What causes high oil pressure in a Dodge Journey?

High oil pressure in a Dodge Journey is typically due to mechanical faults that impede proper relief or reduce circulation, or occasionally to a faulty sensor reporting falsely high readings. The most common causes are a sticking oil pressure relief valve, blocked oil passages or filter, an overfilled or overly viscous oil, or a malfunctioning sensor.

Understanding what can drive elevated oil pressure helps owners decide whether to inspect the oil system themselves or seek professional service. The following sections break down the main mechanical and electrical culprits, plus practical diagnostic steps and safe handling guidance.

Common mechanical causes

These issues physically raise the pressure within the oil system or upset the valve that normally regulates it.

• Sticking or failed oil pressure relief valve inside the oil pump, which prevents proper relief of pressure as oil circulates.


• Clogged oil passages or sludge buildup that narrows flow and raises upstream pressure.


• Clogged or overly restrictive oil filter, increasing backpressure in the feed line.


• Using engine oil with too high a viscosity for the operating temperature, causing greater resistance to flow.


• Worn or damaged oil pump or a faulty bypass valve that misregulates pressure.


• Overfilling the engine with oil, which can raise internal pressure and cause foaming or aeration.

These mechanical issues affect the oil supply path from the sump to the engine’s bearings. If you suspect one of these, a professional inspection is advised, as some problems require part replacement or system flushing.

Sensor and electrical causes of false high readings

In some cases, the appearance of high oil pressure comes from a faulty sensor or gauge rather than actual engine pressure. Verifying the reading with a mechanical gauge is a common next step.

• Faulty oil pressure sensor or sending unit producing an erroneously high reading on the instrument cluster.


• Wiring harness damage, corroded connectors, or grounding issues causing incorrect signals to the gauge or PCM.


• Instrument cluster calibration or dashboard gauge fault that exaggerates or misreads the pressure.

Because electrical faults can mimic a dangerous high-pressure condition, technicians typically confirm readings with a portable mechanical oil pressure gauge before performing major service.

Symptoms and diagnostic steps

If you observe high oil pressure, look for typical signs and follow a structured diagnostic approach to avoid unnecessary repairs.

• Abnormally high oil pressure gauge reading or warning light stays on after startup.


• Oil appears unusually thick or smells hot, indicating abnormal operating conditions.


• Engine runs longer to reach normal temperature, or gauge readings fluctuate in an unusual way.


• Check oil level and condition; inspect for overfill, contamination, or using the wrong viscosity.


• Perform a mechanical oil pressure test with a known-good gauge to confirm actual pressure.

If high pressure is confirmed, do not continue driving. Shut off the engine and arrange for professional inspection to identify whether the pump, valve, filter, or sludge buildup is the root cause.

Immediate actions and remedies

When you suspect elevated oil pressure in a Dodge Journey, take these prudent steps to protect the engine.

• Safely pull over, turn off the engine, and wait for a few minutes to allow pressure to normalize before opening the hood.


• Check the oil level and grade; correct any overfill or underfill to the manufacturer’s specification.


• Look for signs of a failing filter, sludge, or oil leaks that could indicate a problem in the oil circuit.


• If possible, test with a mechanical oil pressure gauge to verify whether the actual pressure is high.

Persistent high oil pressure warrants professional diagnosis, as it may require replacing the oil pump or relief valve, clearing sludge, or correcting oil viscosity to prevent bearing wear and other damage.

Summary

High oil pressure in a Dodge Journey is most often caused by a stuck relief valve, restricted oil flow from sludge or a clogged filter, incorrect oil viscosity, or a faulty sensor that misreports pressure. A careful diagnostic approach—beginning with validating readings with a mechanical gauge and confirming oil type and level—helps prevent engine damage and guides appropriate repairs.

What can cause my oil pressure to be high?

High oil pressure is often caused by a clogged oil filter, a faulty pressure relief valve, or blocked oil passages due to sludge buildup. Other causes include using oil that is too thick for your engine or for the current temperature, a problem with the oil pump, or a malfunctioning sending unit that provides an inaccurate reading. 
Common causes

• Clogged oil filter: As a filter ages, it collects dirt and debris, restricting oil flow and causing pressure to build. 
• Faulty pressure relief valve: This valve is designed to open and release excess pressure. If it fails, pressure can continue to rise to damaging levels. 
• Blocked oil passages: Sludge and carbon deposits can build up in the engine's oil pathways, creating a blockage that increases pressure. 
• Incorrect oil viscosity: Using an oil that is too thick for your engine or the weather can increase resistance and cause high pressure. 
• Malfunctioning oil pump: A worn oil pump may not properly regulate pressure, leading to high readings. 
• Bad sending unit or gauge: The sensor that measures oil pressure could be faulty and sending an incorrect, high-pressure signal to your dashboard gauge. 

Less common causes
Overfilling the oil pan, Damaged oil cooler, and Plugged crankcase vents.

How to get rid of high oil pressure?

To fix high oil pressure, start by replacing the oil filter and using the correct oil viscosity, as a clogged filter or wrong oil are common causes. If the problem continues, check for and clean any blocked oil passages, and if these steps don't work, it's best to have a mechanic inspect the oil pump, pressure sending unit, or other components.
 
Simple fixes

• Change the oil and filter: A dirty oil filter can restrict flow, and old oil can thicken over time. Replace both with the correct type and viscosity specified in your owner's manual. 
• Check the oil level: An overfilled engine can cause high pressure. Drain any excess oil if the level is too high. 
• Ensure the engine is at operating temperature: High pressure can sometimes be a normal result of a cold engine. Let the engine reach its full operating temperature and see if the pressure returns to normal. 

More complex solutions

• Clean the oil passages: Sludge and carbon deposits can build up in the oil passages. Remove the oil pan and scrub out any blockages. You can also try using an engine cleaning additive in the oil, following the product's instructions. 
• Inspect the oil pump: The oil pump itself could be malfunctioning. A mechanic can test it and replace it if it's failing, especially if it's a high-volume pump designed for pressure. 
• Check the oil cooler: If your vehicle has one, a problem with the oil cooler could cause high pressure. 

When to see a professional

• Consult a mechanic: If the problem persists after trying the above steps, it's crucial to have a mechanic diagnose the issue. They can use a mechanical pressure gauge to accurately measure the pressure and check for problems with the sending unit, pressure relief valve, or oil pump. 
• Don't ignore the problem: High oil pressure can damage engine components, such as blowing the oil filter off, so it's important to address it promptly. 

How do I make my oil pressure go down?

Changing the viscosity grade to a thicker or thinner oil has an effect on the oil pressure. If the oil is too viscous or not viscous enough, it might be the wrong oil for your engine. The temperature of the engine also has an effect on oil pressure.

What does high oil pressure most likely indicate?

If you suspect you have too high oil pressure, you should troubleshoot all the potential causes. These include too much or dirty oil, clogged filters, air in the system, using too viscous lubricants, faulty sensors, faulty gauges, blockages, malfunctioning relief valves, and malfunctioning engines.