Just purchased a '95 LeSabre with the 3800 series 2 engine, about half the time when starting up, if the car has been sitting for more than an hour, the "check oil" light comes on and stays on for 2-3 minutes. I have changed the oil, and it is full, but at times when idling it shows low pressure, low enough that the warning light comes on. Any suggestions, I'm thinking maybe either the oil pump or it's not holding pressure for some reason.

First thing to check is oil pressure sender; they seem to be cheaply made. I've replaced mine twice.


I think there is a different sender for low oil level, but I've never had to deal with that.


It's also possible that your engine is worn. How many miles? Do you know the history?

Don't know the history, but it has the original paint, which is almost show room condition, not even a scratch. Mileage is high just under 157k, but you would never know it, even the seats are not worn. Will check the oil pressure sender.

O.K., but some people clean and polish, but never open the hood.


There really should be some seat wear at 157K, so you've got to wonder if maybe the interior was replaced. I got a whole new interior from a 2001 with 20,000 miles for my 1997 with 160,000 miles.