How to Replace the Oil Pressure Sensor on a 1997 Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 began its production life in Japan in 1994, but was brought to the U.S. during the 1996 model year. The 1997 RAV4 had a 2.0-liter, in-line four-cylinder engine that created 120 horsepower and 130 foot-pounds of torque. The 2.0-liter engine required a minimum of 4.3 psi of oil pressure at idle, and 36 to 71 psi at 3,000 rpm. A small sensor, known as an oil pressure switch, kept a close monitor on the oil pressure and alerted the driver of excessive or low oil pressure via a light on the dashboard. Replacing a failed oil pressure sensor on the 1997 RAV4 is extremely important, as it is the only way to know whether the engine is receiving the oil pressure it needs.

Instructions

1

Locate the oil pressure switch on the driver's side of the cylinder head, near the front of the engine compartment. Press the locking button on the wiring harness and unplug the harness from the oil pressure switch.

2

Remove the old oil pressure switch, using a ratchet and socket -- a few drops of oil may leak from the hole where the oil pressure sensor was installed; clean off the oil with a clean, lint-free cloth.

3

Apply a thin coat of thread sealer to the new oil pressure switch, if it is not already coated, and allow the coating to dry. Install the oil pressure switch and tighten it to 10 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and socket.

4

Plug the wiring harness back into the oil pressure sender. Listen for the harness to click into place.