P0195 — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Intermittent
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0195 means
This code means the engine oil temperature sensor signal is cutting in and out instead of staying steady, which usually points to a loose connection or damaged wiring rather than a fully failed sensor. The computer uses oil temperature to help manage shifting and engine protection, so an unreliable reading can cause small drivability quirks. It's typically an inexpensive fix once the bad connection or sensor is found.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on or flickers
- Erratic or harsh transmission shifting at times
- Temperature gauge readings that jump around
- Occasional rough idle or hesitation
- Minor changes in fuel economy
Common causes
- Loose or corroded sensor connector
- Intermittent break in the sensor wiring
- Failing engine oil temperature sensor
- Chafed or pinched wiring harness
- Poor ground connection at the sensor
Typical repair cost
$100 – $300
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0195 code?
Usually yes, since the engine often runs normally. Still, an intermittent sensor tends to worsen and can cause occasional shifting or drivability issues, so get it checked before it becomes constant.
How much does it cost to fix a P0195 code?
Repairs typically range from $100 to $300. Fixing a loose connector or wire is cheap, while replacing the oil temperature sensor adds parts and labor on the higher end.
Is a P0195 code serious?
It's moderate. The problem is usually electrical and not an immediate danger, but a faulty oil temperature reading can affect transmission behavior and engine protection over time.
Why does an intermittent code matter if the car drives fine?
Intermittent faults are tricky because they come and go, which makes them easy to ignore. Finding the loose connection or weak wire early prevents bigger drivability problems and a more expensive diagnosis later.