Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Oil pump

2017 Subaru Impreza Oil Pump: What it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2017 Subaru Impreza absolutely uses an engine oil pump, and it’s a key bit of kit. Technical documentation backs this up: the Subaru Service Manual for the 2017MY Impreza (FB-series engine, Lubrication section) details the crankshaft-driven internal gear (trochoid) oil pump, and Subaru’s OEM parts catalogue lists a complete oil pump assembly for the FB20D engine used in this model. Subaru’s technical training material for FB engines also describes the pump’s integrated pressure relief valve and its location within the timing chain/front cover.

The oil pump’s job is simple but critical: it pressurises and circulates engine oil to bearings, camshafts, and the timing components so everything stays lubricated and cool. On the 2017 Impreza’s FB20D, the pump is a positive-displacement gerotor style driven directly off the crank, which means fast oil pressure build on start-up and reliable flow across the rev range. No pump, no pressure—no pressure, no engine.

It’s not a routine replacement item, but it relies on clean oil. Sticking to the logbook service interval (typically every 12,500–15,000 kilometres or 12 months in AU/NZ conditions) and using the specified full-synthetic 0W-20 with a quality filter keeps the pump happy. If they’re noticing a flickering oil light, noisy lifters on warm idle, or persistent timing chain rattle, it’s time for a proper oil pressure test and inspection rather than guessing.

• Common red flags: low oil pressure warning, rumbling/knock on hot idle, metal debris in the oil or filter, or sludge history.
• Contributing causes: extended drain intervals, incorrect viscosity, blocked pickup screen, or relief valve sticking.

Thinking about replacement? It’s not a Saturday-arvo driveway job. The front cover has to come off, and correct sealant application and torquing are essential. A competent tech will:

1. Verify actual oil pressure with a gauge and rule out bearing wear or a blocked pickup first.
2. Remove the timing/front cover, inspect the pickup and O-rings, and check the relief valve for scoring.
3. Prime the new pump with clean oil, replace all relevant seals, and use the OEM-specified sealant pattern on the cover.
4. Torque fasteners to the Subaru spec, refill with fresh oil and filter, and confirm pressure on first start.

For owners after the nitty-gritty, the Subaru Service Manual (2017MY Impreza, Engine: Lubrication—Oil Pump) and the Subaru Genuine Parts catalogue (Engine > Oil Pump Assembly for FB20D) are the go-to technical sources used by dealers and specialists.

FAQs

Does the 2017 Subaru Impreza have an oil pump, and what type is it?
Yes. It runs a crankshaft-driven internal gear (trochoid/gerotor) oil pump integrated into the timing/front cover, with an internal pressure relief valve—exactly as outlined in Subaru’s service literature for the FB20D engine.

When should the oil pump be replaced on a 2017 Impreza?
There’s no scheduled replacement interval. It’s replaced if confirmed low oil pressure is traced to pump wear or a sticking relief valve, or if there’s damage from debris. Proper diagnosis with a mechanical gauge comes first.

What are the signs of a failing oil pump on this model?
Warning light for low oil pressure (especially hot idle), rattly top-end on warm starts, or persistent timing chain noise. Always check oil level/condition and filter first, then test actual pressure before calling the pump.