FAQ
TL;DR: Intermittent idle oil pressure drop (from 2.6 to 1.5 bar) was traced to the oil pan level/temperature sensor; “it will drop to 1.5.” [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16827046]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Renault Magnum DXi13 owners diagnose low idle oil pressure without replacing good parts.
Quick Facts
- Vehicle context: Renault Magnum 480EEV (2013) with ~500,000 km when symptoms appeared. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16827046]
- Reported idle pressure behavior: typical 2.6 bar, episodic dips to 1.5 bar. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16827046]
- Oil in use during issue: Valvoline 15W‑40 (not the root cause here). [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16827046]
- Final fix: replace the oil level and temperature sensor in the oil pan. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #18636763]
- Other checks performed: sump inspection, piston cooling valve swap, filter-base “mushroom” valve verified OK. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16891334]
What’s the most common fix for idle-only low oil pressure on a 2013 Magnum 480EEV (DXi13)?
Replace the oil level and temperature sensor in the oil pan. The owner reported pressure returned to normal immediately after this replacement, following other unsuccessful swaps. “After replacement, the pressure returned to normal.” [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #18636763]
Which symptoms were observed before the fix?
At warm idle, the gauge showed about 2.6 bar normally, but sometimes dipped to around 1.5 bar. Driving returned readings to normal. These intermittent dips triggered investigation and part replacements before the root cause was found. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16827046]
Does replacing the pressure sensors fix this particular issue?
Not in this case. The owner replaced the pressure sensor on the oil filters and the one by the compressor with no improvement. That pointed diagnosis away from those sensors toward the pan sensor and other components. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16826836]
What mileage and oil were involved when the problem appeared?
The truck had roughly 500,000 km and ran Valvoline 15W-40. The oil choice was consistent across the fleet and was not the cause here, based on subsequent findings and the final fix. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16827046]
What quick checks should I do before buying parts?
Inspect drained oil for metallic filings and check for obvious sump damage. Confirm filter brand and condition. These checks can reveal mechanical wear or a collapsed filter before chasing electrical faults. “See if there is nothing strange in it (filings).” [Elektroda, igorek83, post #16857242]
What is the oil filter base ‘mushroom’ valve?
It’s a spring-loaded valve in the filter base that can affect pressure behavior. On this truck it was located under a hex, inspected, and deemed OK. If stuck, it could alter readings at idle. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16891334]
How do I replace the oil level/temperature sensor in the pan?
- Drain engine oil and remove the sump access as needed.
- Disconnect the sensor connector and unbolt the sensor from the pan.
- Install the new sensor with a fresh seal, reconnect, and refill oil. Pressure normalized after this on the reported truck. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #18636763]
Could a wrong technical diagram mislead my diagnosis?
Yes. A diagram shared initially was for DXi11 E3/E4, but the affected truck uses a DXi13. Using the wrong schematic can send you after non-existent parts or ports. “This basis is from DXI 11… author’s DXi 13 engine.” [Elektroda, Cobrat, post #17092760]
Does the 2013 oil filter base have extra solenoid valves?
Yes. A contributor noted two solenoid valves on that year’s base, which differs from earlier layouts. Confirm your exact engine and year before testing or ordering parts. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17092614]
What other parts were swapped before the final fix?
The sump was removed and checked, the piston cooling valve was replaced due to dampness, and the filter-base valve was verified. None resolved the intermittent idle pressure dips. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #16891334]
Is 1.5 bar at idle always a sign of mechanical failure?
No. Here, intermittent 1.5 bar at idle wasn’t due to bearings or pump failure. Electrical sensing from the pan sensor caused misleading readings, and replacing it normalized pressure. [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #18636763]
What’s a quick rule of thumb from this case?
If idle pressure dips are intermittent and pressure sensors read fine under load, prioritize the pan-mounted oil level/temperature sensor before major mechanical work. “Replace the oil level and temperature sensor.” [Elektroda, andrzej.andrzej, post #18636763]
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