Engine Oil Over Temperature
The P0298 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Engine Oil Over Temperature. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No — stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- no
- Estimated cost
- $50 - $800 (parts and labor)
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What Are the Symptoms of P0298?
- Check Engine Light on or flashing
- Engine oil temperature warning on dashboard
- Possible burning oil smell
- Engine may enter limp mode or shut down
What Causes P0298? (Most Likely First)
- Low engine oil level Very High
- Faulty engine oil cooler High
- Clogged oil passages restricting flow Moderate
- Faulty oil temperature sensor giving false reading Low
Can I Still Drive with P0298?
No — stop driving. P0298 is rated critical severity. Continuing to drive in this state risks further damage — get it looked at before your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P0298 a serious code?
Yes, excessive oil temperature can cause rapid engine wear, oil breakdown, and potential engine seizure. Stop driving immediately and check oil level.
What temperature is too hot for engine oil?
Engine oil above 260F (127C) begins to break down rapidly. Above 300F (149C), oil can lose its lubricating properties and cause severe engine damage.
Can low oil cause over-temperature?
Yes, low oil level is the most common cause. Less oil means each molecule cycles through the engine more frequently, absorbing more heat with less time to cool.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0298?
-
Check engine oil level immediately. Top off if low.
-
Read engine oil temperature PID on scan tool. Normal operating temperature is 200-240F (93-115C).
-
Inspect engine oil cooler for leaks or blockage.
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Verify oil temperature sensor accuracy by comparing to an infrared thermometer reading on the oil pan.
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
P0298 on Diesel, EV & Equipment
The same code ID appears across other engines and platforms. The diagnostic flow varies by manufacturer — these are the platform-specific breakdowns:
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P0298?
- 2010-2020 BMW 335i (3.0T)
- 2012-2019 Audi A4 (2.0T)
- 2008-2018 Volkswagen GTI (2.0T)
- 2011-2020 Ford F-150 (3.5L EcoBoost)
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