Oil Sump repair & replacement made easy

The engine oil sump is the collection point for the oil being returned from around the engine, so it can be pumped back round again.

The engine oil sump is bolted to the bottom of the engine block as the lowest point of the unit. There is either usually a gasket or sealant to prevent the oil seeping out of the join.

The sump will have a sump plug in it, that allows easy access for the oil to be drained out and some engines also have an oil level sensor in them as well.

The design of the sump may have internal cells and plates to prevent the oil from moving about under the g forces of the car's direction and ensure that the oil strainer pickup for the pump is always emerged.

• You have a sudden loss of oil pressure (with associated oil pressure warning light).
• You notice a large patch of oil under the engine
• After hitting something in the road, the low oil pressure warning light comes on
• The oil sump plug has been cross threaded
• The oil sump has corroded

Quite simply, as soon as there is a known problem with it. Any issue can very quickly escalate and leave the engine without oil and damaged.

It isn’t a common job, however with more and more speed bumps and potholes, the frequency is increasing as motorists spot the too late and hit the obstacles a little too hard.

How can I extend the life of my oil sump pan?
The only thing you can do is to be vigilant about what is on the road and not to go over kerbs etc wherever possible.

• Mechanic will drain the oil from the sump.
• The oil sump pan will be removed and the bottom surface of the engine block cleaned.
• A new sump pan will be fitted and sealed with a new gasket or sealant and bolted into place.
• The engine oil will then be replenished and a new filter fitted.
• Mechanic will run the engine and ensure there are no leaks.