So, what does your engine oil pump actually do?
Alright, let’s make it simple. That engine oil pump under your car is the unsung hero that keeps things ticking over, especially with the sort of driving we do across Hamilton and out to Cambridge or Te Awamutu. Its job? Just pushes oil around the engine so all the moving parts – from the crankshaft down to little bits like valve lifters – stay nice and slick, no metal grinding where there shouldn’t be.
It sits down low near your oil pan, and it’s normally driven off the crankshaft. As you’re weaving through the lights on Victoria St, or dealing with potholes in Flagstaff or stop-start on Te Rapa Road, that pump’s hauling oil up from the sump, through the filter, then sending it all over the place inside the engine. Keeps things smooth, helps cool everything down a bit, stops all that heat building up in summer, and even cleans out some crud and debris floating around.
Now, these pumps are made to last a good long while – most folks won’t ever see one let go on their car. Still, with all the rough roads (cheers, Dinsdale), hard braking, or even the odd bottom-out over a Rototuna speed bump, sometimes they give up early. Changing one’s definitely a proper job, since it’s tucked away below or next to the crankshaft. Not something you’d want to do at home in your driveway unless you love a challenge!
What are the signs your oil pump’s packing it in?
- Low oil pressure: Noticed your oil warning light flicking on, or the pressure gauge looking low as you creep across the Fairfield Bridge? Bit of a red flag that – could be the pump.
- Strange engine noises: Any knocking, tapping, or even weird ticking as you drive down Hukanui Road, especially when you’re giving it a bit of jandal? Means parts aren’t being lubricated like they should be.
- Overheating: Not hard in a NZ summer, but if your engine’s getting hot around Chartwell or sweating it out in Ngaruawahia traffic, that could be poor oil flow from a dodgy pump.
- Engine warning light: That lovely “check engine” light popping up after you’ve just sorted a WOF Hamilton way? It can mean the oil pump isn’t playing ball.
- Engine damage: Worst case, it seizes. That’s honestly a motor done for – seen it a few times on older Peugeot 308s and the odd Mitsubishi Outlander from Tamahere.
If you spot any of those, don’t muck around. We’ve had folks, men and women both, from as far out as Morrinsville whose pumps went and it’s no fun replacing an engine. Best to get it checked as soon as you can – could save your wallet a serious hammering later.
Need a new engine oil pump in Hamilton? We can help
Heard some funny engine noises, or got that oil light pinging at you as you roll down Greenwood Street or head over to Raglan for the weekend? Bring it in, and our techs at Grimmer Motors will suss it. We replace engine oil pumps on everything from Mazda Demios and Toyota Aurises to the less common stuff like a SsangYong Korando or a Citroen C5 – hybrids and petrols both.
We know Hamilton roads aren’t always kind, and that NZ car problems are different to what you’ll see overseas. So, if you’re after quality car service Hamilton locals trust, we’ll get you sorted, fast and proper, with no mucking about.
Don’t push your luck with a crook oil pump – book in before things get ugly. Our team’s here to keep you rolling smooth, wherever your commute takes you.