VW Transporter Oil Pressure Crisis: Bearing Noise Alert

Having dealt with something very similar on my 2016 VW Caddy last year, I understand your concern. I have some experience working on VWs and basic maintenance, but leave major repairs to professionals. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, low oil pressure warning and concerning engine noise. Initially, I hoped it was just a faulty oil pressure sensor, but the workshop diagnostic revealed a failing oil pump that was causing insufficient oil pressure throughout the engine. The complete repair involved: Full diagnostic check, Oil pump replacement, New engine oil and filter, Checking engine bearings for damage Total cost was 755€ for parts and labor. The workshop completed everything in 2 days. To help provide more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your Transporter, When was the last oil change performed, Any previous engine work or repairs, Does the noise change with engine RPM, Are there any other warning lights active This information would help determine if you are facing a similar oil pump failure or possibly a different issue that needs attention before causing major engine damage. Recommend getting it checked quickly, as running with low oil pressure can severely damage engine bearings and other components.

Last oil change was 3 months ago at 70000km. The engine noise definitely increases with RPM and gets louder under load. No other warning lights besides the oil pressure warning. These oil pressure problems are concerning since VW workshops often quote varying repair costs. My local shop initially suggested replacing just the oil pressure sensor for 180€, but given the symptoms, I worry about deeper issues like oil pump failure. Had the car properly serviced and maintained according to schedule since new. Never experienced engine issues before this started happening. Driving it any further seems risky given the bearing noise getting progressively worse over the past week. Would be great to hear what diagnostic steps your workshop took before concluding it was the pump. Did they test actual oil pressure readings first?

Thanks for the additional details about your Transporter. In my case with the Caddy, the workshop followed a systematic diagnostic approach before concluding it was the oil pump: First, they connected diagnostic equipment to verify the oil pressure sensor readings were accurate. They also performed a mechanical oil pressure test using dedicated testing equipment, which confirmed genuinely low pressure readings across different RPM ranges. The oil filter was inspected and found partially clogged with metal particles, a clear sign of engine bearing wear from insufficient lubrication. This matched the increasing noise under load you are also experiencing. The bearing noise in my case also got progressively worse, especially when warm and under load. Once they removed the oil pan, they found significant wear on main bearings due to the failing pump not maintaining proper oil pressure. Given your symptoms mirror mine so closely, including the RPM-dependent noise, I strongly recommend having proper pressure testing done rather than just replacing the sensor. The 180€ sensor replacement could end up being a waste if the underlying issue is the pump or bearing damage from oil pressure problems. In total, my workshop spent about 4 hours on diagnosis and testing before starting repairs. The thorough approach helped identify the full scope of necessary work and prevented further engine damage from oil leakage or complete bearing failure.

Thanks for sharing those diagnostic details. Your experience with the Caddy helps put my Transporter issues in perspective. The bearing noise and oil pressure problems do sound nearly identical. Given the risk of further engine damage, I will insist on proper pressure testing before accepting a simple sensor replacement. From what you describe, the progression of symptoms strongly suggests an oil pump failure rather than just a sensor issue. I will contact my workshop tomorrow to schedule comprehensive diagnostic testing, including mechanical oil pressure measurements. The metal particles you mentioned in your oil filter especially concern me, as this could indicate my engine bearings are already suffering from poor lubrication. Best to address this quickly before experiencing complete oil pump failure or catastrophic engine bearing damage. While the potential repair cost around 750€ is significant, it beats risking major engine repairs from continued low oil pressure operation. Will update once I get proper diagnostic results and know the full extent of necessary repairs.