Where is the engine oil pump located?
3 Answers
Most automotive engine oil pumps are installed inside the engine, while a small portion of vehicle oil pumps are mounted near the engine oil pan. The functions of the oil pump are as follows: 1. It pressurizes oil from the oil pan to the filter, ensuring that the oil can still be delivered to various lubrication channels and friction surfaces of moving parts after passing through the filter. 2. When the engine is running, the oil pump continuously operates to maintain uninterrupted circulation of oil within the lubrication system. 3. If the oil pump becomes damaged, symptoms such as abnormal noises, increased sound levels, and power loss may occur. Failure to address these issues promptly could lead to engine cylinder scoring, and in severe cases, may result in complete engine failure.
Having worked with engines for many years, I can tell you that the oil pump is usually hidden inside the oil pan. Once you remove the oil pan, you'll see this metal component tightly attached to the crankshaft. It acts like a diligent porter, using gears or rotor mechanisms to draw oil from the oil pan and deliver it to critical parts like bearings and pistons. I remember one time during a repair, I found the pump body completely clogged with sludge—the owner had driven about 20 kilometers with the oil light on, resulting in crankshaft damage. Regular oil changes are crucial; otherwise, metal shavings and carbon deposits can block the pump's intake. If you hear metal grinding noises from the engine or see an oil pressure warning, there's a high chance the pump is failing, and you should check it immediately.
Last time I changed the oil myself, I specifically studied it. The oil pump is actually that disc-shaped metal component installed at the very bottom of the engine. Looking up from under the car, you have to remove the black oil pan first to locate it. This thing is directly connected to the front end of the crankshaft, and it starts working as soon as the engine turns, pumping the sticky engine oil into all the gaps that need lubrication. I've found that the most common issue with older cars is wear on the pump's drive shaft—if the oil pressure drops, it accelerates piston ring damage. During routine maintenance, it's safest to have the mechanic check the pump's output pressure with a gauge. If it's below 2 BAR, you should be concerned. Replacing the pump is quite a hassle—you have to hoist out the engine, and the labor costs are much higher than the part itself.
