oil level warning light

[dian]

When I start my lancia thema ie turbo 8V red checklight goes on and the oil warning light in the check panel goes on. After 2-3 breaking everything is OK. What is the cause and solution?

[kassus]

you should chek the oil level (im sure you did it ).

the check system on thema has a memory. in this way if you turn on your engine in a hill the level is low and you will see the warning light until the next time you turn on

best regads

[dian]

Oil level is MAX on the stick. There is no warning light after 5-10 minutes driving. Then, if I turn the car off, and then turn it on (while the car is hot or warm; downhill, uphill or flat) everythin is OK. In the morning the light is on, next 5-10 minutes of driving. So, my thema is 1986 (S1) and I am not sure about memory in the check panel. Shoud I disconnect batery to reset check panel? Where is oil level sensor located?

Thanks

[Leo Capaldi]

Hello Dian,
The way that the oil level sensor works is as Kassus says - it stays on until the next time the ignition is switched off.
The ususal problem with the oil light is that the sensor unit burns out - it is fitted in the crankcase just above the sump joint beside the crankshaft pulley and towards the front of the car - not easy to get to. The sensor can be replaced by a 12 ohm resistor - DO NOT SHORT THE CONNECTIONS TOGETHER that will damage the check panel.
However your symptoms sound like a faulty earth connection - the check panel is earthed at a multi-way connector behind the right hand headlamp. Give the connections a "shoogle" as we say in Scotland (shake them up a bit).

Leo

[Dian]

Leo, you were right. I have just replaced the sensor unit because it burned out. I payed 20 euros.

Best regards,
Dian