Ford Taurus Engine Oil Pressure Switch: A Guide for the 2013-2019 Generation
That flickering oil light on your 2013-2019 Taurus might be an easy fix.
- A faulty oil pressure switch is a common, inexpensive, and easy-to-fix issue for 2013-2019 Taurus models.
- Always stop the vehicle immediately if the oil pressure light comes on to verify the oil level before assuming the sensor is bad.
- Using the OEM Motorcraft replacement part (SW-8368 for 3.5L, SW-6900 for 2.0L) is highly recommended to ensure reliability.
- This is a beginner-friendly DIY repair that can be completed in under an hour with basic tools.
Is Your Taurus Oil Light On? Here's What It Means
Seeing the low oil pressure warning light on the dashboard of your 2013-2019 Ford Taurus can be alarming. While it can indicate a serious problem like low oil level or a failing oil pump, it's often caused by a faulty engine oil pressure switch. This is a common failure point, and replacing the switch is often the first, most affordable step in diagnosing the issue.
🎬 Watch: How one owner fixed the low oil pressure warning.Stop Driving Immediately
If your oil pressure light comes on, you should stop the engine as soon as it is safe to do so. First, check your oil level. If the level is correct, the problem could be the switch or a more serious internal engine issue. Continuing to drive could lead to severe engine damage if the problem is not a faulty sensor.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Oil Pressure Switch
- Oil Pressure Light On: The most common symptom is the oil pressure warning light staying on, even when the engine oil level is correct.
- Flickering Oil Light: The light may flicker or come on intermittently, especially when the engine is idling or at a stop.
- Incorrect Gauge Reading: If your Taurus has an oil pressure gauge, it might read zero, max out, or behave erratically.
- Check Engine Light: A faulty switch can trigger the Check Engine Light and store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), most commonly P0520. 🎬 See this guide on troubleshooting the P0520 sensor circuit code.
- Oil Leaks: The switch itself can fail and leak oil. You might see oil on the sensor, its electrical connector, or on the ground below.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Oil Pressure Switch
When choosing a replacement part, quality matters. Here’s a breakdown of the available brands for your Taurus.
Brand Quality Tiers
Tier 1: OEM (Motorcraft)
Motorcraft is Ford's official parts brand, so this is the original equipment your car was built with. For a critical sensor like this, choosing the OEM part guarantees perfect fit, function, and durability. Forum users and mechanics often recommend sticking with the OEM part to avoid issues. The latest revised part number for the 3.5L engine is SW-8368.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket (Hella, Standard Ignition)
Brands like Hella and Standard Ignition (also known as SMP) are well-known aftermarket manufacturers that produce a wide range of parts. Hella is a German company known for supplying parts to many European automakers. Standard produces their switches in the USA and emphasizes their quality control process. While these are generally reliable options, some users have reported premature failures with aftermarket sensors, making Motorcraft a safer bet.
Tier 3: Economy / Unknown Brands (True Tech)
Searches for the brand "True Tech" primarily show results for automotive repair shops, not a parts manufacturer. This suggests it may be a private label or store brand. For a low-cost but critical sensor, it is generally not recommended to use a brand with no established reputation for quality. The small cost savings are not worth the risk of the part failing and potentially masking a real oil pressure problem.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) Part | $20 - $70 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $7 - $32 |
| Shop Labor Cost | $90 - $140 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $150 - $220 |
Pro Tip: Check for Leaks
The oil pressure switch on the 3.5L and 2.0L engines is located right above the hot catalytic converter. If the old switch is leaking oil, it will drip onto the hot exhaust, creating a burning smell and a fire hazard. This makes replacing a leaking switch an urgent safety repair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this a difficult DIY job?
No, this is a great job for a beginner. The switch is easy to access on most Taurus engines, located at the front of the engine, right above the oil filter. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step walkthrough for replacing the oil pressure switch. The job typically takes less than an hour.
What tools do I need to replace it?
You'll need basic hand tools. The most important is a deep socket to fit the switch, which is often a 13/16" or 21mm socket. A ratchet with an extension will help. You should also have a drain pan ready, as a small amount of oil will spill out when you remove the old switch.
Should I use thread sealant on the new switch?
Most new switches, including Motorcraft, come with thread sealant already applied. If your new switch does not have sealant on the threads, it is a good idea to apply a small amount of automotive-grade thread sealant to prevent leaks. Do not use Teflon tape.
The new switch didn't fix the light. What now?
If a new, quality switch doesn't solve the problem, your vehicle may have a real oil pressure issue. This could be a problem with the wiring to the sensor, a clogged oil pickup tube, or a failing oil pump. At this point, you should have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional mechanic who can perform a mechanical oil pressure test.
Are there any recalls for this issue?
There are no specific recalls for the engine oil pressure *switch* on the 2013-2019 Ford Taurus. There have been recalls for other Ford models related to internal components that cause a loss of oil pressure, but these do not apply to the Taurus of this generation.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SW-8368 (For 3.5L V6 & 3.5L EcoBoost V6) SW-6900 (For 2.0L EcoBoost I4)
Location: Front of engine block, typically above the oil filter. Required Socket: Deep 13/16" (21mm).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Taurus:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Taurus Oil Light On? Here's What It Means
- Stop Driving Immediately
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Oil Pressure Switch
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Oil Pressure Switch
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Pro Tip: Check for Leaks
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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