Reading up on doing the oil change from the FSM. In the "MA" section it mentions to actually remove the oil pressure sending unit and insert a gauge there to check the oil pressure. Anyone actually do this?

This is mentioned in the 2010 FSM, but not in the 2012 FSM.... but its the same (VQ35DE) engine.

I am looking a buying a 2012 "S" and thought that might be something to check before buying it.

 

What makes you suspect of a failing oil pump?

You absolutely could run a gauge. The sending unit will be a pain in the *** to get to, you will have to drain the oil to install the gauge then refill, then drain and refill again when you replace the gauge with the sending unit, then ensure there are no leaks before you give it back to the owner after deciding you like other car better.

OR you could start the car, note that the oil dash light flickers on startup then stays off for the remainder of your test drive, and understand that the absence of the dash light is a positive indication of a properly functioning oil pump and level.

 

Not that I suspect anything.....I just dont trust a light. It will only come on when the oil pressure is too high or too low.

The FSM does not say the oil has to be drained and the switch is right there beside the oil filter. Not that hard to get at.

 

Cool beans. Let us know how it goes.