Identifying And Replacing A Failed Fuel Pump
Your fuel pump has two jobs: to push gasoline from the tank to the injectors and to generate enough pressure that the injectors can deliver whatever amount is appropriate. If the part fails to do either job properly, your car will guzzle more gas than necessary while emissions climb and the performance of your engine plummets. Like most components, this part can suffer wear and tear over time; if you drive your vehicle enough, you will need to buy a replacement eventually.
In this article, I’ll explain the reasons they fail and how to diagnose the root cause of the problem. We’ll also discuss a few factors to keep in mind when shopping for a replacement.
How And Why They Fail
Fuel pumps are put to work continuously whenever you’re on the road. As a result, there are many things which can influence their long-term operation. For example, in the same way that dust and debris collect in your air filter, dust and other contaminants can accumulate within this component. If enough sediment gets inside, it can jam the motor and contribute to overheating.
Also, gas provides lubrication to this part. If the flow is impaired for some reason, the resulting lack of lubrication can cause damage (similar to the damage your engine suffers when not lubricated by oil). What’s more, the gears, bushings, and rollers can sustain wear and tear, which leads to pressure loss.
Diagnosing The Issue
If the component stops working, identifying the problem can be simple or difficult. Sometimes, a blown fuse can be replaced to resolve the issue. Other times, you may need to perform tests in order to measure the voltage, pressure, and delivery flow. Testing the component’s output pressure requires a special gauge that you can purchase from almost any auto parts store.
Testing the fuel flow is a bit more involved. You’ll need to disconnect the supply feed, engage the pump with the engine turned off, and measure how much gas is sent through by collecting it in a container. If the fuel pump’s pressure or flow is lower than the automaker’s standards, replacing the component is usually the most cost-effective solution.
Considerations When Buying A Replacement
Due to economies of scale and wider profit margins, a lot of aftermarket manufacturers sell fuel pumps that are homogeneous across several makes and models. Though they might technically “work,” there’s a good chance they will not optimize your engine’s performance. Their flow capacity may be limited and the pressure generated behind the gas may not be sufficient. This is why many car enthusiasts recommend using OEM fuel pumps. They’re designed to meet specific automakers’ standards.
While the price for an OEM part may be incrementally higher than an aftermarket alternative, you’ll enjoy knowing that you’re investing in quality. That can make the difference between reaching your destination or getting stranded by the side of the road.
