When To Replace Your Car's Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is an essential component of a car's fuel system, transferring fuel from the gas tank to the engine. Usually, fuel pumps are electrically powered and situated within or on the fuel tank. While fuel pumps are designed to last the lifespan of a vehicle, they may occasionally need to be replaced due to defects or malfunctions. Signs of a faulty fuel pump include difficulty in starting the engine, engine sputtering or stalling, poor acceleration and fuel economy, and unusual noises emanating from the fuel tank area. To ensure optimal performance and avoid potential breakdowns, it is crucial to be vigilant for any indications of fuel pump issues and address them promptly.

Signs of a failing fuel pump

The fuel pump is an essential part of your vehicle, drawing fuel from the gas tank to the engine to power your car. Usually, fuel pumps are designed to last the entire life of your vehicle, and you shouldn't have to replace them. However, there are instances where the fuel pump may start to fail, and you will need to replace it. Here are some signs that indicate a failing fuel pump:

Engine Won't Start or Struggles to Start

One of the most obvious signs of a failing fuel pump is that your car won't start because fuel isn't reaching the engine. If the car does start, it may require more cranks than usual, indicating that the fuel pump is not supplying enough fuel.

Intermittent Loss of Driving Power

If your fuel pump is failing, you may experience a loss of driving power, especially during acceleration or when driving at high speeds. This is because the pump cannot produce a constant stream of fuel to meet the engine's demand.

Loud Whining Noise from the Fuel Tank

A failing fuel pump may emit a loud, whining noise from the gas tank. Normally, the pump should make a low, barely noticeable hum. However, if the pitch increases significantly, it could indicate a problem with the pump.

Lower Fuel Efficiency

If your fuel pump is damaged, it may allow excess fuel to enter the engine, resulting in lower fuel efficiency. You may notice that you need to fill up your tank more frequently than usual.

Engine Surges or Sputters

A faulty fuel pump can cause the engine to surge or sputter. This is due to an inconsistent supply of fuel to the engine, resulting in speed spikes and drops during your drive.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your vehicle checked by a qualified technician to diagnose the issue comprehensively.

How to diagnose fuel pump issues

Fuel pumps are not usually replaced as part of regular maintenance and are generally only replaced when they show signs of failing. However, some car owners do choose to replace them as a preventative measure.

• If your car won't start, this could be a sign that your fuel pump is bad. However, there are many other reasons why a car won't start, so you should check for other issues first.
• If your car is jerking or stuttering at high speeds, or losing power when accelerating, this could be a sign that your fuel pump can't deliver a smooth flow of fuel to the engine.
• If your engine surges, this could be a sign that your fuel pump is wearing out. As components wear down at different rates, the pressure in your fuel lines can become inconsistent, leading to sudden acceleration even when you haven't pressed the gas pedal.
• If your car cuts off for no reason, this could be a sign that your fuel pump is failing. This is often caused by the pump getting too hot and can sometimes be temporarily fixed by waiting for the pump to cool down.
• If you can hear your fuel pump making unusual noises, it may be failing. A fuel pump in a modern fuel-injected car should not be audible at all, so if you can hear a whining drone, this could be a warning that your fuel pump is on the edge of failure.
• Check your car's fuse box; a blown fuel pump fuse is a reliable symptom of a failed pump.
• If your car is struggling with weak or inconsistent power, it may be time to replace the fuel pump.

If you think your fuel pump may be failing, it's best to schedule a service and have a trained technician perform a number of tests to isolate the true cause of the problem.

Fuel pump replacement cost

Fuel pumps are responsible for transferring fuel from the gas tank to the vehicle's engine. They are usually electrically powered and located directly in or on the fuel tank.

The cost of replacing a fuel pump varies depending on the vehicle's make and model, and the location of the vehicle. The average cost for a fuel pump replacement is between $992 and $1,321, with about 80% of the cost being the cost of the parts. Good quality fuel pump sets can cost between $200 to $1000. Labor costs can range from $150 to $350, but for more expensive vehicles with complex designs, the total cost to replace a fuel pump can be as high as $2,500.

There are two types of fuel pumps: mechanical and electric. Mechanical fuel pumps are found in older vehicles with carburetors, while electric fuel pumps are found in modern vehicles with fuel injection systems. Mechanical fuel pumps are generally less costly and easier to access, resulting in lower labor costs.

When replacing a fuel pump, it is recommended to also replace the fuel filters and the fuel pump relay if the vehicle has one, as these can also cause issues with fuel delivery. It is also important to clean the fuel tank before installing a new pump to reduce the risk of contamination.

Some signs that a fuel pump may be failing include difficulty starting the engine, unintentional power surges, sputtering while accelerating, and a whining noise coming from the fuel tank. If you experience any of these issues, it is important to have the vehicle diagnosed by a mechanic to determine the cause and make the necessary repairs.

Tips for fuel pump maintenance

The fuel pump is an essential part of a car, drawing fuel out of the tank through a pipe to the carburetor. It is important to maintain your fuel pump to ensure it functions properly and prolong its life. Here are some tips to help you do that:

Keep Fuel Levels Above a Quarter of a Tank

Gasoline acts as a coolant for in-tank fuel pumps. Running your car close to empty frequently can cause the fuel pump to overheat and suffer thermal shock. Keeping fuel levels above a quarter of a tank also reduces the amount of work the pump has to do, as it doesn't have to work as hard to move fuel.

Use Branded Fuel

Using branded fuel can help improve pump performance and keep your fuel pump healthy.

Regularly Inspect and Replace Fuel Filters

Fuel filters can clog, so it is important to check them regularly and replace them if necessary. This will help to avoid issues with your fuel pump.

Prevent Moisture in the Fuel Control Unit

If you have a PW100 engine, it is important to ensure that no moisture gets into the fuel control unit when doing a compressor wash. Water contamination can lead to galvanic corrosion, which may damage the unit and affect the performance of the fuel system.

Check for Other Issues

Sometimes, issues that seem related to the fuel pump may be caused by bad fuel, damaged fuel lines, or a clogged fuel filter. Get a qualified technician to perform a comprehensive inspection and diagnosis to get to the root of the problem.

Differences between mechanical and electric fuel pumps

How Often to Change an Auto Fuel Pump

Fuel pumps are not a regular maintenance item and are generally replaced only when they show signs of failing. Some preventative measures can be taken, such as checking and replacing the fuel filter, but unless the pump is malfunctioning, there is little reason to replace it.

There are two main types of fuel pumps: mechanical and electric. Mechanical fuel pumps were standard in the early days of automobiles, but electric fuel pumps eventually took over due to their efficiency and lower cost. Today, most vehicles use electric fuel pumps, but both types are still common in cars and trucks.

How They Work

Mechanical fuel pumps use a piston to push fuel from the tank to the engine. The pump is connected to the engine with a belt and supplies fuel when the engine is running. There are two types of mechanical fuel pumps: positive displacement and centrifugal. Positive displacement pumps are more common and work by squeezing fuel through a small opening. Centrifugal pumps use centrifugal force to draw fuel in and are usually used in high-pressure applications.

Electric fuel pumps, on the other hand, use an electric motor to push fuel from the storage tank to the engine. They are typically located inside or very close to the fuel tank and are turned on and off by the engine's computer. When the engine starts, the computer sends a signal to the pump to turn on, creating a vacuum in the fuel line, drawing in the fuel, and then pushing it into the engine.

Benefits of Each Type

Mechanical Fuel Pumps:

• Cost-effective: They are usually less expensive than electric fuel pumps.
• Ease of repair: They have fewer parts and a simpler design, making them easier to repair.
• Durability: They tend to be more durable, especially in harsh conditions.

Electric Fuel Pumps:

• Efficient fuel delivery: They provide a consistent flow of fuel, unaffected by changes in temperature or altitude.
• Easier installation: They are generally easier to install than mechanical pumps.
• Faster start times: They can supply fuel to the engine more quickly, resulting in faster engine startup.
• Reduced maintenance: They require less frequent maintenance and have a longer lifespan, reducing overall maintenance costs.
• Better performance: The consistent fuel flow improves the vehicle's power and efficiency.
• Lower emissions: They burn fuel more efficiently, resulting in reduced environmental impact.

Frequently asked questions