Oil temperature sensor reporting fault.
P0195 — also written PO195, P 0195, 0195 — is the OBD-II code for engine oil temperature sensor. Same code, same fix: this page covers every spelling of it.
This is your engine's thermometer for its lifeblood; usually, it's a failed probe in the sump, especially common on high-mileage VWs and Beemers.
P0195 is a sensors fault code, typically costing £80–£250 to put right in a UK garage.
What P0195 actually feels like to drive
- The start-stop system stops working for no apparent reason.
- Oil temperature gauge on the dash is pinned to zero or jumping about like a madwoman.
- The car won't go into 'Eco' mode or perform a DPF regen because it thinks the oil is too cold.
- A 'Service Now' message that won't clear even after a reset.
- Radiator fans running at full pelt accidentally because the ECU is confused by the temperature data.
What causes P0195?
- Failed sensor
- Wiring
UK vehicles that throw P0195 most often
- BMW 3 Series (E90/E92) 320d/330d 2005-2012
- Volkswagen Golf Mk5/Mk6 1.9 & 2.0 TDI (BKD/CBAB) 2004-2013
- Audi A4 (B8) 2.0 TDI 2008-2015
- Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi (A20DTH) 2008-2017
- Skoda Octavia 1.6 TDI (CAYC) 2009-2013
How P0195 is fixed
- Sensor replacement
The P0195 misdiagnosis that wastes money
I see a lot of lads jump straight to the sensor and then get a face like a slapped ham when the light stays on. On the BMW E90s and E60s, they often blame the sensor when it's actually the wiring loom rubbing against the oil filter housing or the block. Another classic blunder is mistaking this for an oil pressure warning—the two aren't the same. I've had cars come in where a DIYer's fitted a cheap £10 eBay sensor that doesn't talk to the ECU properly, making the dash read -40°C or something mental. Always check the plug for green crusty corrosion before you spend a penny.
What a UK garage should charge for P0195
A decent Bosch or Hella sensor will set you back £40 to £70 from a factor like Euro Car Parts or GSF. If you're at a main dealer, expect to pay £120 just for the part. Labour should be 0.5 to 1 hour—around £50-£80 at a good independent. However, because the sensor is often in the sump, you’ll likely need an oil change at the same time. All in, with fresh oil and a filter, you’re looking at £150 to £220 including the VAT depending on the oil grade your motor takes.
P0195 repair cost in the UK
Most P0195 repairs land between £80–£250 including parts and labour. The spread is wide because the cheap fix (a sensor, a hose, a leak) and the expensive fix (a major component) throw the same code — which is why a proper diagnosis before parts are bought saves the most money.
Bob's tip on P0195
Don't let a garage charge you two hours for this. On most Vag-group or BMW engines, the sensor is right there at the bottom of the sump or near the filter—it's a 20-minute job during an oil change. If they're quoting high, ask them if they've done a 'continuity test' on the wiring. A proper tech will pin out the loom to the ECU to make sure it's not a broken wire. Also, if your car has a variable service interval (like Audi LongLife), this sensor is vital—if it's buggered, the car won't know when the oil is due, so insist on a Bosch or Hella replacement, not a generic white-box part.
Can you drive with P0195?
Drivable.
Urgency: low.