The fuel pump plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of your vehicle. How do you know if this component is failing, and where can you locate it? Let’s take a look at the fuel pump while diagnosing any possible issues that may arise.
Where Is My Fuel Pump Located?
An essential piece of the vehicle’s fuel system, the fuel pump is in place to deliver fuel from the tank to the engine at the needed pressure for the best performance possible.
Most modern vehicles feature the fuel pump inside the fuel tank. This location helps in cooling the pump while ensuring a consistent fuel supply.
In some older models, however, the fuel pump could be located outside of the tank. Typically, you will find it along the fuel line or on the engine block.
How Does A Fuel Pump Work?
A fuel pump operates by drawing fuel from the fuel tank and pushing it through to the engine under the needed pressure. In-tank electric fuel pumps will work with an electric motor to drive an impeller or turbine, which ultimately generates pressure in the fuel lines.
The pressurized fuel will be delivered to the fuel injection system depending on the specific design of the vehicle. The pump is there to provide a consistent flow of fuel under the proper pressure. This ensures the engine will operate smoothly across multiple operating conditions.
Signs Of A Bad Fuel Pump
Once there is an understanding of how a fuel pump should work, you may start to notice when this part has gone bad. Below are a few common signs of a bad/failing fuel pump.
Odd Noises
Loud whining noises that seem to be coming from the fuel tank can be the most obvious indicator of an issue. This noise signals the engine is not getting enough fuel from your tank.
Trouble Starting
If your engine is having trouble starting or cracks, it is possible the fuel pump may be worn out. As time goes on, the fuel pump is exposed to many contaminants that cause wear and tear. The majority of these pumps will last about 100,000 miles.
Stalling When Hot
When the engine sputters, it is most likely the cause of a faulty fuel pump, especially when it is hot outside.
Poor Fuel Economy
When your gas mileage starts decreasing seemingly out of nowhere, the fuel pump may have a faulty valve. In this case, it’s possible the valve may be allowing more fuel than necessary to escape the tank.
Power Loss
If your car begins to loss power either while accelerating or driving uphill, the fuel pump is likely to blame.
How Are Fuel Pump Issues Diagnosed?
If your engine fails to start, a mechanic will first check for pressure at the fuel injectors when attempting to start your car. When the injectors are getting enough fuel pressure, the next thing that’ll be checked is the pump responsible for delivering the fuel.
Now, if the pump is not receiving enough voltage or has a bad connection, it may be time to replace the circuit. If your pump is working but providing low pressure overall, the fuel pump and fuel filter will ultimately be inspected.
What Happens When A Fuel Pump Fails While Driving?
As soon as a fuel pump fails while driving, the engine will quickly gobble up the remaining fuel in the injection system. Soon after, the engine will stall. This sudden power loss can be quite dangerous, especially when driving in heavy traffic or at high speeds.
Some obvious indications of a pump failure include power loss during acceleration, odd noises, or difficulty starting, as mentioned above. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, reach out to the experienced team at Heath’s Auto today!
Heath’s Auto Service In Flagstaff, AZ
At Heath’s Auto Service, our expertise isn’t limited by make or model — we handle them all. Whether you drive a vintage classic or the latest high-tech marvel, our team is adept at providing top-tier auto repair services tailored to your vehicle’s unique needs. From routine maintenance to intricate repairs, we’ve got you covered. Request an appointment with our experienced team right here!
