Glossary
The oil pressure created by the oil pump in the engine is an important parameter that says a lot about the engine's condition.
Of course, the pressure depends on the condition of the pump itself and the operation of the oil overpressure valve, but also on the resistance that the oil encounters on its way – the greater the resistance, the greater the pressure. The resistance depends on the viscosity of the oil, which in turn is dependent on the temperature of the oil.
To determine whether the oil pressure in an engine is correct or incorrect, the oil must be of the type and condition recommended by the engine manufacturer and have the correct temperature (90-95°C). In addition, the pressure is measured at a certain speed. Exact information on the pressure in the engine that must be maintained is given in the technical documentation of the car.
On average, gasoline engines at idle should have an oil pressure of about 2 Bar (0.2 MPa).