How an Oil Pump Works

DIY

Engines and Components

Brian Jones

September 01, 2023

Brian Jones

September 01, 2023

The primary purpose of an oil pump - opens in new window or tab. is to supply engine oil under pressure to various motor parts, including the camshaft, pistons, and bearings. The oil lubricates these vital components and reduces friction between the moving parts. Oil also prevents the motor from seizing.

Oil Pump Basics

The oil pump delivers lubricating fluid throughout the engine’s passages and galleries. It’s located either inside the oil pan - opens in new window or tab., where it’s driven by the camshaft - opens in new window or tab., or outside the pan with the crankshaft - opens in new window or tab. driving it.

Oil is pulled from the pan and through a filter that removes debris before it enters the pump. Then, the pump pressurizes the fluid to move throughout the engine’s passageways.

There are two standard pump designs:

Gear - This oil pump has two gears inside that create suction. As the gears rotate, the oil is pulled through the inlet into the pump. When the oil is pushed through the outlet, it is a pressurized fluid.
Rotor - This oil pump uses an inner and outer rotor. The lobes of these rotors turn to pull the oil through the inlet and push it through the outlet as a pressurized fluid.

An oil pressure relief valve is found at the outlet of the pump to ensure the pressure remains within an appropriate range. The desired pressure is typically between 10 and 80 psi, but it varies by engine design.

Shop now for oil pumps - opens in new window or tab.

Symptoms of a Bad Oil Pump

An oil pump stops working due to mechanical failure or a lack of fluid. Within minutes, the engine can fail because of reduced oil pressure.

Here are a few symptoms to watch for:

Melling high volume Chevrolet LS V-8 oil pump

Dashboard Warning Lights

Engine sensors monitor oil pressure, and if it has dropped too low, the oil pressure warning light comes on. This problem may also signal the check engine light - opens in new window or tab..

Low Oil Pressure

When a pump starts to fail, it can’t pressurize the oil. Without the right amount of pressure, engine components (crankshaft, camshaft, bearings, etc.) become starved of oil.

Engine Noise

If the engine isn’t getting enough oil, strange sounds - opens in new window or tab. follow. You may hear ticking, tapping, rattling, or knocking sounds, depending on the condition. All of these noises should be taken seriously.

Vehicle Doesn’t Start

Without the right amount of oil pressure, the engine may not start. Some vehicles automatically cut fuel delivery when there’s not enough oil pressure in order to protect the engine.

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How to Replace an Oil Pump

Replace the oil pump on your own only if you have an advanced knowledge of mechanics. This job is beyond the scope of the home mechanic who normally handles regular maintenance.

Here are the typical pump replacement steps:

Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Raise the front of the vehicle with your floor jack.
Secure the vehicle on jack stands.
Drain the oil.
Remove the serpentine belt - opens in new window or tab..
Remove the oil pan bolts.
Remove the oil pan.
Remove the bolts holding the oil pump to the crankcase or block.
While holding the oil pump that’s driven by the crankshaft, press the tensioner to create slack in the timing chain so the pump is freed.
Clean off the surfaces with brake cleaner.
Install the new oil pump and tighten the bolts to factory torque specs.
Reinstall the timing chain on the pump driven by the crankshaft.
Hold the oil pan in place while hand-tightening the bolts.
Fill the engine with the appropriate amount of oil.

Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Start the engine and run it briefly while you listen for any strange sounds. Turn off the engine, check for leaks, and double-check the oil level before driving anywhere.

The average cost to replace an oil pump is between $100 and $450 if you do the work yourself, although it varies by the type of vehicle. You may spend from $450 to $1,500 to have a professional mechanic replace the oil pump.

Oil Pump Maintenance

Regular car maintenance - opens in new window or tab. is essential if you want the oil pump to last as long as possible. Here are some tips to keep the oil pump in good condition.

Perform regular oil changes - opens in new window or tab. so the pump remains free of debris.
Replace the oil filter - opens in new window or tab..
Monitor oil pressure and stop driving if it falls below the normal parameters.
Watch for leaks - opens in new window or tab., which can cause engine damage. Fix any leaks at the first sign of trouble.

Shop now for oil pumps - opens in new window or tab.

About the author

Brian Jones

Brian worked for several decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician in dealerships before starting his used car lot. Today, he writes for top automotive publications including Motor1. In his spare time, he's dreaming of an escape to the country's best trails in an off-road beast.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.