WillErickson

Hello all, just wondering if the oil pressure gauge on the RX-8 is a true pressure gauge, or an idiot "on/off" gauge? (I tried the search, but couldn't find any relevant threads).

Will

Nemesis8

iTrader: (3)

It's an idiot light disguised as a gauge.

WillErickson

Thanks, that's what I figured.

Mat

Is it possible to change some kind of sensors to transform it in an actual gauge? Assuming there is actually a sensor connected to it

Gord96BRG

Nope. There is an actual sensor, but it's wired to the ECU, and the ECU controls and drives the gauges. There is no connection between the sensor and the dash. You'd have to reprogram the ECU to get a real variable oil pressure reading.

Regards,
Gordon

Nemesis8

iTrader: (3)

There is a way to do it, I read in the service manual about a port on the filter housing that excepts a device for the techs to check your pressure with a gauge. I also think the aftermarket Mazdaspeed gauge/pod has this very same connection part. I don't have my manual with me, so you might try looking it up, or waiting for someone to chime in here to add to this thread for you. Right guys??

Gord96BRG

No, he asked about converting the existing dash's "gauge" to a real oil pressure gauge, which can only be done by reprogramming the ECU. You're talking about adding a separate, external oil pressure gauge, which can be done as you said.

Regards,
Gordon

Nemesis8

iTrader: (3)

My bad - yep your right. It's still a lovely idiot gauge isn't it..

army_rx8

not just lovly sexy as hell..if i can ever get a damn sensor attachment i'll have a nice sexy (defi bf) oil pressure and temp gauge to go along with my idiot gauges...hehe and the water temp will make it a nice double date:p

Mat

I think this is the thing that annoys me the most about my car (that says alot on how I absolutely love it).

I'm fine with having a car that consumes more oil than others, but I would have gladly spent an extra 100$ (considering the pricetag, it isn't a big deal at all) to not have to check the dipstick "each second fill-up".

MI_FamilyMan

I'm no techie, but even if the gauge wasn't an "idiot" gauge, I think it would still only indicate the oil pressure, which doesn't necessarily translate into your actual oil level. So you would still be checking every second fill-up for safety's sake.

If I'm wrong, someone please correct me...

Mat

You might be right. In that case, I would have liked an oil level gauge Having a car that consumes a fluid that needs regular replenishment warrants a semi-acurate gauge, I think. I guess I'm being too dificult here...

Nemesis8

iTrader: (3)

We need an electronic level transducing dipstick :p

It would only work when the car is sitting level, warmed up, and then rested for awhile so that all the oil drains back to it's proper level to check :D

Mat

How about... about the same thing that's used for fuel gauge?

bureau13

How about an oil level idiot guage? It reads "full," then every second fill-up it drops to "low" whether it needs it or not? :D

jds

Mr. Ed's rx-8

well for some reason today my oil light flashed on and then went off after a couple minutes. its been 2800 miles since my last oil change...kinda worries me but i'll just ask about it tomorrow when i go to find out if my warranty is voided!

Mat

OMG that rocks! I'll take a dozen.

philodox

I have disconnected my oil pressure gauge to put a true oil pressure gauge in, and guess what.. no CEL and the oil pressure meter on the dash still shows pressure

army_rx8

^^ haha tha tis too funny:D

Nemesis8

iTrader: (3)

OK, please explain this one

philodox

I can't explain it.. I'm stumped myself.

therm8

Maybe it's just a "The car is on" idiot gauge :D