Fuel Pump Replacement: Best Places For A Change

Replacing a fuel pump can be a challenging task, and it's important to know where to get it done. The fuel pump plays a crucial role in keeping your engine running smoothly by transferring fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. While fuel pumps are durable, they are not indestructible and may need to be replaced at some point. The cost of replacing a fuel pump can vary depending on several factors, such as the vehicle's make and model, labour costs, and the type of fuel pump. It is recommended to get your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic if you notice any signs of a faulty fuel pump, such as difficulty starting the car or strange noises coming from the fuel tank area. Replacing a fuel pump involves removing the fuel tank and can be messy and time-consuming, so it is important to be prepared and follow the necessary safety precautions.

Fuel pump replacement cost

The cost of replacing a fuel pump varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the complexity of the job, and your location. On average, a fuel pump replacement costs between $220 and $1,321, not including taxes and fees.

Labor costs for fuel pump replacement typically range from $124 to $700, while parts can cost between $50 and $1,110.

If you have a diesel engine with a mechanical fuel pump, you can expect to pay up to $1,500 for the replacement. Newer models from automakers like BMW, Honda, Chevrolet, and Toyota have an average fuel pump replacement cost of between $611 and $894.

It's worth noting that some vehicles may require the fuel tank to be removed to access the fuel pump, which can add to the cost of the replacement.

To save money on fuel pump replacement, consider purchasing a fuel pump with a warranty and taking your vehicle to a repair shop or dealership that offers competitive pricing.

Where to get it done

There are two options for where to get your fuel pump changed: at home or at a mechanic's shop.

Changing your fuel pump at home is an option if you have some mechanical knowledge and are willing to get a little messy. It is important to note that this job can be dangerous as you will be working with flammable fuel, so it is best to leave this job to the professionals unless you are very comfortable and experienced working on cars. If you do decide to change your fuel pump yourself, make sure to take the necessary precautions and have a fire extinguisher on hand. You will also need a variety of tools, including a jack, ratchet, sockets, wrenches, pliers, and possibly a hose clamp removal tool and a fuel line disconnect tool. The first step is to relieve the fuel system pressure, then locate and remove the fuel tank, and finally, remove and replace the fuel pump before reassembling the fuel system.

The second option is to take your car to a mechanic or dealership. This is a safer option, especially if you are not comfortable working on cars. The average cost to replace a fuel pump is between $1,000 and $1,300, with labour costs ranging from $600 to $700 and parts costing around $500 to $600. However, the final price can vary depending on the vehicle, its age, the region, and the make and model. Luxury and large vehicles, for example, are often more expensive to repair. It is also worth checking if your fuel pump is covered under the manufacturer's powertrain warranty before paying out of pocket.

DIY vs. professional repair

Changing a fuel pump can be a challenging task, but it can be done by a skilled DIYer. However, if you are unsure, it is best to leave it to a professional mechanic. Here is a detailed comparison between doing it yourself and hiring a professional:

DIY Fuel Pump Change

Changing a fuel pump yourself can save you money on labour costs, which can range from $600 to $700. It is a moderately complicated process that requires mechanical know-how and a willingness to get messy. Here are some key considerations for a DIY fuel pump change:

• Most vehicles' fuel pumps are located inside the fuel tank, requiring the tank to be removed for access.
• It is advisable to drive your vehicle until the gas tank is nearly empty to reduce the amount of fuel that needs to be drained when removing the tank.
• Obtain an approved container to store the fuel from the tank, and always follow proper safety precautions to avoid fires or other hazards.
• Consult your vehicle's service manual or online tutorials for specific instructions and guidance.
• Be prepared for a challenging task that requires time and patience, especially when working with flammable liquids.
• Ensure you have a safe and accessible workspace, and wear proper safety gear such as safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate clothing.

Professional Fuel Pump Change

Hiring a professional mechanic to change your fuel pump can provide several benefits, including:

• Peace of mind: A professional mechanic will have the knowledge and experience to correctly diagnose and repair your vehicle, ensuring that the job is done right the first time.
• Safety: Working with flammable liquids and complex vehicle systems can be dangerous. A professional will have the training and equipment to handle these hazards safely.
• Warranty: Repairs done by a certified mechanic may be covered under warranty, providing added protection in case something goes wrong.
• Convenience: A professional mechanic will have the necessary tools and equipment, saving you the time and hassle of gathering them yourself.
• Expertise: Mechanics can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience, helping to identify and address any related issues.
• Time savings: A professional will be able to complete the job more quickly and efficiently, allowing you to get back on the road sooner.

In conclusion, while changing a fuel pump yourself can be a viable option for skilled individuals, hiring a professional mechanic offers expertise, safety, and convenience. Ultimately, the decision depends on your comfort level with automotive repairs and the priority you place on time and cost savings.

Signs of a bad fuel pump

A fuel pump is a small electric motor that transfers fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. While fuel pumps are durable, they are not indestructible. Here are some signs that indicate that your fuel pump is going bad:

• Difficulty in starting the car: If your vehicle's fuel pump cannot get gas from the tank to the engine, it will be difficult to start the car. The car will struggle to start and run because the pump cannot push enough gas through.
• Loss of power: If the pump cannot produce a constant stream of gas at higher speeds, your vehicle's engine will sputter and threaten to stall. This is because the engine requires more gasoline to operate at higher speeds.
• Engine overheating: An old and worn pump motor may get too hot and cause the entire engine to overheat.
• Lower fuel efficiency: If the pump is pushing too much fuel into the engine, you will burn more gas than normal, resulting in lower fuel efficiency.
• Strange, high-pitched whining noises: A damaged fuel pump might make a loud, whining sound that you'll hear coming from your gas tank. The normal noise your pump makes is a low hum.
• Engine stalling: If your engine is getting gas from the pump, even if it is less than what is needed, it will not stall unless the pump causes the engine to overheat.
• Check Engine light comes on: Any of the above issues may be accompanied by the "Check Engine" light illuminating on your dashboard.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to get your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. A malfunctioning fuel pump can lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the road.

When to get it changed

Fuel pumps are generally durable and long-lasting, but they are not indestructible. A fuel pump delivers gas or diesel to an engine's combustion chamber and, while they usually provide many years of trouble-free operation, they may need to be replaced from time to time.

• Difficulty in starting the car: If your engine is hard to start or won't start at all, it could be a sign of a faulty fuel pump.
• Loss of power: If you experience a sudden loss of power while driving or find it difficult to maintain speed, it could be due to a defective fuel pump. This may feel like the engine is "choking" and can make you think you are out of gas, even if the gauge indicates otherwise.
• Engine overheating: A failing fuel pump may cause the engine to overheat. The vehicle may operate for about 15-30 minutes before stopping. After allowing it to cool down, the engine may run again, but the problem is likely to recur as the engine heats up.
• Strange noises: Noises, backfires, and sputtering engines are indicators of a bad fuel pump. Electronic fuel pumps usually don't make any noise unless they are failing.
• "Check Engine" light: The "Check Engine" light coming on can be a sign of a faulty fuel pump, but it could also indicate other issues, so further diagnosis is needed.
• Whining noise from the fuel tank: If you hear a strange, high-pitched whining noise coming from the fuel tank area (usually under the rear seat or at the rear of the vehicle), it could be a sign that your fuel pump is defective.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to have your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. A malfunctioning fuel pump can lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the road.

Frequently asked questions