Replacement:
SR20DE Oil Pressure Switch

Oil began leaking somewhere from my engine, dripping down onto the right inner CV-joint, splashing around the right side undercarriage while driving, and dripping from various parts while parked. After putting the car on ramps to get a good look, I saw oil coating the electrical connector on the oil pressure sending unit - called an 'oil pressure switch' in Nissan-speak. The solution was replacement.

Purchase the following part:

The following procedure takes less than an hour and can be done alone.

Tools and supplies: ramps or jackstands; 1/2" ratchet; 1-1/6" deep-well socket; white Teflon plumbing tape; old rags.

• Put your car on ramps or jackstands (I used Tru-Cut Ultra Ramps).
• Open the hood so you get some light from above.
• Slide under the car from the front. The oil pressure switch is located on the engine block above the right inner CV-joint.
• Before proceeding, take the opportunity to inspect the lower drivetrain and undercarriage, including all seals, boots, fasteners, and things that can shake loose.
• Using old rags, clean all parts that have been splashed using oil.
• Disconnect the switch electrical harness.
• Remove the switch using the ratchet and socket. Pull toward the rear of the car to untighten.
• Clean the area around the switch hole using an old rag.
• Wrap the threads of the new switch using Teflon plumbing tape, but not too close to the end.
• Thread in the new switch by hand, then twist using the ratchet until 'comfortably' tight.
• Connect the electrical harness.
• Slide back out from under the car and start the engine. Verify that the oil pressure light turns off normally, and allow the engine to run for a couple of minutes before shutting down.
• Slide back under the car to check for leaks.
• Close the hood, lower the car, and you're done!

Rick's SE-Rious Procedures

Original material is the creation of Rick Zotz, 1999, 1998, 1997, and has been contributed to SE-R.net.