Cleaning Fuel Pump Pressure: Tips And Tricks

A clogged fuel pump can cause your engine to sputter, stall, or make clicking sounds. To clean it, you'll need to locate the pump, disconnect the battery, and remove the pump's cover and filter. You can then clean the filter with a brush and gasoline or replace it with a new one. Finally, reassemble the pump and reconnect the battery. If you're unsure about how to clean your fuel pump, it's best to consult a professional or refer to a vehicle-specific repair manual.

How to Clean a Fuel Pump Pressure

Recognise the signs of a clogged fuel pump

A clogged fuel pump can cause a range of issues with your vehicle's performance and is often indicated by warning signs that should not be ignored. Here are some key signs to recognise and address:

Engine Sputtering and Stalling:

A clogged fuel pump may cause your engine to sputter and stall unexpectedly, especially when driving at higher speeds or under stress, such as towing a heavy load or driving uphill. This is due to an insufficient fuel supply to the engine, resulting in surging power and inconsistent fuel delivery.

Loss of Power:

If your vehicle suddenly loses power during heavy loads or when driving on inclines, it could indicate a clogged fuel pump. The pump may be unable to provide the necessary fuel pressure and flow required for high-speed driving or demanding conditions, leading to misfiring, hesitating, or stalling.

Unusual Noises:

Listen for unusual noises coming from your fuel tank. A clogged fuel pump may produce a loud whining or screeching sound, distinct from the low humming sound of a functioning fuel pump. These noises can indicate that the pump is struggling to circulate fuel, potentially due to a clog.

Difficult Starts:

If your vehicle struggles to start or takes longer than usual to turn over, a clogged fuel pump could be the culprit. A faulty pump may not be able to circulate enough fuel through the fuel line to the engine, resulting in a slow or failed start.

Decreased Fuel Efficiency:

Keep an eye on your fuel efficiency. A clogged fuel pump can lead to decreased fuel efficiency as damaged or worn components may allow excess fuel into the engine, resulting in increased fuel consumption and more frequent trips to the gas station.

Surge in Engine Performance:

A clogged fuel pump can cause the relief valve to stick in the open position, pouring excess gasoline into your engine. This will result in your vehicle surging, with fluctuating speeds even when you're not pressing the accelerator.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult a professional mechanic or seek specialist advice. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.

Use a fuel system cleaner

Using a fuel system cleaner is a great way to maintain your vehicle's performance and ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Purchase a Fuel System Cleaner: It is important to buy a suitable fuel system cleaner that is compatible with your vehicle's engine. Make sure to read the instructions on the bottle carefully as different brands may have slightly different usage directions.

Run Your Engine Until the Tank is Almost Empty: Most fuel system cleaners work best when mixed with a small amount of fuel. Run your engine until your fuel gauge reads empty or close to it. The tank does not need to be completely empty, but the lower the fuel level, the better.

Pour the Fuel System Cleaner into the Gas Tank: Open the bottle of the fuel system cleaner and puncture the plastic seal. Insert the spout into the gas filler neck of your vehicle, just as you would with a gas pump. Pour the entire contents of the bottle into your gas tank.

Fill Your Tank with Fuel: After adding the fuel system cleaner, fill up your tank with fuel. This will ensure that the cleaner mixes thoroughly with the remaining fuel, creating a concentrated solution that will effectively clean your fuel pump and fuel injectors.

Start the Engine and Let it Idle: Start your engine and let it idle for a few minutes. The fuel system cleaner will flow through the fuel pump and filters, breaking down any sediment or build-up along the way. Many fuel cleaners recommend idling the engine for 10-15 minutes to ensure the cleaner reaches the engine.

Drive Your Vehicle: After idling, you can start driving your vehicle as normal. The fuel system cleaner will continue to work its way through the fuel system, cleaning as it goes.

Using a fuel system cleaner is a simple and effective way to maintain your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. It is important to follow the instructions on the product you choose and to wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when handling fuel and the cleaner.

Clean mechanical fuel pump filters

To clean mechanical fuel pump filters, you'll need to first disconnect the negative terminal on the battery. This is important when working with fuel to ensure nothing within the vehicle can produce a spark. Tuck the negative cable to the side of the battery to ensure it doesn't touch the terminal by accident.

Next, locate the fuel pump. Mechanical fuel pumps are usually found on the engine and will look like a metal circle with a nozzle coming out of the top or bottom. They are usually only found in older vehicles. Place a container beneath the vehicle to catch any leaking fuel.

Now, remove any fuel lines if they're in the way. There will be two fuel lines on the pump (an in and an out). If possible, leave them in place as you open the fuel pump, but if you have to, remove them by unscrewing the lines or loosening the hose clamps that hold them in place. Make sure any fuel draining from the line falls into the container you've placed under the car.

Remove the central screw or nut from the top of the fuel pump housing. There will be a nut or bolt sticking out of the top of the mechanical fuel pump that holds the cover over the fuel filter. Use the correctly-sized wrench to remove it so you can access the filter inside.

Now, clean the filter with a brush without removing it. The filter will look like a screen. Don't try to remove the filter, but instead, use a clean paintbrush to sweep away any debris blocking the filter. You can dip the paintbrush in new gasoline to make it easier for the debris to stick to the bristles of the brush.

Finally, reassemble the fuel pump. Put the cover back on the fuel pump and then secure it in place using the bolt or nut you removed before. Reconnect any fuel lines that you disconnected and use hose clamps to make sure they're tight.

Disconnect the negative terminal on the battery

Disconnecting the negative terminal on the battery is an important step when cleaning the fuel pump pressure. This is because the negative battery terminal, also known as the ground strap or cable, is directly connected to the vehicle's engine, body, and chassis. Disconnecting the negative terminal first will help to ensure that the battery is completely disconnected from the vehicle, reducing the risk of electrical shorts or accidents.

• Locate the battery: The battery is usually located in the vehicle's engine bay or trunk. It will look like a black box with two posts sticking out.
• Identify the negative terminal: Look for the negative (-) terminal post, which will be labelled with a negative (-) symbol. The positive terminal, in contrast, will have a positive (+) symbol and may also have a red plastic cover.
• Disconnect the negative terminal: Use a correctly sized wrench to loosen the nut holding the cable to the negative terminal. Then, slide the cable off the terminal. Ensure that the cable does not accidentally come into contact with the terminal.
• Secure the negative cable: Tuck the negative cable to the side of the battery to prevent it from accidentally touching the terminal.

It is important to note that disconnecting the battery is a crucial safety measure when working with fuel. This will help prevent any potential sparks or electrical issues that could cause an accident. Once the negative terminal is disconnected, you can proceed with cleaning the fuel pump pressure, following the appropriate steps for your specific vehicle.

Remember to always refer to your vehicle's user manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps or procedures. Working with fuel and electrical systems can be dangerous, so taking the necessary precautions is essential.

Clean the filter with a brush

To clean a fuel filter with a brush, you'll need to first relieve the pressure in your fuel system. Check your owner's manual to find the fuse for your fuel pump, then remove it and start your engine, letting it run for 1-2 minutes. Next, disconnect the negative terminal on your battery. This is marked with a minus sign (-) and is usually black if your terminals are coloured. Tuck the cable to the side so it doesn't touch the terminal.

Now it's time to locate the fuel filter. This varies by make and model, so check your owner's manual. It will be somewhere along the fuel line between the engine and the gas tank. You may need to jack up your car to access it. Place a bucket or jar under the filter to catch any fuel, then detach the clips that fasten the fuel line to the filter. Remove the fuel lines using a wrench or hose clamps.

Before cleaning, remove the filter from its bracket. Note its position so you can reinstall it correctly. Pour out any remaining gas from the filter, then use a clean paintbrush to sweep away debris blocking the filter. You can dip the paintbrush in new gasoline to help the debris stick to the bristles.

Once you're done, reinstall the filter, replace the fuel lines and clips, and reconnect the battery and fuse. Start your engine and check for any fuel leaks.

Frequently asked questions