A vehicle’s engine depends on a constant supply of oil to reduce friction and heat from moving parts. Oil pressure delivers this vital fluid through a complex network of internal passageways within the engine block and cylinder heads. Low oil pressure causes catastrophic engine failure from extreme temperatures and metal-to-metal contact of internal components. You must pay attention to the signs of a failing Chevy oil pump to avoid costly damage to your engine. The oil pump maintains proper lubrication throughout the entire engine.
Identifying Signs of a Failing Oil Pump
You can discover several noticeable symptoms of a problem with your vehicle’s oil pump that require your immediate attention. Many vehicles feature a dashboard oil pressure gauge that provides a visual representation of your engine’s current oil pressure. An oil pressure warning light also illuminates when the oil pressure drops below a predetermined safe operating level. A flickering oil pressure light, especially at idle, can also indicate a failing oil pump. A constant low-pressure reading or a sudden drop in oil pressure can also be a clear indication of a problem with the oil pump.
Steps to Take When Oil Pump Fails
You take immediate action when you suspect an oil pump failure to prevent further engine damage.
• Stop Driving: Driving a vehicle with a failing oil pump causes irreversible damage to the engine in a very short amount of time. You must pull over to a safe location and turn the engine off immediately once you notice any symptoms of low oil pressure. Continued driving without proper oil lubrication results in expensive engine damage and often requires a full engine replacement. Discontinue the drive and seek professional help to diagnose the specific problem with your vehicle. The complete loss of oil pressure prevents all the internal engine parts from getting any lubrication and they quickly start to rub against each other.
• Check Oil Level: A low oil level can also cause a decrease in oil pressure, which may mimic the symptoms of a failing oil pump. You must check the engine's oil level to confirm you have an adequate amount of oil in the engine. Locate the oil dipstick, remove it, wipe it clean, and reinsert it completely before you check the level. If the oil level is too low, you can add more oil to reach the proper level on the dipstick. If the oil pressure returns to normal after adding oil, the problem was simply a lack of oil rather than a bad pump. A leak in the oil pan or a worn-out gasket can cause a low oil level.
• Inspect for Leaks: A failing oil pump sometimes causes an external oil leak. You must visually inspect the area around the oil pump and the oil pan for any signs of a leak. A leaking oil pump gasket can allow oil to seep out, causing a drop in oil pressure. A visual inspection of the engine bay and the ground underneath the vehicle provides important clues to help you identify the source of the problem. A leak in the oil cooler or oil filter housing can also cause a drop in oil pressure. A professional technician can properly diagnose the exact cause of the leak.
• Professional Diagnosis: A trained and certified mechanic must properly diagnose the exact cause of your oil pressure issues. They possess the knowledge, training, and specialized tools needed to correctly identify a failing oil pump. A professional diagnosis helps avoid unnecessary repairs and ensures the proper parts and procedures get used for the repair. A professional diagnosis helps you determine if the problem is a bad oil pressure sensor, a clogged oil filter, or a faulty oil pump. A professional diagnosis gives you peace of mind that the problem gets fixed correctly the first time.
Book Professional Chevy Oil Pump Repair Services in Ohio
We here at Sarchione Chevy of Randolph want to help you protect your investment in your vehicle with our expert service. Our expert technicians perform certified Chevy oil pump repair services in Ohio to ensure your engine receives the oil it needs to operate correctly and last a long time. We offer professional Chevy oil pump replacement in Ohio using quality parts to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability. Schedule your service with Sarchione Chevy of Randolph today and feel secure knowing your vehicle is in good hands.