Oil pressure light at startup and chime.

[The Beard]

About a week ago I noticed the oil pressure light came on at startup on my 2008 3.8L. Chimed once and then disappeared after about a second. Subsequent startups had no issues. After resting for a few hours, light came on at startup again - same deal, light on for a second and a single chime. Oil level was a bit low and due for a service.

So, did an oil and filter change (Mobile 1 5w30 and Ryco filter) and did the oil change reset. Not sure what oil was used previously as it's the first change I've done since buying the Jeep last year. Still getting the oil pressure light for a second and the chime when I first start the Jeep each day. Can't hear any knocking in the engine or chatter at startup.

Anybody else had this problem? Most of the US forums lean towards an issue with the brand of filter and drain-back issues.

Just worried doing damage.

[Banshee]

Does the filter have anti-drainback? If the filter drains back into the sump, it can often cause this sort of thing. Perhaps a heavier oil? I run Penrite HPR Diesel 5 (5W40) in mine. ('08 3.8L)

Because I can use the same oil in my CBR1100XX!

I found that mine would drink the Mobil 1 5W30, such that I would have to top it up before the next change. No such issue with the Penrite.

If it only happen at startup, it seems to be that it just takes a moment for the pressure to build up. If it starts coming on at other times, I'd begin worrying about the oil pump.

[MightyMouse]

As you've changed the filter it would seem odd to get two in a row with suspect drainback preventers.

You do understand that the major reason such thin oils are specified now days is not to provide engine protection but to scape the last decimal point off the Corporate Average Fuel Economy numbers.

Personally I've never run 5W......... 10W or 15W for me. Its not like its a new technology, highly stressed engine... its an old clunker so give it some decent oil.

[The Beard]

Cheers guys.

I went with the 5w30 based on the manual, no other reason. I guess I'll just keep an eye on the levels and provided the oil light doesn't come on for more than that initial second, I'll leave it until the next change and try a thicker oil with a genuine Mopar filter.