Can I drive with code P0520?

⚠️ Yes but drive directly to a shop — limit distance

How much does it cost to fix code P0520?

Repair costs typically range from $80 to $400 depending on the root cause, vehicle make/model, and whether you use a dealer or independent shop.

OBD2 Code P0520: Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Reviewed by ASE Certified Mechanics · Last updated September 01, 2026

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Quick Answer

P0520 = Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction
Severity: Check Soon · System: Powertrain · ⚠️ Drive to shop soon

The P0520 code means Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction. Estimated repair cost: $80 – $400.

✅ OK TO DRIVE (short term). Have it diagnosed at your next convenience. Monitor for new symptoms.

📋 Diagnostic Reference

OBD2 Code	`P0520`
Category	Powertrain
Severity	Check Soon
Repair Cost	$80 – $400
Can You Drive?	⚠️ Yes but drive directly to a shop — limit distance

🔍 Symptoms

Check Engine Light
oil pressure gauge erratic or zero reading

⚠️ Most Likely Causes (in order of probability)

Failed oil pressure sensor
damaged wiring
low oil level
faulty oil pump

🛠️ Diagnostic Procedure

Step 1: Check oil level first

Check oil level first

Step 2: Test oil pressure with mechanical gauge — verify actual pressure

Test oil pressure with mechanical gauge — verify actual pressure

Step 3: Test sensor with multimeter.

Test sensor with multimeter.

🔧 DIY Diagnosis: Step-by-Step

Follow this diagnostic flow for P0520 (Vehicle Speed, Idle Control & Electrical Systems). Start at Step 1 and work your way down — the most likely fixes are listed first.

Check the battery voltage with a multimeter — should be 12.4V+ with engine off, 13.8–14.4V with engine running
Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and clean if needed — poor connections cause many electrical codes
For idle codes (P0505, P0507): remove and clean the idle air control valve with throttle body cleaner
For speed sensor codes (P0500): check the VSS connector and wiring at the transmission — they're exposed to heat and debris
For oil pressure codes (P0520): verify actual oil pressure with a mechanical gauge before replacing the sensor
For voltage codes (P0562): test alternator output and check the serpentine belt for proper tension

📊 Common Causes & Repair Costs

For P0520, here are the most likely root causes ranked by how often mechanics see them, plus typical repair costs for each.

Rank	Cause	Frequency	Typical Cost
#1	Faulty sensor (VSS, oil pressure, IAC)	40%	—
#2	Corroded or loose battery/ground connections	20%	—
#3	Wiring damage or poor ground	15%	—
#4	Weak battery or failing alternator	15%	—
#5	Carbon buildup in idle air control passage	10%	—

Category Repair Cost Range (Vehicle Speed, Idle Control & Electrical Systems)

DIY / Best Case:	$15
Independent Shop:	$200
Dealer / Worst Case:	$700

Costs include parts + labor. Actual price varies by make, model, and your location.

⚠️ Address Soon

Can you drive? Limited — Speed sensor issues may affect transmission shifting and speedometer. Idle control issues cause stalling. Low voltage can cause multiple system failures. Drive carefully to a shop.

ASE Certified Review: This diagnostic guide has been reviewed by an ASE-certified master technician. Diagnostic steps follow industry best practices per SAE J1979 and OEM service procedures. Always verify with a qualified mechanic before performing repairs.

Technician's Notes: If actual oil pressure is normal, replace the sensor. If pressure is low, stop driving.

Estimated Repair Cost

Typical repair: $80–$400 (Parts + Labor) · Costs vary by make/model and location

🔌 Don't Pay $150 for a Code Read — Diagnose It Yourself

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Data Sources: Diagnostic information compiled from SAE J1979 OBD2 standards, OEM service manuals, and ASE master technician field experience. Reviewed for technical accuracy. Repair cost ranges are national estimates and vary by location. Always verify with a qualified mechanic.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a P05xx code?

It depends on the specific code. Low voltage (P0562) can cause stalling or electrical failures — drive carefully. VSS codes (P0500) may affect speedometer and shifting. Idle codes (P0505, P0507) can cause stalling at stoplights. Have it checked within a few days.

How much does it cost to fix a P05xx code?

Battery terminal cleaning: free or $10. A new sensor is typically $30–$150 plus $75–$150 labor. Alternator replacement: $300–$700. Idle air control valve: $80–$300.

Can a bad battery cause a P05xx code?

Absolutely. A weak battery or poor connections cause low system voltage, which can trigger P0562 and other electrical codes. Always test the battery and charging system first — it's the simplest and cheapest fix.

My speedometer stopped working with P0500 — is it safe to drive?

The car is mechanically safe to drive, but you won't know your speed, which is dangerous and illegal. The transmission may also shift erratically. Get it fixed before driving on public roads.

Will cleaning the idle air control valve fix P0505/P0507?

Often yes — carbon buildup is the most common cause. Remove the valve, spray with throttle body cleaner, and scrub with a soft brush. If cleaning doesn't help, the valve may need replacement ($80–$300).