Common Causes For Needing an Oil Pump Replacement

You may have to replace an oil pump for several reasons:

1. Worn-out Internal Components

Internal parts of an oil pump, like the drive gear, oil pump chain, and oil pressure relief valve, can wear out or break over time, causing your pump to malfunction. This also leads to reduced oil pressure and low oil levels, which can damage the engine.

2. Clogged Oil Pump

Engine oil can get contaminated with dirt or debris and form a sludge. This can clog the oil pump, reducing its efficiency and causing low oil pressure.

To unclog a blocked pump, clean the oil pickup tube and oil passage. If the blockage has damaged the oil pickup tube and other internal components, replace the pump entirely.

3. Insufficient Lubrication

A damaged or old oil pump may not generate enough pressure to move the oil through the engine’s passages and the oil filter. 

This leads to insufficient lubrication, causing increased friction and heat. Over time, it results in wear and tear, overheating, as well as severe engine damage. 

4. Engine Replacement or Repair

If you plan to rebuild or replace the engine, you’ll need to install a new oil pump.

Why?
The worn-out oil pump may not deliver oil efficiently to the engine, potentially ruining your brand-new engine.

How Much Does an Oil Pump Replacement Cost?

The cost of installing a new oil pump can vary from $1205 to $1625 or more. The oil pump replacement cost depends on your vehicle’s make (whether it’s a Chevrolet, Toyota, or Jeep) and the specific model.  

A new pump may cost between $415 and $425. Fixing and installing the new pump may take your mechanic a few hours to a full day. So the labor costs can fall around $750 to $1000.  

If your oil is dirty, you’ll need an oil change and an oil filter too. New oil and an oil filter typically cost between $40 and $200. 

Additionally, some cars require removing the front main seal to access the pump, so it’s best to replace it as well. 

But that’s not all. 

Your final bill for oil pump replacement will depend on a few other factors like:

• Source of the replacement parts – OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are more expensive than aftermarket parts. 
• Type of oil pump (manual or electric) and its warranty period
• Complexity of the repair work

How to Replace a Faulty Engine Oil Pump?

Replacing an old pump is complex, so it’s best to let your mechanic handle the repair. 

Here’s how they’ll perform an oil pump replacement: 

1. Park the vehicle on a solid, level surface and put the emergency brake on.

2. Place a drain pan under the engine, remove the oil plug, and let the oil drain out.

3. Use a jack stand to support and raise the front of the vehicle. 

4. Undo the oil pan bolt. Then, remove the oil pan and the oil pan gasket, ensuring it doesn’t get scratched.

5. Use a rag and scraper to clean the engine block and motor mount bolts. 

6. Locate the oil pickup tube and remove the pickup tube bolt. 

7. Next, remove the old pump by undoing the oil pump bolts and the pump-to-rear bearing cap bolt.

8. Install the new engine oil pump and torque the oil pump bolts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

9. Reattach the pickup tube and tighten the pickup tube bolt. 

10. Reinstall the oil pan gasket and the oil pan back onto the engine block. 

11. Then, reinstall the engine oil cap and each oil pan bolt according to the manufacturer’s specifications. 

12. Refill with clean engine oil. 

13. Run the engine for a while and monitor the oil level, ensuring there’s no oil leak.

14. Finally, recheck the engine oil pressure.

Why Is Oil Pump Failure a Critical Issue?

A failing oil pump that doesn’t offer proper lubrication can damage the internal gear and vital parts like the crankshaft, camshaft bearings, and the hydraulic lifter. This not only affects engine performance but can also cause complete engine failure. 

That’s why it’s important to identify the warning signs of a bad oil pump and replace it ASAP.

Low oil pressure and low oil flow are usually the first signs of an oil pump failure. 

How to tell if there’s low oil pressure? 

The oil-sending unit will trigger the low oil pressure light (oil light) on your dashboard. If your car has an oil pressure gauge, you’ll notice the gauge dial drop lower than usual. Your check engine light may also illuminate. 

You should only drive with a bad oil pump if you’re heading to an auto repair shop to fix it.

3 FAQs About Oil Pump Replacement

Let’s answer some commonly asked questions about an oil pump.

1. How Long Does an Engine Oil Pump Last?

The oil pump can last approximately 60,000 and 70,000 miles with proper maintenance. 

The longevity of this engine component depends on several factors, like driving habits and the quality of car parts. 

To increase the lifespan of an oil pump:

• Pay close attention to the oil pressure gauge.
• Monitor any spikes in engine temperature due to friction within engine parts.
• Check the oil level regularly.
• Ensure you have clean engine oil for smooth oil flow.
• Conduct an engine oil change and install a new oil filter when necessary to ensure clear oil passage.

2. How Can You Save On the Cost of Oil Pump Replacement?

 Here are some ways to save money on an oil pump replacement:

• Compare the labor charges of different repair shops to get the best deal.
• Choose aftermarket parts as they are usually less expensive than OEM parts. 
• If tight on budget, opt for a refurbished oil pump while making sure that it’s in good condition and comes with a warranty.

3. What Are the Common Signs of a Faulty Oil Pump?

Here are some key indicators to help you identify a failing oil pump: 

1. Low oil pressure
2. Increased engine temperature
3. Noisy engine
4. Vehicle not starting