The fuel pump is one of the vital components of a vehicle’s fuel system responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. Proper functioning of this part significantly affects the vehicle’s performance and engine starting. However, if the fuel pump encounters a problem, it can cause the vehicle to malfunction. One such issue is a failing or partially damaged fuel pump. This article will explore the signs of a failing fuel pump so you can identify the problem in time.
What is a Car Fuel Pump?
The fuel pump is an electric motor located inside the fuel tank of the vehicle, responsible for pumping fuel from the tank to the engine and injectors. In older cars with carburetor systems, the fuel pump was mechanically powered by the engine, but in modern vehicles, these pumps operate electrically. This electric system allows the car to continuously deliver fuel to the engine at the proper pressure.
In newer vehicles, the fuel pump is usually positioned under the rear seat inside the fuel tank. Malfunction of this component can reduce performance and even cause engine operation issues. Next, we will examine the signs and symptoms of a failing fuel pump so you can identify potential problems.
Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump
Typically, a fuel pump has a lifespan of about 160,000 to 200,000 kilometers, although this can vary. When the fuel pump reaches a point where it can no longer function properly, issues such as failure to start the vehicle or incomplete engine performance may occur. Sometimes, the fuel pump doesn’t fail completely but its efficiency decreases, leading to problems like:
Engine Hesitation
The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. If the fuel pump is failing, it cannot supply fuel with the necessary pressure and volume. As a result, the car may not accelerate properly even when pressing the gas pedal, commonly referred to as “engine hesitation.” This is especially noticeable when the driver expects the car to accelerate but it does not pick up speed correctly.
Sudden Acceleration
In some cases, a faulty fuel pump can send excessive fuel to the engine, causing sudden and unexpected acceleration. This abnormal surge may temporarily increase the vehicle’s speed, but afterward, the car may perform poorly or even stall.
Difficulty Starting the Engine
When starting the car, the fuel pump must provide enough fuel to ignite the engine. If the fuel pump is failing, the engine may not start initially and require multiple attempts to turn over. This issue is often more apparent in cold weather or when the fuel tank is running low.
Unusual Noise from the Fuel Pump
A whining or buzzing noise from the fuel pump is another common sign of a failing fuel pump. This sound is usually heard from the rear part of the vehicle near the back seat, as the fuel pump is typically located there. If this noise occurs while the ignition is on but the engine does not start, it could indicate a problem with the fuel pump.
Reduced Engine Power
One of the most noticeable signs of a failing fuel pump is a loss of engine power. When the vehicle is under load, such as carrying heavy cargo or climbing a hill, the fuel pump needs to deliver more fuel to the engine. If the fuel pump is malfunctioning, insufficient fuel reaches the engine, resulting in a lack of power to handle challenging driving conditions.
Engine Misfire and Vibration
A common symptom of a failing fuel pump is engine misfire and vibration. When the fuel pump cannot provide a steady fuel flow to the engine, fluctuations in fuel delivery disrupt engine performance. This can cause abnormal vibrations and misfiring. The problem arises because the fuel injection into the cylinders happens irregularly, preventing the engine from returning to normal operation.
Typically, in this situation, the engine runs poorly and vibrates, and due to misfires or loss of power, the vehicle may even stall completely. Therefore, engine misfire and vibration are clear signs of a failing fuel pump. In such cases, the vehicle may shut down entirely after experiencing misfires and reduced engine power.
Increased Fuel Consumption
A failing fuel pump can cause abnormal over-pumping of fuel to the engine, resulting in excessive fuel leaving the tank and reaching the engine. This condition may cause problems such as raw fuel burning, incomplete combustion, and the smell of gasoline from the exhaust. If you notice a significant increase in fuel consumption or issues like raw fuel burning in your vehicle, the likely cause could be a failing or malfunctioning fuel pump.
Engine Stalling
Engine stalling is another important sign of a failing fuel pump. When the fuel pump completely fails, fuel no longer reaches the engine, causing the vehicle to suddenly shut off. Even when the fuel pump is partially failing, it may not supply the minimum amount of fuel needed to keep the engine running, ultimately leading to the engine shutting down.
This problem may occur after the vehicle starts moving or even when idling with the engine running. Generally, sudden engine shutdown is considered one of the key symptoms of a failing fuel pump.
Ways to Prevent Fuel Pump Failure
Considering that the typical lifespan of a fuel pump is between 160,000 to 200,000 kilometers, it is better to replace your vehicle’s fuel pump before reaching this range to avoid potential problems. Here are some of the most important steps to prevent fuel pump failure:
- Avoid Running the Fuel Tank Empty
One reason for fuel pump failure is driving with an empty or nearly empty tank. The fuel pump motor generates a lot of heat, which is normally dissipated by the gasoline inside the tank. When the tank is almost empty, the pump cannot dissipate heat properly, reducing its lifespan. Therefore, it is recommended to always keep at least half a tank of fuel to help dissipate heat effectively and prolong the pump’s life.
- Timely Replacement of the Fuel Filter
The fuel filter is a critical part of the fuel system that cleans impurities from the gasoline. If the fuel filter is not replaced on time, it becomes clogged, forcing the fuel pump to work harder. This increases wear on the pump and shortens its life. It is advised to replace the fuel filter every 10,000 kilometers.
- Cleaning the Fuel Tank
Over time, the fuel tank may corrode, and contaminants may enter the fuel. These impurities can damage the fuel pump. To prevent this issue, it is advisable to have the fuel tank cleaned every four to five years. This procedure should be done by a professional mechanic to avoid risks such as explosions or fires.
- Replacing the Fuel Pump Core Before Failure
The fuel pump core usually starts to fail or become damaged after about 160,000 kilometers of use. For this reason, it is better to replace the fuel pump core before complete failure. The cost of replacing the pump core is usually low and can prevent bigger problems.
- Cleaning the Fuel Injectors
Fuel injectors are responsible for spraying fuel into the engine. Over time, dirt and carbon deposits can clog injector nozzles, increasing pressure on the fuel system. To avoid this, it is recommended to clean the injectors every three to four years.
In Conclusion
Fuel pump failure is a common issue in gasoline vehicles that can cause engine misfires and vibrations, increased fuel consumption, and even sudden engine shutdown. To prevent these problems, proper maintenance such as timely fuel filter replacement, fuel tank cleaning, and correct care of the fuel system should be performed. Following these tips can extend the life of the fuel pump and help avoid potential issues.