MINI Seal Ring - Reinz 12617546239

Product Information

The engine oil pressure switch detects oil pressure and sends a signal to the ECU, most specifically for use in the dashboard warning light (“genie lamp”). This ensures that if there is a sudden loss of oil pressure, then the driver is warned and can safely come to a stop. Without oil pressure, the engine can catastrophically fail, so if you are diagnosing a suspected oil pressure problem, the oil pressure switch should be inspected. Oil pressure switches differ from oil pressure sensors which output a range, rather than just on or off. Modern cars may use a sensor instead of a switch to get additional oil pressure data for the ECU to use.

The switch itself is usually a small threaded metal body that screws into an oil passageway in the block, head, or occasionally the oil filter housing. A very small hole on the end allows ingress of engine oil, and inside the switch, there is a diaphragm and an electrical component. When oil pressure is pressed on the diaphragm, contact is made, and the electrical circuit is completed.

Engine oil pressure switches are very simple, so when they fail the issue generally isn’t with the pressure sensing mechanism itself. Rather, faults with this switch are more common with the electrical connector and its terminals, as well as oil leaks. If your oil light stays on when starting the engine, and nothing else has changed, inspect the wiring to the sensor before assuming the worst. Engine oil pressure switches are usually designed to be installed with the socket going over the electrical connector, so keep in mind the size socket you may need when replacing your oil pressure switch.

• Electrical connector failure: The engine oil pressure switch is subjected to high heat and chemical conditions, which can degrade the plastic and wear the terminals. If the electrical connector is broken or loose, the oil warning light may not extinguish.
• Internal failure: While not as common, if the internal diagram is sticky or may have been out of a car for a long period as a used part, the reading might be sluggish or stuck.
• External oil leaks: It is very common for an oil pressure sensor to leak oil after many years and miles. Sometimes the oil sealing ring is captured on the threads so if an external oil leak occurs the whole switch should be replaced.
• Internal oil leaks: It’s possible for an internal oil leak to make it past the electrical seals and into the electrical connector. It’s important to catch a failure like this early, to avoid oil from wicking up into the vehicle harness.

About Reinz

Founded by Hugo Reinz in 1920, Reinz has been known for the manufacturing of Automotive gaskets for over 90 years. For almost a century Reinz has provided gaskets and sealing products for both auto manufacturers and as an aftermarket solution for car enthusiasts. Their full catalog features over 15,000 different products, providing a great selection for excellent value. Way back in 1962 Reinz became the (OEM) original equipment manufacturer for the prestigious Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen car companies, a strong partnership that still continues to this day. The company continues to innovate and stay well ahead of the curve. For example, Reinz stopped using asbestos in their gaskets 12 years before it was banned in Germany in 1993. Reinz performs because every part they manufacture meets OEM standards – meaning you're getting great value that you can believe in. Many brands and models use sealing solutions from Reinz. In 1993 Reinx became a partner to the American company, Dana, to form the largest manufactures of components for automobile and commercial vehicles. The Gasket segment of Dana was Victor at the time ahich was then merged with Reinz to form the brand name of "Victor Reinz".