Engine light on: 2001 PT-Cruiser? Oil light comes on when idled!?

Why did you put 10W-30 (a full mineral oil) in it when the owner's manual calls for 5W-30 full synthetic?

The engine check light is probably a separate issue. You need to take it to a Chrysler dealer to get it checked and the fault codes reset. In my experience, local garages cannot work on these cars effectively.

It's very likely, but not absolute that the two are related. If the computer picks up on low oil pressure, or no reading from the sensor, it will cause the check engine lamp to come on. The oil pressure switch is on the back of the cylinder head, near the firewall and is likely leaking. If you had true low oil pressure there would be a tapping from the engine. The switch works as a sort of plug over an oil port, at the top of the plug is a rubber "trampoline" of sorts that the oil pushes against. With a 2001 most of the rubber components are getting brittle. The oil pressure has probably caused a small hole in the rubber and allows for enough oil to bypass when the pressure is low at idle. Just think, one little switch may solve three problems, a leak, and two troublesome lights!! The replacement of the switch should be under $200.00

You can reset the check engine light by disconnecting the positive battery terminal, wait 10-20 seconds then reconnect the battery. While you are waiting you can even clean the terminals. When the check engine light comes on again take it to a place like Autozone or Pep Boys and ask them to plug in the OBD 2 computer -they do it for free - and they will give you the code or codes. Then use bing.com and search for diagnostic codes pt cruiser. The codes are not specific, they do point you in the right direction. For example if a code is for weak or no spark it may be a bad plug, bad wire, loose connection, dirty connection etc.etc.

Or go to this website with forums on Chrysler products: www.allpar.com and find the pt forum.

The oil pressure light is another issue, a potentially serious one. Could be as simple as the filter isn't compatible, a bad sensor or as serious as a bad oil pump. There is a reason the person sold it so don't be surprised.

Are there any sounds coming from the engine indicating it is getting hot and the oil is getting too thin to maintain proper pressure?

Changed oil: Redo the oil change using a genuine Mopar oil filter ASAP. Some aftermarket filters have pressure valves of differing calibrations which may be ok in a newer engine but not in a high mileage engine. Use the oil specified in the owner's manual. You could try Mobil One synthetic for high mileage cars.

On cars with computer controls like this, I have found it is best to use OEM stuff, not cheap aftermarket things. Go through the engine compartment and try to spot any aftermarket things or if you have access to the owner, ask him/her what they recently did to the car for clues about where to look. Changed plugs, changed a sensor, etc.

While you are at it change the automatic transmission fluid. Again the specs are very unique so be certain to use Mopar ATF [3 or 4, check the manual] DON"T go to a quicky transmission or lube shop. They say they use OEM but they use generic ATF and put additives in - stay away!

I once purchased a heavy duty set of after market plug wires for a Dodge Grand Caravan 3.3 liter and the check engine light went on. Different resistance affected the computer. Changed back to a set of OEM and it was fine until I sold it with 218k miles.

These are very good cars so be patient and you will solve these problems.

2001 Pt Cruiser Dashboard Replacement

It's a common PT Cruiser problem. I've driven with my faulty light for two years and just get the oil changed regularly except for today when the Wally World guy refused to change it due to some BS with the light.

I feel your frustration! I had a check engine light that stayed on all the time. As a poor college student I just slapped a sticky note on the dash. Out of sight out of mind right?!