Fault code P250C – engine oil level sensor circuit low

Fault code P250C is called “Engine Oil Level Sensor Circuit Low” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.

Technical description and explained code P250C

OBD-II fault code P250C is a generic fault code defined as “low signal in engine oil level sensor circuit”. It is set when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a low voltage in the engine oil level sensor circuit or sensor itself.

Fault code P250C – engine oil level sensor circuit low

The engine oil level gauge is designed to monitor the level so that the proper amount of lubrication is provided to the internal engine components. In most cases, the engine oil level gauge is installed on or inside the engine oil pan.

All major car manufacturers recommend monitoring the level and changing the engine oil at least once a year. Even if the distance traveled is significantly less than recommended.

When the PCM detects a low signal in the engine oil level sensor circuit, code P250C is set and the Check Engine light may illuminate. In some cases the PCM may shut down the engine to prevent damage to internal components.

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P250C has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

  1. The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be written in the memory as a fault).
  2. The low oil pressure indicator light may illuminate.
  3. Oil check message.
  4. Bad engine start, or complete failure to start.

Error P250C related to oil level and pressure is considered serious and is recommended to be corrected as soon as possible. Insufficient or poor lubrication can cause irreversible internal engine damage.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P250C can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

  • Oil level sensor is defective.
  • Oil pressure sensor is dirty or clogged.
  • Oil change interval exceeded.
  • Low engine oil level.
  • High engine oil level.
  • Faulty or damaged wiring.
  • Corroded, damaged, or loose connector.
  • Blown fuse or fusible link.
  • Sometimes faulty PCM module is the cause.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P250C

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P250C:

  1. Read all data and stored error codes, using an OBD-II scan tool.
  2. Clear the codes and check if error code P250C appears again.
  3. Check the level and condition of the engine oil. If necessary, replace the oil along with the filter.
  4. Check connection wiring and connectors and fuses.
  5. Inspect the oil level sensor.
  6. Check the sensor with a digital multimeter, and replace it if necessary.
  7. Pay attention to mechanical wear and tear on the engine. Physically check the oil pressure with a mechanical pressure gauge.

Diagnose and repair of problems

Check that the oil level is at the proper level, that it is not diluted with fuel or coolant, and that it is not of a thick, tarry consistency. If necessary, refill or replace the oil before proceeding with further diagnosis.

Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring to look for damaged, burned, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wires and connectors. If necessary, repair, clear code P250C and re-scan the system to see if the code returns.

Check the wiring with a multimeter

After no visible damage is found, check the oil level sensor for resistance, ground and reference voltage. Compare all readings with those in the manual. If necessary, replace the wiring to make sure all readings are in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Remember to disconnect the oil level sensor from the PCM during the resistance and continuity check to prevent damage to the controller.

Oil pressure check

It is necessary to make sure that the oil pressure is within the range specified by the manufacturer, this can be done by attaching a pressure gauge to the engine. Using a scanner is not recommended because the scanner uses the same information as the PCM.

The PCM and the scan tool may indicate an oil pressure condition that is based on incorrect data.

It may take a few seconds for the gauge to record a reading, but after about ten seconds it should stabilize. Record the reading and compare it to the value in the manual.

Allow the engine to warm up, watching the gauge reading. As the engine warms up, there may be a slight drop in pressure indicated by the pressure gauge. But oil pressure should not drop below the minimum specified value when the engine is at operating temperature.

Oil pressure readings that fall below the acceptable lower limits indicate excessive wear or other mechanical problems inside the engine. In this case, simply replacing the oil quality sensor will not solve the P250C error.

On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently

Fault code P250C can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:

  • Acura
  • Fiat
  • Ford (Transit)
  • Honda
  • Hyundai (Santa Fe, ix35)
  • Kia (Sportage)
  • Volvo

Fault code P250C can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P250A, P250B, P250D, P250E, P250F.

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