Parts for your 2018 Mitsubishi Asx-Oil pump

2018 Mitsubishi ASX oil pump — what it does and when to service it

Yes, the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX does use an engine oil pump. Technical references that document this include the Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for the 4B1-series MIVEC petrol used in AU/NZ ASX models (Lubrication System section, Group 12) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for ASX GA1W/GA2W, both of which show a crankshaft-driven internal trochoid (gerotor) oil pump located within the front (timing) case. Diesel variants likewise feature an engine-driven pump in their lubrication systems.

On the 2018 ASX, the oil pump’s job is straightforward but critical: it pulls oil from the sump, pressurises it, and feeds a steady flow through galleries to bearings, cams and the MIVEC hardware so everything stays lubricated and cool. Without proper oil pressure, metal touches metal and things go pear-shaped very quickly. The pump is designed to last the life of the engine, provided the correct oil is used and changed on time.

Because the pump is tucked behind the timing cover and driven off the crank, it isn’t a routine “service item”. What owners and workshops should focus on is looking after the lubrication system so the pump can do its job:

• Stick to the factory oil and filter intervals and use the manufacturer-specified viscosity and quality.
• Keep the sump and pickup clean — avoid overusing sealant on the timing cover or sump that can break off and block the pickup.
• Investigate any oil leaks from the front cover area promptly.

When might an oil pump need replacement? It’s uncommon, but consider it if verified low oil pressure is present (tested with a mechanical gauge), there’s excessive internal wear during an engine rebuild, or when the front cover is already off for major work. Symptoms can include the low oil-pressure light at hot idle, rattly timing/valvetrain noise after warm-up, or metallic debris in the oil. If the oil light comes on while driving, don’t push your luck — stop, check the level under the bonnet, and arrange a tow if the light stays on.

Replacement is a workshop job. Expect to drain fluids, remove ancillary drives and the timing cover, then fit the new pump with new seals and RTV where specified. Always prime the pump with clean oil before start-up, replace the pickup O-ring, and verify pressure with a gauge after the first fire. Using genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts and following the service manual procedures will keep the ASX happy for many kilometres.

Popular questions

How often should the 2018 ASX oil pump be replaced?

It isn’t a scheduled replacement item. With correct oil and filter changes, the pump is intended to last the life of the engine. Replacement is considered only if low oil pressure is confirmed, there’s evidence of internal wear, or the front cover is already off for related repairs.

What are the warning signs of a failing oil pump on an ASX?

The big clues are the oil-pressure warning lamp flickering at hot idle, increased valvetrain or timing noise once warm, and metal particles found during an oil change. Verification with a mechanical gauge is essential before condemning the pump, as poor-quality oil, a blocked pickup or a faulty sensor can mimic the same symptoms.

Is it safe to keep driving if the oil light comes on?

No. Pull over and shut the engine down as soon as it’s safe. Check the oil level, if the light remains on after topping up, don’t drive it — have the vehicle towed to a workshop. Running with low or no oil pressure can cause severe engine damage in minutes.