Oil Pressure Gauge erratic

[lubben3]

While driving yesterday, my pressure gauge suddenly went to 0. The car seemed to be working fine. Got a check gauges message. After a couple of minutes, indicator started climbing to about 60 and then went back down to around 38. My shop says I need an Oil Pressure Gauge Switch which is thirty some dollars from Advance with discount. Does this seem right? Rockauto doesn't have the part at all and Advance makes a Driveworks for 37, a BWD for 42, and a Wells for 72. Advice?

[harofreak00]

Yes, super common problem. Replace the switch next time you do an oil change. The sensor is directly above the oil filter and some oil will come out when you remove it.

FYI, Rockauto does carry them, they have 4 options. Electrical-Switch & Relay -> Oil Pressure Sender / Switch

[lubben3]

Thanks. But I still can't see it in RockAuto. Looked under Electrical Switch and Relay but the only thing under oil pressure is the oil pressure switch socket tool.

[dougtoth]

I buy my switches from Auto Zone.
They have a life time guaranty.
I have replaced 3 or 4 in the last 6-8 years on my two Bonnevilles.
I just take in the defective one and they give me a new one.
This is a common problem on these cars.
I use a deep 27mm socket to take it off.

[lubben3]

Thanks. Will do.

[harofreak00]

Pontiac -> 2001 -> Bonneville -> 3.8L V6 -> Electrical-Switch & Relay -> Oil Pressure Sender/Switch

If you can't figure out how to get there on RockAuto, just search the part numbers