VW Bora Dashboard Warning Lights Signal Sensor Issues

I had a similar issue with my 1998 VW Golf 1.6, which shares many components with your Bora. Having some experience with basic car maintenance, I first checked the engine oil level manually to rule out actual oil problems. The symptoms matched exactly, unusual warning lights and particularly that persistent oil pressure warning, despite the engine running smoothly. After proper diagnosis at my local workshop, it turned out the oil sensor wiring harness had deteriorated, causing faulty signals to the dashboard. The repair involved replacing the damaged wiring and connector to the oil pressure sensor, costing 95€ including labor. Since the fix, all warning lights disappeared and the oil signal has been working perfectly. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Current oil level reading on the dipstick, Whether the warning lights come on immediately or after driving, If the car maintenance history shows recent oil sensor replacements, Whether you notice any oil spots under the car This information would help determine if you are dealing with the same electrical issue or potentially a different sensor problem. Its important to verify actual oil levels when automotive oil sensors act up, as faulty sensors can mask real issues.

My last service was done 2000km ago and included a full oil change. I just checked the dipstick and oil level is perfect. The warning lights typically appear after about 10 minutes of driving and stay on until I restart the car. No oil spots under the car, and no previous sensor replacements in my maintenance records. Based on the similar symptoms you described and considering the engine oil readings are fine, I suspect its likely the same wiring harness issue. 95€ for the repair sounds reasonable compared to a complete oil sensor replacement. Will get the wiring checked first before considering more expensive fixes. Thanks for sharing your experience with such a specific oil detection problem.

Glad you checked those details, they really confirm we are dealing with the same oil monitoring issue. After fixing mine, I learned these wiring problems are quite common on our engine type after 15-20 years of use. The 10-minute delay before the warnings appear is a classic sign of sensor wiring deterioration. Heat from the engine causes the damaged wiring to act up, sending incorrect signals to the dashboard. The fact that restarting temporarily clears the warnings is another typical symptom of electrical rather than mechanical issues. Quick tip: While having the wiring fixed, ask the mechanic to check the sensor connector for corrosion. In my case, they cleaned the connector contacts which helped ensure a reliable fix. The total repair time was under 2 hours. The 95€ repair has proven very cost-effective, no warning lights or sensor issues in the past 3 years. Much better than replacing the entire oil pressure sensor unit which can cost 3-4 times more. Your engine seems healthy given the proper oil levels and absence of leaks. Addressing this wiring issue promptly will prevent any false readings from masking actual engine oil problems in the future.

Thanks for the detailed feedback on the wiring issue. Sounds like a straightforward fix thats definitely worth trying first. Ive already called my regular mechanic and booked the car in for next week to check the wiring harness and clean those connector contacts you mentioned. The timing of the warning lights in my case matching your experience really helps confirm the diagnosis. Good to know these wiring problems are a common issue on our engines rather than something more serious. Will update once the repair is done, but feeling much more confident now about addressing these oil sensor warnings without spending excessive money on unnecessary parts replacement. The 95€ repair cost is definitely more appealing than the full sensor unit replacement I was initially worried about needing. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your specific repair experience and the technical details that helped identify this as an electrical rather than mechanical problem.