Loss of Oil Pressure

This information applies to 2002-09 vehicles with the following engines:

- 2.0L (LSJ and LNF)

- 2.2L (L61, LAP and LE8)

- 2.4L (LE5 and LAT)

A loss of oil pressure may result in noise coming from the cylinder head. This may be caused by debris clogging the oil feed restrictor in the cylinder head passage. The oil feed hole has a small ID and may clog if excessive RTV or similar gasket or sealer has dislodged and become stuck in this passage. (Fig. 10, B)

Fig. 10

This restrictor is located in the oil feed passage to the cylinder head and cannot be inspected or cleaned without cylinder head removal.

TIP: When RTV or similar sealant is used, do not use excessive amounts that can become dislodged, causing future concerns.

Use a mechanical oil pressure gauge to compare the oil pressure in the block with the oil pressure in the cylinder head. The block can be checked by removing the oil pressure sender or another engine block oil gallery plug. The oil pressure to the cylinder head can be checked by removing one of the oil gallery plugs in the cylinder head. (Fig. 10, A)

TIP: The restrictor is not available separately from the cylinder head.

See Engine Mechanical Specifications in SI for oil pressure specifications.

- Thanks to Jeff Gorenflo