Why does my oil light flicker at an idle?

97 Ford escort 120k Miles. Seems to run pretty good, doesnt burn any oil but leaks a little bit (i check it often and fill when needed) It only seems to flicker when in drive and at an idle.Why does my oil light flicker at an idle?
Change the oil pressure sensor,if that does't do it you may have a bad oil pump or worn engine bearings.Why does my oil light flicker at an idle?
Make sure your oil viscosity is correct and oil level is correct first. Then take it to a mechanic for some bad news like ';sir your engine is worn and not making enough oil pressure at idle';. Worn internal engine bearings are causing low oil pressure readings. Then drive it till the motor locks up. Or think a new car would look good in my driveway!
oil splashes around when driving and lubricates...when idle sits.....too low to be picked up and splashed around...could be why it flickers...is it always on?...then flickers...?that I don't know...only if your oil level is topped off should you be good and not doing high cornering moves as your escort is not dry sump...like corvettes.....lol.
low oil level or bad sensor.
With 120 K Mi on the engine, the oil pressure can be expected to run a little low due to increased clearance in the crankshaft and rod bearings.





Also, the pressure senders for idiot-lights are not always well calibrated and you might have one that expects a higher than nominal pressure before it will shut off the light. The best thing would be to put a guage on it, at least temporarily, so you can get a real pressure reading.
It flickers because it is show low oil pressure at the threshold of it's setting. It may be the switch but need to check the oil pressure with manual gauge to be sure there is NO mechanical problem.
If the oil is up to level, this is an indication of the oil pump starting to wear. It can't keep up the proper pressure when at idle. When the rpm's are up it is more able to maintain pressure since it spins faster.
Or there is too much bearing clearance and that means expensive repair. Get the oil press tested with an aux-hand held remote gauge to be sure.
Actually, this is normal and not indicative of a problem! Since the engine's oil pump is dependent upon engine speed, when the car idles, especially in gear, the oil pump is not operating at its best and fullest capacity. Since the oil is not low and you keep an eye on the level, I don't think there is any problem. You may be able to rectify the situation by using a heavier weight oil, particularly in hot weather. Good luck!
you either have a weak oil pump or a bad oil pressure sensor, replace the sensor first it is only about 10 dollars...if it isnt the sensor try to go to straight 30 weight oil to prolong the pump until you can have it replaced....