Oil Pump: Inspection

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lexus IS 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. INSPECT RELIEF VALVE 

    Coat the valve with engine oil and check that it falls smoothly into the valve hole under its own weight.

    If it doesn't, replace the relief valve. If necessary, replace the oil pump assembly.

  2. INSPECT ROTORS 
    1. Place the rotors into the oil pump body (See REASSEMBLY  ).
      Fig 1: Inspecting Relief Valve
      G00890141Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    2. Inspect the rotors for the tip clearance.

      Using a feeler gauge, measure the clearance between the drive and driven rotors.

      1. Standard tip clearance: 0.060 - 0.240 mm (0.0024 - 0.0094 in.) Maximum tip clearance: 0.30 mm (0.0118 in.) 

      If the tip clearance is greater than maximum, replace the rotors as a set.

      Fig 2: Measuring Clearance Between Drive And Driven Rotors
      G00890142Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    3. Inspect the rotor for the body clearance.

      Using a feeler gauge, measure the clearance between the driven rotor and pump body.

      1. Standard body clearance: 0.100 - 0.175 mm (0.0039 - 0.0069 in.) Maximum body clearance: 0.20 mm (0.0079 in.) 

      If the body clearance is greater than maximum, replace the rotors as a set. If necessary, replace the oil pump assembly.

      Fig 3: Measuring Clearance Between Driven Rotor And Pump Body
      G00890143Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    4. Inspect the rotors for the side clearance.

      Using a feeler gauge and precision straight edge, measure the clearance between the rotors and precision straight edge.

      1. Standard side clearance: 0.030 - 0.090 mm (0.0012 - 0.0035 in.) Maximum side clearance: 0.12 mm (0.0047 in.) 

      If the side clearance is greater than maximum, replace the rotors as a set. If necessary, replace the oil pump assembly.

      Fig 4: Measuring Clearance Between Rotors And Precision Straight Edge
      G00890144Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    5. Remove the rotors.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.