The oil pump supplies oil to the engine while it’s running. This lubrication prevents metal-on-metal contact and overheating.
While the oil pump may seem heavy-duty, the pump does have its limitations and can fail sooner or later. That’s why it’s important to recognize a bad oil pump and replace it when it fails. Otherwise, you could be looking at much more expensive repairs down the road.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Oil Pump
Oil pump failure signs are fairly explicit, and some are more immediate than others. The objective is to observe warning signs early in the failure process.
Typically, oil pumps are only dealt with after an issue has arisen. Once there is a true issue, engine damage can happen quickly.
#1. Low Oil Pressure/Oil Pressure Warning Light Switches On.
Oil pressure is maintained and regulated by the oil pump. When the oil pump is not functioning correctly, the oil pressure will decline in the engine. In most cases, the first indication of declining oil pressure is recognized on your dashboard with the low oil pressure warning light turning on.
As this warning light has turned on, check your oil to determine what your oil level is. If your oil level is too low, add oil until your oil level is normal. If your low oil pressure light is still indicating low pressure, the oil pump is bad. Change the pump immediately before the symptom declines.
#2. Increased Engine Temperature.
As oil is pumped into the engine, oil lubricates and cools the metal surfaces of the engine that are in motion. If the engine is not receiving enough oil, the metals come into contact with one another and generate heat.
Dashboards have a warning light that comes on that signals the engine’s temperature is high after heat is generated.
After the engine becomes overheated, damage can occur to your engine and its components. An engine that has been damaged is expensive to fix, as it could cost thousands, so you should get to a mechanic immediately after the temperature warning light…
#3. Valve-Train Noise.
There are important components in the valve-train system that keep the engine running. The valve-train contains hydraulic lifters, push rods, seals, and valve guides.
All these oil components need oil to flow through them for lubrication. Without lubrication, some or all of the components can seize into one another and cease to function, and not work.
The valve train will be extremely noisy as your oil levels decrease.
#4. Oil Pump Noise.
Noisy oil pumps are rare. You’ll only get a noisy oil pump when it’s failing. A whirring, whining sound would come even without the vehicle running.
If you hear this sound, it’s a sign that the gear that’s inside the oil pump is worn out; the whole oil pump will need replacing.
#5. Hydraulic Lifters Noise.
Hydraulic lifters are very important to keep your valve train operating. The hydraulic lifters will not operate correctly unless they are provided with adequate lubrication from oil.
A malfunctioning oil pump will lose oil pressure to the point where oil will not be able to flow into the engine’s hydraulic lifters.
When there is inadequate lubrication of the hydraulic lifters, that will cause a noise. If your hydraulic lifters are defective, they will wear out quickly. On some cars, the oil you choose will have a direct effect on hydraulic lifters and noise.
#6. Blue Smoke from the Exhaust Pipe.
This is also an indication of a problem with the oil pump or some other oil-related problem. Blue smoke from the exhaust pipe is a clear indication of an oil-related issue.
When an oil pump isn’t primary function, it may lose oil pressure. This can cause oil to seep past the piston rings and worn valve seals into the combustion chamber.
When the engine burns this oil, along with the fuel, the next thing you know, blue smoke comes pouring out of your exhaust pipe. Blue smoke may be more noticeable when you start your vehicle or accelerate.
Besides indicating oil pump trouble, burning oil degrades engine performance, and environmentally, you’ll be contributing to more emissions.
Regardless of whether it’s your oil pump or another issue, it won’t hurt to monitor your oil level and add oil as necessary, because the blue haze means you’re burning oil.
Oil Pump Failure Causes
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.
Cost of Replacing an Oil Pump
There are two primary prices associated with replacing an oil pump: parts cost and labor cost to remove the old pump and install the new one. You can always replace the part yourself to save yourself costs, but a mistake could make things worse.
A new oil pump will cost you $100 to $300, depending on the make and model of your car.
As for labor costs, you can expect to pay about $200 or $300. This is because it will take a few hours for the mechanics to complete this type of job. Therefore, you can expect to pay about $300 to $600 to have your oil pump replaced.
Can I Replace an Oil Pump Myself?
Most car owners replace an oil pump at a mechanic shop, since replacing the oil pump is a labor-intensive job requiring special tools and employees.
The oil pump is usually located deep inside the engine; sometimes it can require lots of disassembly to remove. Even a skilled DIY mechanic may find replacing the oil pump a long and complicated chore.
It is possible for a competent home mechanic to replace an oil pump on a vehicle, particularly if the vehicle is older and the engine is simple.
If you understand engines, have access to the right tools, and a good repair manual for your vehicle’s specific make and model, it can be undertaken. Remember, mistakes can lead to critical engine damage, resulting in additional repair costs.
If you decide to replace the oil pump yourself, ask yourself what your mechanical ability is and what kind of engine you have. If you doubt your ability, it may be safer and a better value to have the oil pump replaced by a professional.