Low Oil Pressure + Engine Knocking: Early Warning Signs

Had a similar issue with my Regal two years ago (2019 model, 2.0L). Being somewhat experienced with engine issues, those symptoms instantly worried me because low oil pressure combined with knocking sounds often indicates serious problems. The oil pressure gauge was showing dangerously low readings, and the engine bearings were making that distinctive knocking sound. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a failing oil pump. The pump wasnt delivering proper oil pressure to lubricate the engine components. The repair involved: Complete oil pump replacement, New oil filter (the old one was partially clogged), Fresh oil with correct viscosity, System inspection for metal debris Total cost came to 755 for parts and labor, but catching it early prevented catastrophic engine damage which would have cost much more. Before offering more specific advice, could you share: Engine size and type? Current mileage? When was your last oil change? Did you notice any metal particles in the oil? Any previous oil pressure issues?

Thanks for sharing your experience. Just had my service done at 165136 KM, where they replaced the oil and filter. The knocking started about 2 weeks after that service. After inspecting further, I found a small oil leak near the pressure sensor connection. I am wondering if the oil pressure sensor might be faulty or if the leak is causing the pressure readings to be incorrect. The oil level still shows good on the dipstick, which makes me question if this could be a sensor issue rather than an actual oil pump failure. Would it be worth checking the oil pressure sensor before going for a complete pump replacement? The engine knocking does concern me though, as it seems to get louder when the engine is warm.

Thanks for the additional details. Having gone through a similar situation with my Regal, I should mention that while a faulty sensor or oil leakage could trigger the warning light, the knocking sound is particularly concerning. In my experience, a bad sensor alone would not cause engine knocking. While I initially hoped my issue was just a sensor problem, the combination of warning lights and knocking sounds pointed to genuine oil pressure problems. The oil pump failure in my car started with similar symptoms, normal oil levels but inadequate pressure distribution. A quick diagnostic approach Id suggest: Get the oil pressure tested with a mechanical gauge to verify actual pressure, Check if the knocking sound changes with engine RPM, Inspect the oil leakage area carefully as it could be masking a bigger problem The timing of your symptoms, appearing just after an oil change, raises some questions. When my oil pump failed, the shop found that metal debris had damaged the pump components. Since youre experiencing knocking sounds, there might already be bearing damage from insufficient oil pressure. Given the risk of severe engine damage, I would not rely solely on checking the sensor. The proper oil viscosity and clean oil from your recent service rules out contamination issues, making oil pump failure more likely.

Appreciate the detailed advice. After reading about your experience, I decided not to take any chances. Got it towed to a repair shop this morning since the knocking sound was getting worse. The mechanic will perform a complete oil pressure test with a mechanical gauge to check the actual readings. You were right about not focusing solely on the sensor, the symptoms match too closely with a failing oil pump, especially the connection between low oil pressure and the knocking sounds. The recent oil change with proper oil viscosity rules out many other potential causes. Will update once I get the diagnostic results, but Im preparing myself for potentially needing an oil pump replacement. Better to address it now than risk catastrophic engine damage. The repair cost you mentioned gives me a good baseline for what to expect if it turns out to be the same issue.