Oil pump replacement
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Oil pump replacement
Need the oil pump replaced?
The oil pump is responsible for circulating oil and to assist in the cooling of the engine. This includes supplying oil to extremely important components such as the bearings, pistons and camshaft. A failing oil pump won’t be able to pump oil through the system properly, causing these and other parts to struggle to move freely.
Oil reduces heat and friction and keeps parts from coming into contact with each other. When oil pressure drops and the oil is not being pumped through the engine properly, components will not be lubricated sufficiently and heat and friction will increase, leading to possible engine damage.
A common sign the oil pump is failing is that the hydraulic lifters and the valve train become noisy. You may also notice the engine temperature increase. A drop in oil pressure may lead to the check engine light or oil light coming on. These are the biggest warning signs of a problem and should lead you to have the system examined as soon as possible. An expert AutoGuru mechanic can perform that check for you.
What is an oil pump?
The oil pump is usually a mechanical pump driven by the crankshaft. It is typically situated low on the engine at the front of the crankshaft. It will have a short pick-up pipe and mesh strainer that sits in the base of the sump from where it draws oil.
Oil pumps can be constructed from cast iron or aluminium. Due to the important role they play, they need to be reliable and long lasting and are comprised of only a few parts.
There are different types of oil pumps but the more common ones will utilise gears or rotors to propel the oil. These gears or rotors are designed to restrict the oil’s journey in a way that increases the oil pressure as it passes through the pump. Ideal oil pressure is required for the oil to travel to all required contact points within the engine.
Symptoms that an oil pump needs replacing
- Drop in oil pressure
- Difficulty starting
- Oil light on the dash is on
- Check engine light is on
- Unusual noises from the engine
- Increased engine temperature
How is an oil pump replaced?
- Oil sump under the engine is located
- Oil drained from the engine
- Oil sump pan is removed
- Oil pump located and removed
- New oil pump fitted
- Oil sump pan refitted (this might be a good time to replace the sump gasket if required)
- Sump plug bolt tightened. A new washer may be required
- Engine refilled with oil to the full line on dipstick
- Vehicle tested and oil level rechecked once settled
Tips to remember
Using the correct oil for the vehicle and changing it within the manufacturer’s recommended service interval times will aid in extending the life of the oil pump.
It’s recommended to replace the oil sump pan gasket at the same time the oil pump is replaced to reduce the risk of oil leaks.
How important is replacing the oil pump?
The life of an engine relies on the oil pump working efficiently. If oil pressure is low and the oil is not lubricating the engine properly then the engine can overheat and permanent damage can occur. Replacing the oil pump as soon as an issue is detected is highly recommended.
