When you get a P1524 RAM 1500 code, you must find the causes and fix them as soon as possible. Various factors can cause the P1524. All these causes can be resolved differently.
P1524 error code is mainly experienced by Dodge RAM 1500 owners. Although the code is mostly related to the oil pressure, you can fix it by yourself without the help of mechanics.
In this article, you will learn the code, the causes, the symptoms to look for, and how to fix the causes. You will also know how to clear the code once you have fixed the problems.
Table of Contents
What Does P1524 Code Mean On RAM 1500?
P1524 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for “Oil Pressure Out Of Range – Camshaft Advance/Retards Disabled”.
The oil pressure on RAM 1500 trucks should be between 25 and 65 psi (pounds per square inch) during normal operations. For the Variable Cam Timing (VCT) to be activated, the oil pressure has to be about 42 psi and has to maintain at approximately 36 psi. If the oil pressure drops below 31 psi, the VCT is disabled and the P1524 is displayed.
That means the engine oil pressure did not reach the calibrated specification to allow the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) to be activated.
P1524 RAM 1500 Code: 6 Causes And How To Fix
Low Engine Oil Level
Low engine oil pressure is one of the leading causes of the P1524 RAM 1500 code.
If the engine oil level is low, the pressure will decrease. Once you get the error, the first thing you need to do is to check whether or not the engine oil level is low.
Symptoms
- Low marks after dipstick test
- You will get an oil warning light on the car dashboard
- A knocking sound from the engine. It happens when engine parts have stayed long without enough oil and have suffered friction
- A burning smell from the engine
- Engine failure – it is the worst case after ignoring the other symptoms
Solution
The solution for this case is to add engine oil to the recommended level. Then, check the manufacturer’s guide on how much oil is required in the engine and top up.
Step 1: Open the engine hood to access the engine.
Step 2: Check the engine oil level by pulling out the dipstick. Wipe it clean, then insert it again and check the level.
Step 3: Open the oil cap on the top of the engine.
Step 4: Add the right engine oil, return the cap and tighten it.
Aerated/ Dirty Engine Oil
Clean engine oil is a must for every car. However, lubrication becomes problematic if the oil is dirty due to the impurities. This is a factor that can lead to P1524.
Symptoms
- The smell of engine oil in the cabin
- The exhaust smokes more than normal
- Different in the color of the oil when checked with a dipstick (dark brown, black, milky)
- Loud engine or knocking sound in the engine (happens in extreme cases where the oil is extremely dirty and no action has been taken for a long time)
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Solution
Driving with dirty engine oil for a long time is very bad for the engine. It affects the engine parts and components, and performance. To fix this, you must do an immediate oil change.
An oil change will get rid of the old dirty oil and bring clean oil that can move effectively within the engine and lubricate all parts as required.
Clogged Oil Filter
A clogged oil filter can cause several issues to an engine, bringing the P1524 engine code. The engine oil filter is directly related to engine oil pressure and circulation.
Symptoms
- Oil leaks from engine oil filter
- Metallic noise from the engine
- Dirty exhaust gases
- Poor engine performance. It can arise from various problems caused by the incorrect engine oil filter
- Engine sputters
- Low oil pressure warning lights
Solution
The main solution is to replace the oil filter. You can bring it to the mechanic or do it yourself. Below are the steps to change the oil filter.
Step 1: Start by draining oil from the engine. Do this by opening your oil drain plug and ensuring all the oil is drained.
Step 2: Loosen the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench. Use an adjustable wrench.
Step 3: Remove the clogged oil filter by unscrewing it with your hand.
Step 4: Wipe the surface of the engine to remove any impurities and debris.
Step 5: Take the new oil filter, and lubricate it on the edge by applying oil.
Step 6: Fill the changed oil filter with half a quart of fresh engine oil.
Step 7: Install the new one and screw it using your hand. Do not tighten it too much to avoid damaging the seal.
Step 8: Pour the remaining oil into the engine to the recommended level and close the caps.
Read more: P1693 Dodge Cummins Code: Causes And Fixes
Faulty Engine Oil Pressure Sensor
The engine oil pressure sensor is responsible for checking the oil pressure and transmitting the information to the vehicle’s computer. In case the sensor is faulty, you will get errors.
Symptoms
- Warning light for oil pressure
- Noises from the engine
- Check engine warning light
- Faulty readings on the oil pressure gauge
- Blinking oil light
Solution
Whenever you have a faulty engine oil pressure sensor, the only solution is to replace it. You can contact an experienced mechanic or do it yourself by following the steps below.
Step 1: Locate the oil pressure sensor, which is found on the engine case near the cylinder heads.
Step 2: Unplug the sensor by releasing its retaining tab. Then pull the connector out.
Step 3: Use a wrench to loosen the oil sensor, and then unscrew using your hand.
Step 4: Install the new one by threading it back until you can’t turn it further.
Powertrain Control Module Problem
The PCM controls several parts of the engine, including the transmission control module and engine control module. When there is a problem, you will get the P1524 error code.
Symptoms
- Engine check light
- Sudden poor gas mileage
- The vehicle starts roughly or fails to start
- Engine stalls
- Random or erratic shifting
Solution
Having experienced mechanics replacing the PCM is the only option in this case. However, expect to pay about $900.
Other Reasons Causing Insufficient Oil Pressure
Oil pressure is directly associated with the lubrication of engine parts, circulation inside the engine, and engine performance. Low or insufficient oil pressure can be caused by a bad oil pump, oil viscosity problems, low engine oil level, and a dirty oil filter.
Symptoms
- Engine overheating
- The smell of burning oil
- Decreasing engine performance
- Oil warning lights
- Engine noise
Solution
The problem of low or incorrect oil pressure must be addressed carefully. But, first, you must start by diagnosing the cause to be able to fix it effectively.
If a dirty oil filter causes the problem, you have to change the oil filter to a clean one, as discussed above.
Add oil to recommended oil level in case it has dropped. Ensure that you use the recommended engine oil since it will have the correct viscosity. You can do this by checking the owner’s manual.
The last and challenging problem is if your oil pump is failing. You will have to get a good mechanic to replace the oil pump in such a case.
Read more: Dodge Challenger ABS & Traction Control Light On: Causes & How To Reset
How To Clear P1524 Code
Once you have done all the fixes, the next part is to clear the P1524 code.
Make use of an OBD2 scanner to see the codes and clear them. You can get two types. First, you connect with the wireless phone, and the wired ones come with a display screen. After that, you have to follow the precise steps.
- Plug the code scanner in, and the input area will be near the steering.
- Once the OBD2 is plugged in, ensure the ignition is on, and press “Enter” to scan.
- You will find the code displayed.
- Select “Erase Codes”. Then exit.
Conclusion
Whenever you notice P1524 RAM 1500, note that this is a code related to the engine. As a result, it is crucial to fix the problem within the shortest time possible. This will ensure that your car does not develop further severe problems.
The above discussed are steps to check the causes and the fixes. For the fixes, find an experienced mechanic if you cannot do it yourself.
