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Oil Temperature Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
Oil Temperature Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your oil temperature sensor replacement? Use Jerry’s GarageGuard to get fair cost estimate for your oil temperature sensor replacement.
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John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor
What's on this page?
- How much does it cost to replace an oil temperature sensor?
- Where can I get my oil temperature sensor replaced?
- How will a mechanic replace my oil temperature sensor?
- What happens if I don’t replace my oil temperature sensor?
- What is an oil temperature sensor?
- Can I replace my oil temperature sensor myself?
- FAQs
- Meet Our Experts
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How much does it cost to replace an oil temperature sensor?
The average total cost of an oil temperature sensor replacement is $30-$160+. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.
How long does it take to replace an oil temperature sensor? You can expect to wait around 30 minutes to 1 hour for a certified mechanic to complete the job. Your mechanic will perform a preliminary inspection, diagnose the issue, then follow through with the full replacement.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for my oil temperature sensor replacement and how much do those parts cost?
You can check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for precise parts, but the main components of the replacement include the following:
- Oil temperature sensor: The oil temperature sensor measures your engine oil temperature, and it is the main component of this replacement. A new oil temperature sensor will cost you anywhere from $20 to $70.
- Thread sealant: Thread sealant is used to seal your oil temperature sensor. Sealant is often included for parts that require it, but you can also purchase it for around $10.
You can buy oil temperature sensor parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. Three brands we recommend for oil temperature sensor parts are ACDelco, Bosch, and Standard Motor Products. For thread sealant, we recommend Permatex, Loctite, and RectorSeal. Keep in mind that the best parts and brands for your replacement will vary based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?
When it comes to a new oil temperature sensor, the choice between OEM or aftermarket parts depends on what you want for your vehicle. OEM parts are typically more expensive, but they are more reliable and often come with a warranty. On the other hand, aftermarket parts will help you save money and still get the job done, but you might experience issues sooner than with OEM parts.
Before purchasing any parts, consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to ensure you choose parts compatible with your vehicle.
Where can I buy parts for my oil temperature sensor replacement?
You can find oil temperature sensors replacement parts at the following:
- The dealership/manufacturer: OEM parts only
- Auto body shops and auto parts shops (AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts): OEM or aftermarket parts
- Online retailers (Amazon, RockAuto): Aftermarket parts only
Where can I get my oil temperature sensor replaced?
You’re gonna need a mechanic to handle your oil temperature sensor replacement, but finding the best auto shop can be tough. Luckily, Jerry's
GarageGuard™
will do the work for you by comparing prices from over 2,500 vetted auto repair shops.Jerry's GarageGuard™ will provide fair price estimates* based on shops’ actual hourly labor rates and show you real reviews from shop customers. With Jerry's GarageGuard™, you can even find out whether or not diagnostic fees will be on your repair bill.
Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare automotive repair quotes in your area.
199 Reviews
Expressway Auto
2628 Mistletoe Dr, North Pole, AK
Oil Temperature Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$49
(Parts - $20, Labor - $29)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$138.95119 Reviews
Fairway Tire Lube and Auto
5221 Sunset Rd, Charlotte, NC
Oil Temperature Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$41
(Parts - $20, Labor - $21)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$99.99114 Reviews
Dunn Tire - Mattydale #20
2803 Brewerton Rd, Syracuse, NY
Oil Temperature Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$45
(Parts - $20, Labor - $25)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$109.99115 Reviews
University Tire & Auto Service
2908 Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Oil Temperature Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$58
(Parts - $20, Labor - $38)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$180How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How will a mechanic replace my oil temperature sensor?
During your vehicle’s oil temperature sensor replacement, your mechanic will follow these general steps:
- Disconnect the electrical connector: Your mechanic will begin by disconnecting the electrical connector from the oil temperature sensor and moving it aside.
- Remove the oil temperature sensor: Your mechanic will then remove the faulty oil temperature sensor from your vehicle using a wrench or socket.
- Install a new oil temperature sensor: After applying thread sealant to the new sensor if necessary, your mechanic will insert the new oil temperature sensor.
- Reconnect the electrical connector: Your mechanic will reconnect the electrical connector to the oil temperature sensor
- Check the oil level: Your mechanic will clean any oil lost during the replacement and use a dipstick to check the oil level. If required, your mechanic will give your vehicle fresh oil.
After the replacement, your mechanic will clear any codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the repair was successful.
What happens if I don’t replace my oil temperature sensor?
Without a properly functioning oil temperature sensor, your oil temperature gauge can not inform you when your engine oil is too hot, which could lead to:
Engine issues are serious—and expensive—so you should take your vehicle to a mechanic immediately to replace your oil temperature sensor.
What is an oil temperature sensor?
The engine oil temperature sensor is an electronic sensor that monitors the temperature of the vehicle’s engine oil and communicates the information with the temperature gauge on your vehicle’s instrument cluster. This system allows you to monitor your oil temperature to avoid your engine overheating.
The oil temperature sensor is typically located on the engine block or the cylinder head.
When should I replace the oil temperature sensor on my car?
You should replace your oil temperature sensor when you notice the following:
- Your check engine light has come on.
- Oil temperature gauge is inaccurate.
- Oil temperature gauge is unresponsive.
Regular oil changes and allowing your car to warm up before driving in the winter are good ways to prolong the life of your oil temperature sensor—and your engine.
How often should an oil temperature sensor be replaced?
There is no mileage or age limit for your vehicle’s oil temperature sensor. Instead, you should be aware of warning signs of a faulty oil temperature sensor and take your vehicle to a mechanic if you suspect you’re in need of a replacement.
Can I replace my oil temperature sensor myself?
Replacing an engine oil temperature sensor requires technical knowledge of your vehicle’s engine and electrical components.
While it is possible to replace the sensor at home, most drivers should leave their oil temperature sensor replacement to a professional.
FAQs
Can you drive with a bad oil temperature sensor?
You should avoid driving with a bad oil temperature sensor. Without a functioning sensor, your vehicle won’t know when your engine is overheating—so neither will you.
You could face expensive engine damage if your engine overheats, so you should stay off the roads and call a mechanic as soon as possible.
Where is the oil temperature sensor located?
The oil temperature sensor is in the engine compartment, typically on the engine block or the cylinder head.
What happens when my oil temperature sensor goes bad?
With a faulty oil temperature sensor, you might experience the following:
- Your check engine warning light has come on.
- Oil temperature gauge is inaccurate.
- Oil temperature gauge is unresponsive.
Without a proper reading from your temperature gauge, your engine could overheat, leading to steep repair costs.
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.
Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett
Car Expert
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.
Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.
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