Air Intake
Air Pump
An air pump, also called a secondary air injection pump or smog pump, blows fresh air into the exhaust to cut emissions during cold starts. We carry 36 air pumps from $71 to $348 for 1979-2014 vehicles. Chevrolet leads with the Impala and S10, along with the Toyota Tundra, Trailblazer and several Volkswagen, Audi and Volvo models.
Shop air pump by vehicle
Dorman Secondary Air Injection Pump 306-010 for Chevrolet Impala
Fits 2000–2002 models
Dorman Secondary Air Injection Pump 306-010 for Chevrolet S10
Fits 2000–2002 models
What the pump does
For the first minute or so after a cold start, the pump pushes air into the exhaust manifold or converter. The extra oxygen helps burn off unburned fuel and warms the catalytic converter faster.
When the pump fails, the check engine light usually comes on with secondary air injection codes. You may hear a loud whine, buzz or roar from the pump at startup, or nothing at all. Water getting into the pump through a failed check valve is a common cause of failure.
Pump types and contents
Older vehicles often use a belt driven smog pump, while most later vehicles use an electric pump. Check that the listing matches your design. Some listings note whether a pulley is included.
Package contents vary. Some include a gasket, connector and mounting hardware, and some are the pump alone. Brands here include AC Delco, Dorman, A1 Cardone, SKP, DIY Solutions and Standard Motor Products.
Fitment and install
Read the fitment table for engine size and emissions package. Compare the hose outlets, mounting points and electrical connector with your old pump.
Before installing a new pump, check the check valve and hoses. If the old pump failed because exhaust or water reached it, a bad check valve will kill the new pump too. Clear the codes after install and confirm the pump runs briefly on the next cold start.
Air Pump questions
What does a secondary air injection pump do?
It pumps fresh air into the exhaust after a cold start. This helps burn excess fuel and heats the catalytic converter quickly, which cuts emissions.
Can I drive with a failed air pump?
The engine will usually run normally, but the check engine light stays on and the vehicle may fail an emissions inspection.
Why did my air pump fail?
A common cause is a failed check valve that lets moisture or exhaust back into the pump. Check the valve and hoses before fitting a new pump.