The function of the automotive engine oil pump flow control valve
The flow control valve of the car's oil pump, often referred to as the oil pump pressure limiting valve, primarily functions to regulate and control the maximum oil pressure in the engine lubrication system, preventing damage to components such as the oil pump, oil passages, and seals due to excessive pressure.
The specific working principle and function are as follows:
Pressure regulation: When the engine speed increases or the oil viscosity increases, the supply of oil by the oil pump will increase, causing the oil pressure in the main oil passage to rise. The internal structure of the limiting valve consists of a spring and a valve core. When the oil pressure exceeds the set safety threshold, the oil pressure will overcome the spring force, push open the valve core, and allow some of the oil to flow through the limiting valve directly back to the oil pump's intake port (i.e., "pressure relief"), thereby stabilizing the main oil passage oil pressure within a reasonable range.
Protecting the system safety: Excessive oil pressure may cause the oil filter to rupture, oil pipe joints to leak, valve cover gaskets in the valve chamber, or oil seals at the front and rear of the crankshaft, etc. to be damaged. The limiting valve, as a safety device, can effectively prevent such faults and ensure the long-term reliable operation of the lubrication system.
No external control required: This valve is a purely mechanical structure that achieves automatic regulation relying on the oil pressure itself. It does not require the participation of an electronic control unit (ECU). The structure is simple and the response is rapid.
It should be noted that in some materials, the "flow control valve" often refers to similar components in the steering system or fuel system, while in the oil pump system, the more accurate term is "limiting valve" or "safety valve", whose core function is to limit pressure rather than simply regulating flow.
The damage to the oil pump flow control electromagnetic valve (usually referring to the oil pressure control electromagnetic valve or similar components) will seriously affect the normal operation of the vehicle. It is not recommended to continue driving.
This electromagnetic valve is a key control component of the engine lubrication system, responsible for regulating the oil pressure and flow to ensure that each component of the engine receives adequate lubrication. Once damaged, it will cause abnormal oil pressure, thereby triggering a series of chain problems.
Main impacts include:
Insufficient engine lubrication: Low or unstable oil pressure causes the internal parts of the engine (such as camshafts, valve mechanisms, bearings, etc.) to fail to receive sufficient lubrication, accelerating wear.
Engine abnormal noise and vibration: Poor lubrication will cause obvious engine noise (such as "clattering") and accompanied by unstable idle or shaking during driving.
Power loss and acceleration weakness: For some models, the oil pressure control electromagnetic valve is linked with the variable valve timing (VVT) system. Once damaged, it will cause abnormal valve timing, resulting in interrupted power output and slow acceleration.
Risk of engine overheating: Oil not only lubricates but also participates in heat dissipation. Abnormal flow may affect the engine's heat dissipation efficiency, increasing the risk of overheating.
Automatic engine protection limit: The ECU (engine control unit) of modern vehicles will trigger a protection mode when detecting abnormal oil pressure, limiting the engine speed and power output to prevent severe damage. At this time, the vehicle may "limp home" with a significant performance decline.
Potential severe engine damage: Long-term driving with the electromagnetic valve damaged may lead to cylinder scoring, bearing seizure, and other irreversible engine damage. The repair cost is extremely high. Suggestion:
Stop immediately for inspection: If the dashboard displays an oil pressure warning light, the engine fault light comes on, or if you feel a significant loss of power or abnormal noises, you must stop the vehicle safely.
Contact professional repair: Do not attempt to drive forcefully. Instead, contact a professional repair facility for diagnosis to determine if it is an electromagnetic valve failure and replace it promptly.
Regular maintenance: It is recommended to inspect the oil circuit system every 20,000 kilometers or so and use high-quality engine oil to reduce the risk of carbon buildup and blockages, thereby extending the lifespan of the electromagnetic valve.
In conclusion, after the oil pump flow control electromagnetic valve is damaged, not only will the vehicle's driving performance significantly decline, but there is also a serious safety hazard. You must immediately stop driving and perform maintenance.
If you want to know more, keep reading the other articles on this site!
Please call us if you need such products.
Zhuo Meng Shanghai Auto Co., Ltd. is committed to selling MG&MAXUS auto parts welcome to buy.
