🔧 Common causes of low engine oil pressure
- Low oil level: The most common cause. The MultiJet II can consume small amounts of oil over time; furthermore, leaks from gaskets or the turbo can cause the level to drop rapidly. Regularly checking the dipstick and topping up with ACEA C2 0W30 or 5W30 oil is essential.
- Faulty oil pump: If the pump can no longer generate the minimum pressure, the oil won't properly reach the bearings, crankshaft, and turbine. This can lead to seizure within minutes.
- Clogged oil filter: Over time, it can fill with carbon residue, limiting flow and causing pressure to drop. It should be replaced at every oil change and never reused.
- Faulty oil pressure sensor: A faulty sensor can cause false alarms. However, before replacing it, the actual pressure should be checked using OBD diagnostics and a pressure gauge.
- Internal engine wear: In engines with more than 150,000 km, excessive play on bushings, piston rings, or internal gaskets can reduce pressure, especially when hot or idling.
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⚠️ Symptoms associated with low oil pressure
- Oil light on: the most immediate warning. Ignoring it can lead to seizure.
- Metallic noises or clicking: Typical of bushings or camshafts that are not receiving lubrication.
- Engine overheating: without proper lubrication, friction increases → risk of breakdown.
- Reduced performance: the control unit can limit power (recovery mode) to protect the engine.
🛠️ Recommended solutions and interventions
1. Check and top up the oil
Always check the level when the engine is cold and on level ground. Top up with oil that complies with the Fiat specifications indicated in the owner's manual.
- If specification 9.55535-S1 is required → use 5W30 ACEA C2 oil .
- If specification 9.55535-GS1 or 9.55535-DS1 is required → use 0W30 ACEA C2 oil .
Adhering to these specifications is essential to ensure proper lubrication , turbocharger protection , and warranty validity. Improper oil can cause premature wear and DPF/FAP blockages.
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🛒 Buy now at Autoricambi Tritella2. Filter maintenance
Replace the oil filter at every oil change: an inexpensive component that protects an engine worth thousands of euros.
3. Check the oil pump
If abnormal pressure values are detected, the pump must be disassembled and replaced. In MultiJet II engines, this is one of the most common causes of serious failures.
4. Pressure sensor diagnosis
If the light appears without any other symptoms, perform an OBD diagnostic. Often, simply replacing the sensor is sufficient.
5. Check worn components
In high-mileage engines, a mechanic must check the bushings, crankshaft, gaskets and mechanical clearances.
🧭 Preventive maintenance
- Oil change every 15,000 km or 12 months (even if the manual indicates longer intervals).
- Use high quality OEM or equivalent oils and filters.
- Periodically check oil pressure via OBD and temperature.
- Carry out maintenance in specialized workshops for common rail diesel engines.
🏁 Conclusion
The low engine oil pressure warning light on the Fiat 500 1.3 MultiJet II should never be ignored. Prompt intervention, with accurate diagnosis and targeted maintenance, can save the engine and prevent high repair or replacement costs.
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1 comment
Antonio Ferri
Articolo davvero prezioso 🙌. Ho una 500 1.3 Multijet con 160.000 km e mi è capitata proprio la spia olio accesa a caldo al minimo. In officina hanno trovato il filtro olio praticamente intasato perché non era stato cambiato al tagliando precedente 😓. Dopo sostituzione filtro e olio corretto 0W30 ACEA C2 il problema è sparito. Confermo che controllare regolarmente l’olio e rispettare le specifiche fa davvero la differenza per la vita del motore. Grazie Gianni, guida chiara e utilissima!