How to Fix P0521, P0522, P0523 Trouble Codes on GM V8 Engines

What are P0521, P0522 and P0523 code definitions?

P0521- Engine oil pressure sensor performance
P0522- Engine oil pressure sensor circuit low voltage
P0523- Engine oil pressure sensor circuit high voltage

What Does P0521, P0522 and P0523 Mean?

Trouble codes P0521, P0522, and P0523 set when the engine control module (ECM) detects the engine oil pressure sensor signal is out of the normal operating range. The oil pressure sensor on GM V8 engines produces a normal signal of approximately 1-4 volts with a rise of voltage representing a rise in oil pressure. If the signal becomes stuck high (greater than 4.5 volts), stuck low (less than .5 volts) or doesn't change with engine speed, the ECM will set a trouble code

What are the symptoms of P0521, P0522, P0523?

Check engine light
Low oil pressure warning message
Inoperative oil pressure gauge

What are the common causes of GM trouble codes P0521, P0522, P0523?

Engine oil pressure sensor: A faulty oil pressure sensor is the most common cause of P0521, P0522, P0523 trouble codes on GM V8 engines. A bad oil pressure sensor will have an inaccurate or missing signal causing the ECM to set a trouble code
(How to Test a GM oil pressure sensor)
Engine oil pressure sensor screen: Many GM V8 engines utilize a screen or filter underneath the oil pressure senor. If this screen becomes clogged or restricted, it will cause skewed oil pressure reading that may result in trouble code P0521

Tip : You must remove the oil pressure senor to inspect the screen for restrictions (how to replace GM oil pressure sensor)
Engine oil pressure sensor connector: GM V8 oil pressure sensors are three wire sensors that include a 5-volts reference, signal, and ground wire. An issue with any of these wires will result in a non-functioning oil pressure sensor and a P0521, P0522, or P0523 trouble code. (How to Test a GM oil pressure sensor) -Low mechanical oil pressure: If the engine has a mechanical oil pressure problem it will directly affect the reading from the oil pressure sensor. This can cause the ECM to incorrectly set an oil pressure sensor trouble code, resulting in a check engine light. (How to Test a GM oil pressure sensor)

Tip : Low oil pressure is uncommon on a properly maintained engine. If you're unable to verify oil pressure, the oil is full and the engine isn't making unusual noise, there's a high probability your problem is a faulty oil pressure sensor

Can I still drive my car with a P0521, P0522, or P0523 code set?

It is not recommended. The engine oil pressure sensor is responsible for monitoring engine oil pressure and alerting the driver of any issues. A malfunction could result in running an engine with inadequate lubrication resulting in internal engine damage.