What do you think about when you pull up to the pump? Do you think about the day ahead? All the work you have to do? Getting the kids to their activities? What’s for dinner?
Those few minutes of standing idle can bring up a lot of “to-do’s.” But have you ever stopped to think much about your car’s fuel pump and all that it does to ensure your car goes?
Probably not. We get it – fuel pumps aren’t a glamorous component. In fact, you might not have thought about it at all.
You should. Like any of the other thousands of car parts, the fuel pump is essential to keeping your car running for years. Service it regularly, and you’ll decrease the chance of it giving you problems. Or moving from a small repair to a larger problem that takes more time and more dollars to solve.
How Your Car’s Fuel Pump Works
Its name says a lot. Fuel pumps are a critical component of the fuel delivery system. It moves fuel from the gas tank to the engine. But it does more than that – it ensures the engine receives the right amount of fuel at the correct pressure for optimal combustion. (Yep, it isn’t free-flow like your garden hose.)
Depending on the car you own, your car will have one of two different types of fuel pumps.
A mechanical fuel pump is on older vehicles. It’s found in carbureted engines. It operates via the engine’s camshaft or a crankshaft lobe, and creates a suction effect to draw fuel from the tank up into the carburetor.
An electric fuel pump is included on today’s more modern vehicles. You’ll find it in fuel-injected engines. It’s typically located inside the fuel tank, and operates electronically to maintain consistent fuel pressure for the injectors.
When you turn the key or press the start button, the car’s electronic control unit activates the fuel pump. A relay switch powers on and sends electrical power to the fuel pump.
That tells the fuel pump to move into action. It uses an internal motor to create suction, drawing fuel from the gas tank through a fuel filter. This filter keeps debris from entering the pump.
The pump pressurizes the fuel to a level specified by the engine’s design. This is a crucial part of the process – the injectors need this to spray the correct amount of fuel into the combustion chamber.
Once that occurs, this pressurized fuel travels through the fuel lines to the fuel injectors (or carburetors). The fuel pressure regulator maintains a consistent pressure, adjusting based on how you’re driving and what the engine demands.
It doesn’t end once the engine is running. The pump stays in action supplying fuel at a steady rate to match the engine’s RPMs. Every time your driving conditions change, the fuel pump changes its workload.
What You Need To Know About A Failing Fuel Pump
Now you know how important a fuel pump’s job is. (In case you didn’t before!) Its main job is to transfer fuel from the gas tank to the engine. Of course, a variety of things can go wrong with that process.
A fuel pump doesn’t usually fail suddenly. Instead, it gives off warning signs, symptoms that, if you catch early, can allow you to fix it before it causes more damage. Luckily, these warning signs are things you’ll notice.
Difficulty Starting
Nothing is more frustrating than turning the key or pushing the button and nothing happens. A failing fuel pump struggles to deliver fuel, which in turn makes it hard for your engine to start. It might feel like the engine is cranking longer than usual, or not turning over at all.
Engine Sputtering
You’re driving along, thinking about your day ahead, and your car sputters while driving at higher speeds. This is a sign the pump isn’t maintaining proper fuel pressure. This isn’t something that will occur continuously once it starts. That makes it tricky to diagnose, or having a mechanic recreate it when you bring the car in. Be sure to tell us when and where the problem occurs, and how long it’s been happening.
Loss of Power
When you put your car in stressful situations – driving up a big hill or towing your boat for a fun-filled weekend – this can stress a failing fuel pump. If it doesn’t supply the right levels of fuel, you’ll notice it as loss of power.
Whining Noise
Nothing is as annoying as a whining noise coming from somewhere on your vehicle. Trace where it’s coming from. Is it in the fuel tank? It could mean the pump is wearing down.
Poor Fuel Efficiency
If a malfunctioning fuel pump delivers too much or too little fuel, your engine will run inefficiently. Track your mileage each time you fill-up the tank. Notice a change without a reason for it? It might be the fuel pump.
Check Engine Light
We list this at the end because a check engine light can mean a host of different issues. One of which might be a failing fuel pump. Inconsistent fuel pressure will trigger the check engine light. When it lights up, it’s best to let one of our mechanics trace where the problem lies.
Causes of Fuel Pump Failure
Just looking at the above warning signs probably has alerted you to what causes the problem. But it’s worth noting:
- Running low on fuel – driving on a near-empty tank can cause the pump to overheat and draw in debris from the bottom of the tank.
- Clogged fuel filter – the pump will have to work harder.
- Electrical issues – corroded connectors, frayed wiring, or a blown fuel pump can all interrupt the pump’s operation.
- Contaminated fuel – dirt, water, or other impurities can clog the pump and reduce its efficiency.
- Wear and tear – every component on your car will wear out.
But there is something that prevents the damage that comes from continually driving on a failing fuel pump: Maintenance.
Maintenance – The Key To a Healthy Car
Hopefully you’ve learned more about the fuel pump by reading this. Chances are, you might have noticed something within your vehicle. Basic troubleshooting can be done at home – you should always be aware of how your vehicle drives. Noticing changes can be the difference between a quick maintenance fix and a significant problem.
That said, fuel pump issues often require professional expertise to get to the heart of the problem. Have you:
- Experienced persistent stalling or power loss?
- Have a car that won’t start despite having plenty of fuel?
- Noticed any of the warning signs above, and want to be proactive in repairs?
It’s time to give us a call. Schedule an appointment with us today. Our expert mechanics can diagnose the problem and get your car back on the road.