The oil pump is one of the essential complementary parts of your vehicle’s engine. Its primary duties are to supply the required oil for engine lubrication while the car is running.
The lubrication oil allows the engine’s metal components to interact without causing tough physical damage due to friction.
The oil from the oil pump also absorbs heat from the engine components bringing about a cooling effect and preventing the engine from overheating.
Although the pump is among the strongest parts of the engine, it sometimes malfunctions. A failing oil pump will starve the engine of oil and can result in catastrophic engine damage.
Therefore, every car owner should note the symptoms of a bad oil pump and replace it to avoid worse damage to the vehicle.
What Is an Oil Pump?
Oil is important for the movement of the engine’s parts. Not to mention, the oil is also responsible for the collection of dirt, absorption of heat, and prevention of corrosion.
For all these benefits to be possible, the oil needs to pass through the engine, and such is what the oil pump does.
The oil pump is also known as the heart of the engine’s lubrication system. It sucks oil from the pan and pushes it around the engine before going back to the sump and recirculating.
When it fails, it is most likely that the engine won’t be working as it should. It won’t take long before serious damage is present, and that will be costly to repair.
Which Types of Oil Pumps are Available for Cars?
The best oil pump for your needs must be chosen because each kind has a unique mix of benefits and drawbacks. Let’s examine the many oil pumps available:
#1. The Conventional Oil Pump.
These are the earliest vehicle oil pumps still in service. To transfer oil through the pump and toward the engine, it employs a straightforward vane or rotating gear arrangement.
This kind of oil pump has a spring-loaded pressure relief valve that opens up when oil pressure becomes too high, protecting the engine.
#2. The Variable Oil Pump.
Oil pressure needs to be higher for modern engines than for older ones. Additionally, because the typical oil pump depends on the engine’s crankshaft for power, it is ineffective if you require high oil pressures at low RPMs.
As the vehicle’s speed rises, the crankshaft’s RPMs rise as well. This problem means that traditional oil pumps are never able to achieve high oil pressures at low RPMs. The variable oil pumps are useful in situations like these.
Vane oil pumps, also known as variable oil pumps, have a lower maximum rotational speed and may provide higher oil pressures.
This type of oil pump has a series of vanes that spin with the gears. These vanes’ movement controls both the pressure and volume of the oil flow coming from these pumps.
#3. The Electric Oil Pump.
The majority of engines with turbochargers or superchargers also have electric oil pumps. The fundamental justification for this is that they can deliver the high levels of oil pressure required by these engines without unduly taxing the engine.
They can also increase fuel efficiency since they are more effective than traditional oil pumps. Electric oil pumps are also used in hybrid and other contemporary technology-based vehicles.
How Does an Oil Pump Work?
An oil pump is a mechanical device that transfers fluids by positive displacement. The oil pump draws oil into its inlet port and then forces the oil to move through the outlet port.
The oil pump operates using either a gear, vane, or gearmotor type of Pump. The most common type of oil pump used in automotive applications is the gear type.
The engine’s crankshaft drives the oil pump via a timing belt or chain. As the crankshaft turns, it drives the Oil Pump, which pressurizes the engine’s lubricating oil and delivers it to the various moving parts within the engine.
The oil pump is designed to maintain a constant flow of oil regardless of the engine speed. However, the flow of oil will increase as the engine speed increases.
This is because the faster the engine is running, the greater the demand for oil by the moving parts within the engine.
Common Symptoms of a bad oil pump
There are several mechanical problems associated with a failing oil pump. Most of these mechanical problems have several conspicuous and easily noticeable indicators like increased engine temperature and strange noises during engine operation.
Here are some common indicators of an oil pump that is progressively failing.
#1. Low Oil Pressure.
As mentioned earlier, the oil pump provides and regulates the pressure of the oil that lubricates and controls the temperature of your engine.
By pressurizing the oil, the pump facilitates oil navigation throughout the different parts of the engine. An adequate supply of oil ensures the moving parts of the engine are properly greased and efficiently slide against each other without physical damage.
Inadequate oiling due to low pressure from a bad oil pump causes the engine components to roughly rub against each other.
The first signal of decreased oil pressure is the oil light on the dashboard powering up. Other consequences of decreased oil pressure are decreased power and engine stalling. Therefore, the answer to the question, can a bad oil pump cause misfires is yes.
#2. Increased Engine Temperature.
Lubrication oil reduces the engine temperature in two ways. First, it absorbs excess heat generated by the engine and dissipates it as it moves around the different parts of the engine.
Also, lubrication oil decreases engine component friction. More friction results in higher engine temperature. Therefore, one of the symptoms of a bad oil pump is a significant increase in the operating temperature of your car engine.
When there is restricted oil flow in the engine and the engine temperature increases, your vehicle dashboard check light will light up to notify you of the alarming engine temperature.
Vehicle overheating engines pose severe detrimental hazards to your engine. You should, therefore, take your car to the auto mechanic whenever you have overheating engine problems.
#3. Hydraulic Lifter Noise.
Other essential components of the valve-train operations of your vehicle engine are hydraulic lifters. They maintain the valve clearance with the rock and cam follower.
Therefore, the lifters need enough oil lubrication to perform their function efficiently. Low oil pressure from the oil pump prevents the oil from reaching the hydraulic lifters.
They will then struggle in mobility and produce a lot of noise when moving. Lack of lubrication causes extreme friction that leads to wear and tear, thus, significantly reducing the hydraulic lifters’ lifespan.
#4. Noise from the Valve-Train System.
The valve-train system of a car also includes important components like pushrods, seals, and valve guides that keep the engine running.
Each of these components requires an adequate flow of oil for the lubrication of the metal parts.
Inadequate lubrication causes friction to the mechanical parts of the engine, thus, the noise produced in the valve-train system. That is why noise production in the valve train can be a simple diagnostic for a vehicle with a bad oil pump.
#5. Noise at the Oil Pump.
A correctly functioning oil pump operates silently. However, when the pump begins to fail, it produces a whining and wiring sound when it attempts to circulate oil to the engine parts.
The whining and wiring sounds are especially noticeable when the car is idling. The unfavorable sounds are due to the gears of the oil pump wearing out.
What Causes Oil Pump Failure?
Oil pumps fail for a variety of reasons, most commonly with age or neglect or poor maintenance. We’ve identified the three most common failure causes and included a few other unlikely but possible causes below.
#1. Low Oil Levels.
Operating an engine with insufficient oil is a sure way to shorten the life of an oil pump. Low oil levels mean the pump may suck in air as well as oil, which causes oil starvation. We can get several related issues, including:
- Cavitation. The presence of air bubbles in the oil causes excessive wear on pump components.
- Overheating. The pump will be unable to cool and lubricate the same when the level of oil decreases.
- Dry Running. In the most extreme situation, the pump will run completely dry, leading to instant failure.
Low oil levels can be caused by leaks, burning oil, or neglecting to check/leak regularly. You should regularly check the oil level and fix any leaks.
Many new vehicles have oil level sensors, but you should never rely ONLY on the sensors without checking regularly.
#2. Age and Mileage.
An oil pump will have a lifespan similar to any other engine component; while typically robust (especially OEM), they will wear as the vehicle accumulates mileage, especially mileage that exceeds 150,000 or greater.
With excessive mileage, the internal components of the pump can wear out. The gears or rotors can become impinged, which will decrease oil flow efficiency and oil pressure.
Years of heat and friction can wear down the pump and cause metal fatigue in pump components. This could lead to warping of the pump housing, wear to the gear teeth, and deterioration of seals.
Additionally, other engine components will age, meaning they release a lot more particles of metal, resulting in increased wear on the pump.
Oil pump life varies primarily with driving environments, maintenance practices, and vehicle manufacturer.
Some oil pumps will last the life of the engine, while others will need a replacement sooner.
For vehicles that exceed 100,000 miles, mechanics generally recommend inspecting the oil pump and replacing it during any significant service as a form of insurance.
#3. Contaminated Oil.
Oil contamination can result in oil pump failure. As oil circulates through the engine, it accumulates debris, metal particles, and other contaminants. Eventually, these contaminants may damage the oil pump’s precise components.
Contaminated oil acts as liquid sandpaper, wearing away at the pump’s internal surfaces. This can reduce the pump’s efficiency, cause unnecessary wear on the gears or rotors, and have the potential to score the pump housing.
Although large contaminants are unlikely to cause pump failure from clogging or seizing the pump, this is yet another reason why oil changes are so important.
Fresh oil and a new oil filter remove contaminants for clean lubrication of the pump and engine.
By following the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended oil change interval or performing oil changes even sooner in severe conditions, you can drastically increase the life of the oil pump.
Other Causes
- Wrong Oil Viscosity – Using oil that is either too thick or too thin for the engine can place extreme strain on the oil pump and lead to premature failure.
- Manufacturing Defect – Although rare, some oil pumps are flawed from manufacturing and will experience failure.
- Improper Installation – Premature failure can occur if the oil pump is not installed properly during replacement.
- Overheated Engine – Excessive heat can break down oil, damaging the oil pump seals.
How to Test an Oil Pump
Method 1: Testing the Oil Pressure Manually
Determine the normal oil pressure range for your engine by looking it up in your vehicle manual
Every engine has specific range of oil pressure for maximum lifespan. Look in your vehicle manual for information about the engine and the standard pressure range. Record the pressure range so you can compare it to your actual readings.
If you don’t have your manual, you may be able to find one online.
As a “rule of thumb”, the oil pressure in your vehicle should be about 10 PSI for every 1,000 RPM of engine speed.
Remove the oil pressure sender from your engine block with a wrench
The oil pressure sender is a small black cylinder that reads the oil pressure and relays it to the gauge on your dashboard.
Pop your hood and check the top or side of your engine for the pressure sender unit. Locate the nut holding the sender in place and use a spanner wrench to loosen it. Set the sender unit aside while you’re working so it’s out of the way.
- Some oil may come out from the port for the sender once you remove it. Keep a shop cloth or rag nearby to catch any spills.
- Test your oil pressure manually even though you can check it on your vehicle dashboard. The sender unit could be faulty or you may have loose wiring inside your vehicle that may give a false reading.
- The “Check Oil” notification on your vehicle’s dashboard may light up when you disconnect the sender.
Warning: Don’t remove the sender unit while your engine is still warm after running your car. The heat thins the oil and makes it flow easier, so it could spill a large amount once the unit’s taken off.
Attach an oil pressure gauge onto the sender port on your engine
Oil pressure gauges have a hose that attaches to your engine and displays the readings on a meter.
Screw the end of the gauge’s hose to the port that the sender was attached to until it’s hand-tight. Use your wrench to tighten the gauge until you aren’t able to rotate it anymore.
You can buy an oil pressure gauge from auto supply stores or online. Make sure the end of the gauge’s hose matches the style port on your engine. Bring the sender unit with you to the store if you need to compare the ports.
Turn on your vehicle and take a reading from the meter
Put the gauge in a place where you can easily see it if you’re sitting in the driver’s seat, like in the gap between your open hood and windshield.
Start your vehicle’s engine and keep it running throughout your tests. Check the gauge to determine the PSI of your oil while it’s still cold.
Check that the port isn’t leaking oil near the gauge and if it is, try tightening the gauge more.
Take a reading from the gauge after the engine warms up
Leave your car running for an additional 10-15 minutes after you first took a reading so the oil warms up and starts to thin out.
Check the meter again to compare the actual oil pressure with the recommended pressure listed in the user manual. Write down your measurement so you don’t forget it.
Make sure your vehicle is in a properly ventilated area since running it will create fumes that can be deadly if they build up.
If there’s more than 10 PSI difference between the idle pressure when the oil is hot and the oil is cold, then there may be something wrong with your pump or the bearings inside it.
Test the oil pressure at 2-3 different RPM levels to see any differences
While your vehicle is still in park, lightly press down on the accelerator and watch the engine speed dial on your dashboard.
When you reach 1,000 or 1,500 RPM, keep your foot steady and check the reading on your oil pressure gauge. Once you take the first reading, take another at 2,500-3,000 RPM to compare how the pressure changes as you speed up.
- If the readings do not match the normal pressures listed in the manual, then you may have an issue with the oil pump.
Method 2: Recognizing the Signs of a Bad Pump
See if the oil pressure light is lit on your vehicle’s dashboard
Turn your vehicle on and look for a light on your dashboard that says “Check Oil” or “Check Oil Pressure.”
If one of the lights is lit up, then there may be an issue with your pump or another oil-related part. Check the oil pressure manually or take your car in to a mechanic to take a look at it to determine the problem.
- Dashboard lights could turn on due to faulty wiring or electrical systems in your vehicle as well.
Variation: Your vehicle may have a yellow or orange light in the shape of an oil can if you’re having oil issues instead.
Look at the engine temperature gauge to see if your engine’s overheating
Look on either the left or right side of your dashboard for the temperature gauge. Turn on your vehicle so the engine is running and let it warm up for 10-15 minutes.
If the temperature gauge continues to rise even after you’ve warmed up the engine, then there may be friction due to a lack of oil in the system.
- The temperature gauge on your vehicle could also rise due to the outside heat or other engine problems as well.
Listen for whining or clinking noises from your engine while it’s running
If your oil pump isn’t working properly, parts of your engine may not get properly lubricated and parts may scrape together.
Listen to your engine while your vehicle is running to see if you hear any high-pitched whines or clinking and clattering noises. Even if you hear the noises slightly, check the oil pressure on your pump to make sure it’s working properly.
- Engine noises could also be due to old and loose parts as well as faulty spark plugs.
Check your vehicle’s oil levels to see if there’s too much or too little oil
Open the hood of your vehicle so you can access the engine and unscrew the oil dipstick, which usually has a yellow cap. Wipe the dipstick clean on a shop cloth or old rag before dipping it back into the engine.
Pull the dipstick out again to see the oil level on the bottom. If the oil levels within the printed range on the dipstick but your engine still makes unusual noises, you may have a faulty pump.
- If there isn’t enough oil inside your engine, add more until it reaches the fill line.
- If you have too much oil, then you may need to drain some out until it’s in the correct range.
Where Is the Oil Pump Located In a Car?
Usually found inside the oil pan of your car, is the oil pump. The pickup tube it utilizes to pull oil from the pan and pump it through the engine is often located at the top of the pan. It may also be found towards the front of certain engines’ crankshafts.
The task takes a little longer and is more difficult because of the position, which requires you to drop the oil pan to access it.
The front primary cover of many cars must be removed, which is much worse because it frequently necessitates the removal and reinstallation of a huge number of other parts.
What Happens When an Oil Pump Fails?
Regardless of how durable the oil pump is, some oil pump failure causes oil contamination, progressive wear, tear, and malfunctioning suction tubes that are difficult to avoid.
You should be on the constant lookout for the signs that your car needs an oil pump replacement.
When oil pumps start failing, you should expect to experience all the above-mentioned symptoms which worsen gradually and ultimately lead to complete engine destruction.
With the reduction of pressure due to the oil pump, the bad oil pump or bearings will be under extreme pressure and will start collapsing.
Without the oil pressure to fill the gap between moving metal components, there won’t be any wedge to keep these metal components from touching each other.
Vigorous contact dissipates massive levels of heat due to friction. This friction and heat will permanently destroy the components and wear away extra material from the engine.
Inadequate pressure will destroy the connecting rod to crankshaft journal bearings quicker because these bearings are constantly under immense pressure from abusing forces.
When these bearings are destroyed, and that clearance is increased, re-establishing oil pressure will be unhelpful because the oil wedge required for efficient operations can’t be recreated and the bad oil pump knocking will continue until the engine completely fails.
How to Fix Oil Pump Problems
When a bad oil pump is diagnosed, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further engine damage. Here are some ways to fix bad oil pump symptoms:
#1. Replace the Oil Pump.
Replacing the oil pump is the most effective way to fix a bad oil pump. This involves removing the old oil pump and installing a new one.
It is recommended to use a high-quality oil pump to ensure long-lasting performance. The cost of replacing an oil pump varies depending on the car model and labor costs. Expect to pay between $300 and $2500.
#2. Change the Oil Filter.
A clogged oil filter can cause low oil pressure, which may lead to a bad oil pump. Changing the oil filter is a simple and affordable fix that can be done at home.
It is recommended to change the oil filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
#3. Flush the Engine Oil.
If the oil pump is clogged with debris or sludge, flushing the engine oil can help to remove the blockage and improve oil flow.
This involves draining the old oil, adding a flushing agent, running the engine for a few minutes, and then draining the flushing agent and adding new oil.
#4. Replace the Oil Pump Drive Gear.
The oil pump drive gear is responsible for driving the oil pump. If it is worn out or damaged, it can cause low oil pressure and a bad oil pump.
Replacing the oil pump drive gear is a complex job that requires special tools and expertise. It is recommended to take the car to a professional mechanic for this fix.
#5. Replace the Oil Pressure Sensor.
The oil pressure sensor is responsible for monitoring the oil pressure and sending signals to the car’s computer. If it is faulty or damaged, it can cause false readings and a bad oil pump diagnosis.
Replacing the oil pressure sensor is a simple fix that can be done at home. It is recommended to use a high-quality sensor to ensure accurate readings.
The cost to replace the oil pump
The cost to replace an oil pump can vary extensively. The cost of an oil pump can range from less than $100 to almost $500, but you will also need to replace gaskets that are removed to access the pump.
The labor cost to replace an oil pump can vary wildly, depending on how deep into the engine the mechanic needs to dive to access the pump.
Expect to see prices ranging from a low of $250 for an easily accessible oil pump to $1,000 or more for a pump that is buried inside the engine.
You’ll also find all the gaskets, gasket sealants, fluids, and tools that you need to get the job done right. If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.
Preventive Measures for Maintaining a Healthy Oil Pump
Regular Oil Changes
Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining a healthy oil pump. Over time, oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other impurities, which can cause the oil pump to work harder and wear out faster.
By changing the oil at the recommended intervals, you can ensure that your oil pump is always lubricated with clean oil, reducing the risk of damage and prolonging its lifespan.
Using the Right Type of Oil
Using the right type of oil for your engine is crucial for ensuring that your oil pump functions properly.
Different engines require different types of oil, so it’s important to consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic to determine the best oil for your vehicle.
Using the wrong type of oil can lead to increased friction and wear on the oil pump, eventually causing it to fail.
Keeping the Engine Clean
Keeping your engine clean is another important preventive measure for maintaining a healthy oil pump. Dirt and debris can build up in the engine over time, clogging the oil pump and preventing it from circulating oil effectively.
Regularly inspecting and cleaning your engine can help prevent these issues and ensure that your oil pump continues to operate smoothly.
FAQs.
Q: What happens when you have no oil pressure?
The low oil pressure light is a warning that there’s not enough oil pressure or that the oil level is too low.
Low oil pressure means the oil will not be able to navigate the narrow engine passages to provide lubrication. Lack of lubrication can cause the engine to seize up or cause damage beyond repair.
Q: Where is the oil pump located?
The oil pump is the heart of the vehicle lubrication system. Traditional wet sump engines have a single oil pump that is located at the bottom part of the engine, either below or beside the vehicle crankshaft.
Oil pumps are located close to the crankshaft because they are directly driven by the shaft to suck up oil from the oil pan and force it around the engine and back to the sump for recirculation.
Q: What does it mean when your oil gauge goes up and down?
Oil pressure fluctuation can be a normal operation for your vehicle. The oil pump is driven directly by the crankshaft, and the faster the car goes, the more the oil pump circulates, which leads to a higher pressure.
However, not every pressure gauge is accurate, and fluctuating readings can mean that the gauge is faulty.
It can also mean that you have low oil levels or a broken pump. The best thing to do when your oil gauge goes up and down is to get your car checked by a mechanic.
The mechanic may diagnose your engine with a blocked oil filter which causes high-pressure gauge readings. The mechanic can advise you to replace the filter and change the oil to fix the problem.
Q: Can a Bad Oil Filter Cause Low Pressure?
Oil filters are other significant parts of oil pressure regulation in a car engine. Using a faulty or wrong oil filter can cause clogging and substantial pressure drops.
Efficient oil filters and relief valves allow adequate pressure regulation by preventing spikes in oil circulation.
Malfunctioning filters will either provide too much or too little oil to the engine lubrication system. Therefore, a bad oil filter can lead to low oil pressure within an engine.
Q: How long does it take to change an oil pump?
The time you need to replace a faulty oil pump depends on your skills, experience, and the efficiency of your mechanic tools box.
Although you can save a substantial amount of money by changing it yourself, we recommend that you employ the services of a qualified mechanic to change your oil pump. An experienced mechanic will need a little over an hour to replace your oil pump.
Final Words
An oil pump is one of the most essential parts of a vehicle’s engine. It provides oil in the required pressure levels for adequate lubrication of the bearings and other mechanical parts of the engine.
In addition to providing lubrication and allowing the mechanical engine parts to rotate efficiently, the oil is also responsible for temperature regulation to avoid overheating.
Therefore, every car owner should watch out for damaged oil pump symptoms to avoid unprecedented mechanical damage due to low oil pressure.