Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Air Pump

An air pump, also commonly referred to as a smog pump, is an emissions component that is part of the secondary air injection system. It is responsible for pumping clean air into the vehicle’s exhaust stream to promote a cleaner and more complete burn before the fumes exit the tailpipe. By injecting clean air into the exhaust, the amount of hydrocarbon pollutants produced by the vehicle is reduced, as the entire system is finely tuned to run with the air provided by the air pump.

When it fails, the overall performance of the engine may suffer due to the lack of air. Many states also have strict emissions regulations for their road going vehicles, and any problems with the air pump or the air injection system can not only cause performance problems, but also cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test. Usually, a failed air pump will produce a few noticeable symptoms that can alert the driver that the vehicle requires attention.

1. Engine is running rough

One of the first symptoms of a bad or failing smog pump is a rough running engine. When a smog pump fails the finely tuned air-fuel ratios can be upset, and it will negatively affect the performance of the engine. The engine may have trouble idling, and may drop in engine speed, or stall when the pedal is pressed.

2. Reduced horsepower

Another common symptom of a bad air pump is a reduction in power output from the engine. Again, a failed smog pump can upset the tune of the vehicle, which will negatively impact overall engine performance. A failed air pump may cause the engine to hesitate or stumble on acceleration, and in more serious cases, cause a noticeable reduction in total power output.

3. Check Engine Light comes on

Another symptom that may be indicative of a bad air pump is an illuminated Check Engine Light. This will usually only occur after the computer has detected the air pump has completely failed, or an electrical problem with the air pump circuit has occurred. A Check Engine Light can also be caused by other problems, so it is important to have the computer scanned for trouble codes before making any repairs.

The air pump is an important component of the emissions system, and necessary to keep your vehicle running in proper order so that it can meet the proper emission requirements. If you suspect that your air pump may be having a problem, or your Check Engine Light has come on, have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional technician, such as one from YourMechanic. If necessary, they will be able to replace the air pump and restore proper performance to your vehicle.


Next Step

Schedule Exhaust and Emission System Inspection

The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Exhaust and Emission System Inspection. Once the problem has been diagnosed, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $20.00 off as a credit towards the repair. YourMechanic’s technicians bring the dealership to you by performing this job at your home or office 7-days a week between 7AM-9PM. We currently cover over 2,000 cities and have 100k+ 5-star reviews... LEARN MORE

SEE PRICING & SCHEDULING

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Recent Exhaust and Emission System Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(4)

Rating Summary
3
0
0
0
1
3
0
0
0
1

MICHAEL

34 years of experience
184 reviews
MICHAEL
34 years of experience
Mercury Mountaineer V6-4.0L - Exhaust and Emission System - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Did everything he could to track down a emissions code, after all recommended to replace a bad PCM.

Pedro

23 years of experience
35 reviews
Pedro
23 years of experience
Infiniti Q60 V6-3.0L Turbo - Exhaust and Emission System - Woodland Hills, California
Very professional and honest. Was fortunate to have him be the one to show up. Thank you Pedro!

Anthony

29 years of experience
114 reviews
Anthony
29 years of experience
Hyundai Sonata L4-2.4L - Exhaust and Emission System - Moriches, New York
Anthony was very knowledgeable in diagnosing the problem with my car. explained everything that needed to be done in terms that I could understand. I would use this service again.

Michael

26 years of experience
82 reviews
Michael
26 years of experience
Ford F-150 V8-5.8L - Electric Problems - Tacoma, Washington
Good

Need Help With Your Car?

Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2,000 U.S. cities. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair.

GET A QUOTE

Related articles

P0713 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0713 means the automatic transmission fluid is too hot due to low or dirty transmission fluid, slipping or damaged transmission or damaged wiring.
P0290 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 10 Contribution/Balance Fault
P0290 code means that the cylinder is contributing less power and that there is a fuel delivery problem due to a faulty or clogged fuel injector.
B2102 OBD-II Trouble Code: Antenna Circuit Short to Ground
B2102 trouble code means the antenna circuit has a malfunction, cause by defective electrical components or antenna mast, or a failed antenna cable.

Related questions

Getting error code P0304
P0304 means the engine computer has detected a severe misfire on cylinder 4. This could be due to a bad ignition coil, spark plug, fuel injector, or valve train issue. If the issue is not resolved, further damage to the...
Gas cap warning light stays on
I would take it back to the dealer that put the tank in and have them check their installation of the fuel tank. The lights should be off and no leaks detected with the new fuel tank. You may have...
Why does my Mini Cooper rev and shakes when I am stopped at a red light
Hello. This can be caused by a number of things. Since the check engine light is on you more than likely have a misfire or a faulty sensor. I would usually start by scanning the computer for codes to see...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com