Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 1993 Grand Marquis

If you're experiencing issues with your 1993 Mercury Grand Marquis, a faulty fuel pump could be the culprit. A fuel pump's primary function is to deliver fuel to the engine, and while it's designed to be durable, it may eventually need to be replaced. Before attempting to replace the fuel pump, it's important to be aware of the warning signs of a malfunctioning fuel pump, such as engine choking, unusual noises, or hesitation when starting the vehicle. If you observe these symptoms, it's advisable to consult a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further complications.

Warning signs of a bad fuel pump

Although fuel pumps are meant to be long-lasting, they can sometimes fail and need to be replaced. Here are some warning signs that indicate a bad fuel pump in your 1993 Mercury Grand Marquis:

• Engine struggles to maintain speed: If your fuel pump cannot deliver enough fuel to the engine, your car will struggle to maintain speed. This is often accompanied by unusual noises, backfires, and a sputtering engine.
• Hesitation at start or take-off: A faulty fuel pump may cause hesitation or delays when starting your car or accelerating from a stationary position.
• Overheating engine: A bad fuel pump can lead to engine overheating. If the fuel pump is unable to provide a constant stream of fuel, especially at higher speeds, the engine may overheat.
• Check Engine light comes on: If the "Check Engine" light illuminates on your dashboard, it could be an indication of a faulty fuel pump or another issue. It's best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem.
• Failure to start: If the fuel pump is completely failed, your car may not start at all. This is often a result of the engine not receiving any fuel, causing it to fail to ignite.
• Whining or whirring noise from the fuel tank: A properly functioning fuel pump makes a low, barely noticeable humming sound. If you hear a loud, whining, or whirring noise coming from the fuel tank, it could indicate a problem with the fuel pump.
• Lower fuel efficiency: If your fuel pump is damaged, it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency. This is caused by excess fuel being delivered to the engine, resulting in more frequent trips to the gas station.
• Loss of power during acceleration or when driving uphill: If your car loses power when accelerating or driving uphill, it could be due to the fuel pump not being able to supply enough fuel to meet the engine's demand.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to have your vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

Location of the fuel pump

The fuel pump on a 1993 Mercury Grand Marquis is located inside the gas tank. This is a common location for fuel pumps on modern vehicles, as it means the pump is submerged in cool liquid and is far away from the hot engine, reducing the risk of fires.

To access the fuel pump, the gas tank must be lowered. However, some people have suggested accessing the pump from the front side by pushing the exhaust to the side, although this is a tight squeeze.

It is also possible to cut a hole in the trunk to access the fuel pump, but this method is not recommended as it is dangerous.

Fixing vs replacing the fuel pump

If your fuel pump is not pumping enough fuel to keep up with the engine, you may need to fix or replace it. This can be done in 12 steps. However, it is important to note that fuel pumps are meant to be long-lasting and durable, so attempting to fix a broken fuel pump may only provide a temporary solution.

Fixing vs. Replacing the Fuel Pump

Firstly, park your vehicle on a firm, level surface and set the parking brake. Then, locate the fuel pump, which is usually inside the fuel tank. If you cannot locate it, refer to your vehicle's manual or consult a mechanic. Once you have found the fuel pump, open the fuel cap and turn the key to the "on" position. If you hear a humming sound for two to three seconds, your fuel pump is working properly.

If there is no sound, the fuel pump may need to be replaced. However, before replacing it, you should check the fuel pump fuse and relay. If the fuse is blown, simply replace it with a new one of the same amperage and recheck the fuel pump operation. If the fuse and relay are functional, the next step is to check for power and ground at the fuel pump. This may require removing the fuel tank or the back seat. If there is power and ground at the pump, then the pump is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If you choose to replace the fuel pump, the next steps involve relieving the fuel system pressure and draining the fuel tank. Always remember to disconnect the negative battery cable before performing any work on the fuel system. Once the tank is drained, disconnect the filler tube hose and the electrical connection to the pump. Remove the fuel pump from the tank and install a new one, making sure to compare it with the original to verify the correct part. Finally, reconnect all the components, fill the tank with gas, and conduct a road test to ensure the repair was successful.

While it is possible to attempt to fix a fuel pump, it is generally recommended to replace it, especially if you are not experienced in automotive repair. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your vehicle's fuel pump is functioning properly and that your engine receives the necessary fuel to operate efficiently.

Cost of replacement

The average cost of replacing a fuel pump on a Mercury Grand Marquis is between $876 and $1,341. The labour costs are estimated to be between $184 and $232, while the parts are priced between $692 and $1,109.

The cost of replacing a fuel pump varies depending on the age of your vehicle, and the location of your service centre. The average national cost for a fuel pump replacement across all vehicles is between $611 and $894, including parts and labour.

It is recommended that fuel filters are replaced at the same time as the fuel pump, which will add to the overall cost of the replacement.

If you are experiencing issues with your fuel pump, it is best to consult a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further complications.

Steps to replace the fuel pump

Firstly, empty the gas tank. Then, jack up the car and loosen a couple of screws to slowly disconnect the wires. The fuel pump is located inside the tank. Once you have accessed the pump, remove the old pump and replace it with a new one. Make sure to securely connect the wires to the new pump. Finally, lower the car, refill the gas tank, and test the pump to ensure it is functioning properly.

Please note that this process may vary depending on the specific model and year of your Grand Marquis, and it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or a repair manual for more detailed instructions.

Frequently asked questions