What are the symptoms of the oil pump nearing the end of its life? Sometimes when I start my car, the oil light comes on for a second (like normal), then it will flicker slightly before going out. It never comes on while driving, though. Thoughts? I may just go ahead and swap it out next time I change my timing belt (only 35K more miles before hitting 270K).

 

well since its a mechanical pump it either works or doesnt(gear wise), but the pressure valve in side the pump could be bad.

i had a problem with my oil system bleeding down the pressure from a worn valve( slow raising oil pressure) i replaced it with a new unit and its back to normal.