What’s Wrong with My Fuel Pump?

Sputter, Surge, Stall… Car Won’t Start

Believe it or not, the simple fuel pump, hidden away in the gas tank, can cause all kinds of strange car behavior if it malfunctions. Fuel pumps are found in virtually every modern vehicle that uses an internal combustion engine. The fuel pump is the component that delivers fuel from the gas tank to the engine. It delivers this gas at the appropriate pressure required to meet the performance demands. When the key is turned, the fuel pump is activated and pressurized, which can be heard as a quiet hum in some cars (the proverbial purr). Since this is a relatively self-explanatory part, it is a no-brainer that any malfunction or questionable activity is the reason for concern.

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Two Types of Fuel Pumps

Mechanical Fuel Pump

This is your granddad’s fuel pump. A mechanical pump resembles a diaphragm and uses the pumping action of the diaphragm to create low pressure (10-15 psi) which transports fuel from the tank to the carburetor. These pumps are located on the mount outside of the fuel tank and are less likely to malfunction compared to modern electronic pumps. Most commonly, these pumps will be damaged due to a tear or split which prevents the pump from reaching the proper pressure balance.

Electronic Fuel Pump

Since car manufacturers have moved away from the use of carburetors in favor of advanced fuel injection systems, the use of mechanical pumps has decreased. Unfortunately, the mechanical fuel pumps can’t generate the level of pressure required to work with these modern systems. Instead, vehicles now include an electronic pump that injects your fuel at high pressure (40-60 psi). These pumps are located inside of the gas tank itself and work by spraying a fine mist of fuel inside of the engine’s chambers. Since this uses a computer control system, it adds another element to the potential failure points.

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How to Identify Fuel System Malfunctions

There are a few common issues that can point toward a problem with the fuel pump. Before reading the potential symptoms, let’s remember what the primary purpose of the fuel pump is… First, it pumps fuel from the gas tank to the fuel injector or carburetor. Second, it creates the proper amount of pressure to guarantee the right amount of fuel is being delivered to the engine. You don’t have to troubleshoot this on your own, if you need assistance, give us a call to discuss a Vehicle Courtesy Check. Now, let’s look at the potential signs of trouble.

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1. Engine Sputters at High Speeds.

One of the clearest indicators of a fuel pump problem is found while driving at a consistently high speed. If the vehicle suddenly sputters and then goes back to normal, regular performance, there is likely trouble with the fuel pump. This sputter occurs when the pump is struggling to deliver a constant stream of pressurized fuel to the engine.

2. Rising Vehicle Temperatures

Though rising temperatures can point to several issues, one of them may be related to the fuel pump. If the heat rises and the car stalls, this may indicate a problem occurring with the pump. If the vehicle continues to stall out, this is a clear sign that the pump may be deteriorating or needs to be replaced.

3. Abrupt Loss of Power When the Vehicle is Under Stress.

A vehicle endures a tremendous amount of stress when hauling heavy loads or climbing up a hill. Should your vehicle lose power while performing these tasks, it could mean that the fuel pump has already started to weaken and needs to be addressed.

4. Surging

Sometimes when the fuel pump is going bad, you may notice that your vehicle speed may spike as if the gas pedal is depressed. This can happen when driving at a consistent speed, out of nowhere. This is caused by irregular resistance in the fuel pump motor. Some may blame this on a dirty or damaged fuel filter, but if you’ve already tried that and the problem persists, look at your fuel pump next.

5. Engine Won’t Start

Ignoring any of the issues outlined above will inevitably lead to a vehicle that will not start. When a fuel pump fails completely, absolutely no fuel can reach the engine, and therefore the car will not work. Your car may crank and rev, but it won’t do much else.

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No Fuel, No Go

Your car will not work if fuel is not reaching the engine. This is an avoidable issue with a little bit of preparedness. Fuel pumps are vital for any combustion engine, and this is a part all drivers should have a fundamental understanding of – a little knowledge goes a long way! Understanding these warning signs, correctly identifying them, and acting early will prevent you from finding yourself stranded with a big bill in tow.

Related: What You Should Know About Fuel Injectors
Related: My Car is Chugging and Losing Power

AAMCO Colorado Can Help with Your Fuel Pump Problems

Fuel pump problems need to be addressed sooner than later, otherwise greater damage could occur. Your car may be trying to tell you something important, but if you’re struggling to interpret those messages, AAMCO Colorado can help. We have the experts in place to help you identify trouble and get it resolved before the problems get worse.

If you are having car troubles find your local AAMCO Colorado and call or book online today to visit us today.

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