Chrysler Oil Warning Lights: Sensor vs Serious Issues

Had the exact same problem on my 2013 Chrysler 300 about six months ago. Have some experience with basic car maintenance but electrical issues are not my strong suit. The engine temperature and oil pressure warnings started appearing intermittently at first, then became constant. The oil gauge readings were also inconsistent. Turns out the temperature sensor wiring harness had worn through, causing faulty connections. Brought it to a workshop where they diagnosed a damaged connector plug going to the oil sensor. They replaced the wiring and cleaned the connection points. Total repair cost was 95€, mainly labor since the issue was just the wiring rather than the sensor itself. Would help to know: Are your oil pressure readings fluctuating or steady? Does the warning appear more when the engine is cold or at operating temperature? Have you noticed any actual performance issues or just the warning lights? Did you get specific error codes you could share? This could save you from unnecessarily replacing the whole sensor unit if its just a connection issue like mine was.

My car has 171765 KM and was last serviced 3 months ago. Thanks for sharing your experience. My oil pressure readings are definitely fluctuating, especially when idling. The warnings typically appear after the engine reaches normal operating temperature, about 10-15 minutes into driving. The error codes point to the oil pressure sensor circuit, but I noticed the engine sensor readings become erratic before the warning lights activate. No performance issues noted yet, just the warning indicators. After reading your response about the wiring harness, I checked the connector at the oil sensor and found some corrosion. Planning to clean the connections first before replacing any parts. The car temperature sensor still seems to work correctly, so hopefully its just a connection issue like yours. Would appreciate any input on recommended contact cleaner products that worked well for sensor connections.

Glad you checked those connections, that was exactly how I diagnosed mine initially. The corrosion you found matches what I dealt with on my Chrysler 300. The fluctuating oil gauge readings at idle are a classic sign of connection issues with the oil pressure sensor circuit. For cleaning sensor connections, I used an electronic contact cleaner spray that worked great, just make sure to let it dry completely before reconnecting. Also check the wiring near the engine sensor for any signs of wear, particularly where it might rub against other components. Since your readings only get erratic after warming up, definitely focus on the connection points first. Heat expansion can make poor connections worse, which explains the timing of your warning lights. This matches the behavior I saw before getting mine fixed. Quick tip: while cleaning the oil sensor connections, might be worth checking other nearby sensors too. The entire wiring harness in that area can be affected by heat and oil exposure over time, especially at your mileage. My mechanic found a few other connections that needed attention while fixing the main issue. If cleaning doesnt resolve it, the connector plug replacement costs significantly less than a new automotive sensor unit, so thats worth trying next before considering full sensor replacement.

Thanks for the advice. After cleaning the connections with electrical contact cleaner, I can confirm the oil pressure readings have stabilized and the warning lights are no longer appearing. The engine temperature readings also seem more consistent now. The total cost for the contact cleaner was 15€, much better than replacing the entire temp sensor assembly. For anyone else having similar issues with their Chrysler 200, definitely check the sensor connections first before assuming the worst. Going to keep monitoring the car diagnostics readings for a few weeks to ensure the fix holds up. Will also have the shop check the rest of the wiring harness during my next service, since several of you mentioned potential wear issues at this mileage. Really appreciate the help in avoiding an unnecessary sensor replacement. Saved both time and money by focusing on the connection issues first.