The fuel pump's main responsibility is to deliver gas from the fuel tank to the fuel injectors. The pump must deliver the right amount of fuel and at a high enough pressure to keep the engine running smoothly in all conditions.
How does the fuel pump work?
Fuel pumps on most cars and trucks use an electric motor to drive a fluid pump. The pump can be either inside or outside the fuel tank. Either way, the fuel is sucked out of the fuel tank and pushed through a line to a filter, and then to the fuel injectors.
A failing fuel pump will not create enough pressure in the fuel system, potentially resulting in a loss of engine power or a "no start" condition. You may also have a lean running condition that can set a diagnostic trouble code and turn on the Check Engine Light.
Fuel pumps require replacement if they leak or begin making too much noise, which is a sign of malfunction.
What are the symptoms related to a bad fuel pump?
If the fuel pump leaks or begins making a lot of noise, get it looked at right away. A failing fuel pump will not create enough pressure in the fuel system, possibly causing a loss of engine power or preventing the car from starting. It may also cause the check engine light to come on.
More symptoms of a bad fuel pump
Can I drive with a fuel pump problem?
Driving with a failing fuel pump is a bad idea. In some cases, the car won't even start or run, preventing you from driving at all.
If the car is running but has a lack of power or keeps stalling because of a suspected fuel pump problem, we recommend driving it to a safe spot and then having it towed to a shop for repairs.
How often do fuel pumps need to be replaced?
Fuel pumps do not have a specific replacement interval. Replacement becomes more common as the mileage on the car increases. Repeatedly running the fuel tank low or driving with clogged fuel filters can put additional strain on the fuel pump, shortening its lifespan.
How are fuel pump issues diagnosed?
If the engine won't start, the mechanic will check for pressure at the fuel injectors when trying to start the car. If the injectors are getting enough fuel pressure, the next step is to check that the pump is delivering enough fuel.
If the pressure is low or nonexistent, the next step is to check the pump's electrical circuit. If the pump isn't receiving enough voltage or has a bad connection, the circuit may need replacing.
If the pump is working but is providing low pressure or too little fuel, the mechanic will check the fuel filter, as well as the electrical and mechanical condition of the fuel pump itself.
A clogged fuel filter or problems with the electrical system powering the fuel pump can result in symptoms similar to a failed fuel pump. Have the shop verify that the pump is the problem before replacing.
How is a fuel pump replaced?
The first step is to disconnect the battery, in order to reduce the chance of a fire.
For pumps inside the fuel tank, there will usually be an access cover that needs to be removed. With the cover off, the technician can replace the pump and pre-pump filter screen. In some cases, fuel will need to be drained before removing the access panel.
When the pump is outside the tank, the mechanic will disconnect the fuel lines, remove the pump and install the new one. Once the pump is replaced, another check will be done to ensure there are no fuel leaks and that the problem is solved.
