2003 camry engine oil light

[GTS767]

The engine oil light does not illuminate when I turn ignition on prior to engine start. The light used to come on but never comes on now. I have checked the oil switch at the engine and cleaned it for any buildup, it was almost clean. Do not know if it is shorted inside, and why it is giving a closed loop signal, and causing the light not to come, or it could be something else. Maybe I should consider replacing it ??

Any possible causes for the engine oil light not to illuminate on the dash when ignition key is turned to ON other than the engine oil switch
Thanks

[csaxon]

Possibly a burned out bulb. Check your oil pressure.

[GTS767]

I have removed the odometer panel from the dash, and all I can see is the circuit board assy. Are the light bulbs line replaceable units, or is it the whole odometer sonsole that needs replacement.

[jdmccright]

There are usually some small twist-in bulb holders...round with a screwdriver slot in the middle. Slightly larger ones have the little finger grip. Good luck!

[GTS767]

Just called the dealer they tell me that the whole odometer needs to be replaced and they send the new odometer panel to some outfit to recalibrate the mileage. 500$ cost for part.

I will see if I can get to a screw for the light bulb and look deeper for one.
Thanks

[jdmccright]

I did a search and it looks like your cluster uses Type 168 bulbs, wedge base. These fit into twist-lock plastic holders that are basically round with a raised bar for a finger hold...usually green or gray in color. Here are some examples of what they should look like:

http://www.superbrightleds.com/cgi-b...nstrument.html

I find it hard to believe that Toyota would engineer the cluster such that the whole thing would have to be replaced for one bulb. If it were a LED, I'd say maybe, but the ol' filament incandescent style can and do burn out. You might consider replacing them all with more reliable LEDs. Hope this helps!

[GTS767]

Thanks JD for the wealth of information. I have found out over the weekend that the oil sending pressure switch was the problem. Apparently it was contaminated as I believe thick oil. Replaced it and the oil light came on. Not good news from the engine standpoint. The car has 117000 miles on it. Just bought it a month ago. I will do an engine flush this weekend by adding some transmission fluid and change oil more often.

Thanks for all !!

[jdmccright]

I would suggest Seafoam or Marvel Mystery Oil to help redissolve sludge build-up. I have seen nothing to suggest that tranny fluid in the oil will help clean an engine out. But at least you found the real problem...congrats!