Proper Diagnosis of Oil Level Switch Leaks – 2019-2022 Subaru Ascent 2020-2022 Legacy & Outback

NHTSA ID Number: 10209937

Manufacturer Communication Number: 02-190-22

Summary

This bulletin announces the proper diagnostic procedures regarding oil leakage from the oil level switch area.

 


INTRODUCTION:

This Service Information Bulletin announces the proper diagnostic procedures regarding oil leakage from the oil level switch area. There is a slight clearance between the center epoxy portion of the oil level switch and its exterior. Engine oil flows through the switch and can cause the clearance to become saturated in oil. During engine operation, the switch temperature increases and the clearance between the epoxy and the exterior shrinks due to thermal expansion. As this clearance shrinks, the previously saturated oil is forced out and gives the appearance of a leaking oil level switch.

 

PART INFORMATION:

Pictured above is an example of an oil level switch NOT leaking oil but can be perceived to have a leak.

 

SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:

Please follow the procedure below if you find any engine oil on the level switch when an oil leak is being detected. First clean the area and apply a leak seeking powder for easier observation.

1. Observe contact surfaces of the following:

2. Oil Level Switch, Lower Oil Pan, Upper Oil Pan, Engine Block, Cylinder Heads, and Transmission.

3. Confirm if engine oil is leaking from anywhere other than the oil level switch.

4. If any leaks are found, drain the engine oil, and replace and/or reseal the leaking part(s) as necessary.

5. When replacing the leaking component, take special care not to damage the oil level switch by contacting it with other parts while removing and installing, as the float may become damaged. As for the oil level switch, if there’s no cracks or damage found during visual inspection, clean and reinstall the switch.

6. Correct the engine oil level. Perform a road test. Re-inspect for any leaks.

 


10 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKE MODEL YEAR
SUBARU ASCENT 2019-2022
SUBARU LEGACY 2020-2022
SUBARU OUTBACK 2020-2022

 


1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

NUMBER: 02-190-22
DATE: 03/29/22

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10209937

MC-10209937-0001.pdf 1786.641KB

MC-10209937-0001

 


 

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Last update on 2023-05-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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