P250B Engine Oil Level Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Engine Oil Level Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Honda, Acura, Volvo, Fiat, Kia, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
OBD-II trouble code P250B and related codes P250A, P250C, P250D, P250E, and P250F are associated with the engine oil level sensor circuit. This circuit is also known as the oil level safety circuit.
The purpose of the engine oil level sensor circuit is to monitor the engine oil level and oil pressure to ensure the internal engine components are receiving the appropriate amount of lubrication. The engine oil level sensor is mounted to or inside the engine oil pan in most circumstances and the exact location is vehicle specific. This process incorporates various components to accomplish based on the configuration of the oil supply system.
When the PCM detects out of range voltage or resistance within the engine oil level sensor circuit or a performance problem, code P250B will be set and the check engine light, service engine soon light or both may be illuminated. In some circumstances, the PCM may shut the engine down to prevent internal engine component damage.
An oil level sensor:
What is the severity of this DTC?
The severity of this code is severe and requires immediate attention. Insufficient lubrication or oil pressure can cause permanent damage to internal engine components very rapidly.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P250B trouble code may include:
Engine may not start Low oil pressure gauge reading Service engine soon light illuminated Check engine light illuminatedWhat are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P250B code may include:
Defective oil level sensor Dirty or clogged oil pressure sensor Low engine oil level Engine oil level too high Faulty or damaged wiring Corroded, damaged or loose connector Defective fuse or fuse-able link (If applicable) Defective PCMWhat are some P250B troubleshooting steps?
The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB's) for the specific vehicle by year, model and power plant. In some circumstances, this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.
The second step is to check the condition of the engine oil and confirm it is serviced to the appropriate level. Then locate all components associated with the engine oil level sensor circuit and look for obvious physical damage. Based on the specific vehicle, this circuit may incorporate several components including the oil pressure sensor, switches, fault indicators, an oil pressure gauge and the PCM. Perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn spots. Next is to check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion and damaged pins. This process must include all wiring connectors and connections to all components including the PCM. Consult the specific tech data for the vehicle to verify the configuration of the oil level safety circuit and see if a fuse or fuse-able link is incorporated into the circuit.
Advanced Steps
The advanced steps become very vehicle specific and require the appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multi meter and the specific technical references for the vehicle. In this situation, an oil pressure gauge may facilitate the troubleshooting process.
Voltage Checks
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