Losing lubrication in an engine will destroy it. The oil pump makes sure this doesn't happen by cycling oil through the engine and keeping it lubricated. In most cases, the oil pump lasts the lifetime of a car, but if there is an accident or if an engine needs overhauling, the oil pump in the Chevy Impala sometimes needs to be replaced.
Drive your vehicle up onto ramps or lifts so you have room to work as you pull out the oil pump. You could also use a jack, but make sure you brace the front wheels so they don't roll. In addition, set the emergency break firmly into position so the car doesn't roll and for added security, use jack stands and not just the jack.
Locate the plug on the back of the oil pan on your Chevy Impala. Place a drain pan underneath this plug. Then, remove the plug and drain the oil into this pan.
Find the negative battery cable around the oil pan and remove it. Take note of all the connections since you will be reconnecting the cable later in this process after you replace the old oil pump. Remove the bolt that attaches the oil pump to the rear crankshaft bearing cap.
Remove the old pump from the oil pan and replace it by inserting the new one in the same position as the old one. Also insert the driveshaft, which should be torqued to 30 in-lb.
Reinsert the oil pan and reconnect the negative battery cable. Put new synthetic oil into the engine.
Turn the vehicle on and check for leaks around all the parts replaced. Drive your car off the lifts if there are no leaks.
