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You Should Know This About Your Fuel Pump

A fuel pump in an automobile distributes liquid from the fuel tank to the carburetor of the internal combustion engine. Keep on reading to understand more about the role of Fuel Pump.

What Is A Car Fuel Pump?

There are various types of automotive fuel pumps, but all of them have one function in common - to feed the car engine with fuel by pumping gas from the tank, which causes a positive pressure in the fuel line to push the fuel to the injectors. There are a lot of fuel pumps that are controlled by a relay and further controlled by the ignition switch. It is worth mentioning that some relays are controlled by the engine control module.

Where Is The Car Fuel Pump Located?

There are a lot of fuel injection systems where the fuel pumps are situated inside the fuel tank and there is a fuel level sensor that is connected to the pump housing. The electric motor is submerged in fuel, and there will be no danger of fire because of the lack of oxygen inside the tank. Servicing the pump or level sender would need the removal of the pump. It can be done with a service port in the car's body or by detaching the fuel tank.

What Are The Important Features Of the Car Fuel Pump?

Have a look at some vital features of the car fuel pump:

  • It should pressurize the fuel rail
  • It should hold fuel level sensor
  • It should be positioned inside a fluid sump
  • Make sure that it should feature a primary fuel filter

How Do I Choose The Right Fuel Pump?

How Does My Car Fuel Pump Work?

Have a look at the working of the car fuel pump:

A mechanical fuel pump is driven by the camshaft or a special shaft that is driven by the crankshaft. As the shaft turns, the cam forces the lever upwards. The other end of the lever is attached to the rubber diaphragm that moves up and down with the lever.

When the lever moves down, it pulls the diaphragm with it creating a suction that draws fuel into the fuel pump through a one-way valve. As the cam turns further it eases the pressure on the lever and relaxes the diaphragm. 

It also consists of a return spring that allows the lever and the diaphragm to attain their original position. As the diaphragm moves up, it pushes the fuel from the chamber through the one-way valve into the throttle body.

What Are The Common Car Fuel Pump Problems?

Some frequent problems with fuel pumps are as follows:

1. The fuel tank makes a whining noise

A loud whining sound is one of the first signs of a fuel pump malfunction. While running, an old or worn fuel pump may emit a noticeable whine or scream. There are a lot of fuel pumps that will emit a faint hum during normal operation, but if there is an overly loud whine emanating from the fuel tank, then it indicates a problem.

2. Issues in starting the car

A no-start condition is another more dangerous indicator of a fuel pump problem. Your vehicle can refuse to start if there is a failure in the fuel pump, to the where it cannot give enough fuel for the engine to function.

3.    Sputtering in the engine

A sputtering engine — at high speeds — is one of the most telling signs of a broken fuel pump. If you're traveling at a fast pace and the car engine suddenly sputters before you return to normal, then could be a sign of a problem with the car fuel pump.

4. Vehicle may experience difficulty starting

A difficult start is another common sign of a malfunctioning fuel pump. Fuel pumps can start to wear out and might even weaken with passing time since they are constantly running anytime the ignition is turned on. If the fuel pump is weak, it can still pump fuel, but the automobile may have trouble starting due to the lack of pressure.

5. Loss of Power Under Stress

If there is a loss of power when the automobile is under stress in situations like going uphill or carrying a large load or even when speeding up is another sign of a faulty fuel pump. If this is the case, then the car engine shuts down because the fuel pump's failing parts can't keep up with the car's increased gasoline demands.

6. Surging of the Automobile

Irregular resistance can cause vehicle surging inside the fuel pump motor, which signals a faulty fuel pump.

7. Gas mileage is low

A problem with the fuel pump may cause you to fill up your automobile more frequently than usual. There might be issues in the opening of your valve, which might allow more fuel to enter the engine system than is necessary.

8. High-Temperature Stalling

There can be several issues due to which stalling can be caused. Keep in mind to pay attention if it occurs regularly at high temperatures, as shown by the car's thermometer. If there is a rise in temperature and issues related to stalling, then it means that there is an issue with the fuel pump motor. 

Which Tools Do I Need To Repair My Car Fuel Pump?

If you were searching for top-quality tools to repair your Fuel Pump, then your search is over. Have a look at some tools which you might need to repair your Fuel Pump:

Which Top Brands Fuel Pump Parts Should I Choose?

Have a look at some top brands for Fuel Pump:

  • Spectra Premium Industries Fuel Pump And Parts
  • Russell Fuel Pump And Parts
  • Bosch Fuel Pump And Parts
  • Delphi Fuel Pump And Parts
  • Blue Streak (Hygrade Motor) Fuel Pump And Parts
  • Cooling Depot Fuel Pump And Parts

To know more about the top brand Car Fuel Pump, visit our “Which Popular Brand Fuel Pump Should I Choose?” section.

Which Parts Are Related To My Car Fuel Pump?

It is always good to learn more! That is the reason we are here to help you out in gaining more knowledge about the car Fuel Pump. Here are some Fuel Pump related parts that would help you to understand it in a better way.

  • Fuel Pump & Hanger Assembly
  • Fuel Pump Strainer
  • Fuel Pump Connector
  • Fuel Pump Tank Seal
  • Fuel Pump Control Module
  • Fuel Pump Pushrod
  • Fuel Pump Adapter
  • Fuel Pump Check Valve
  • Fuel Pump Pulsator
  • Fuel Pump Diaphragm
  • Fuel Pump Mount

What Are The Steps Of Changing My Car Fuel Pump?

Keen to know about the procedure of changing the Fuel Pump? Well, we have simplified the entire procedure for you:  

Step 1

The first and foremost step is to carefully verify the condition of the fuel pump.

Step 2

Then you should start preparing to restore the fuel pump. You should gather all the important tools and materials that would allow you to get your work done.

Step 3

Then the fuel pump should be removed from the fuel-injected vehicles.

Step 4

Then the fuel pump from the carbureted engines should be removed.

Step 5

After that, the next step is to install the fuel pumps onto the fuel-injected automobiles.

Step 6

Then the fuel pump should be installed onto the carburetted automobiles

Step 7

Then it is essential to check for leakages. First of the entire vehicle’s hood should be opened up and then the battery clamp should be tightened up to ensure that the connection is good. Then the ignition key should be turned on. Then inspect all the connections for leakages.

Step 8

Then it is essential to lower the automobile. the vehicle should be raised up and then the jack stands should be removed. Then the vehicle should be lowered down and then carefully remove the wheel chocks from the rear wheels and then put them aside.

Step 9

Then the car should be taken out for a test drive. Carefully inspect the dash for the fuel level as well as for the engine light.

If you are still confused about which type of car fuel pump you should buy, then you can visit our The Ultimate Fuel Pump Buying Guide. You should always look for the warning signs of a bad fuel pump and replace them at the earliest you can. With us, you can find fuel pumps at the most economical costs.

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FAQ

A faulty fuel pump will create a low pressure, causing the engine to run badly, and a completely failed pump would cause the engine to discontinue running or not start at all.

Contamination, overheating, and the gears in the fuel pump wearing out over time are the most common causes of fuel pump failure.

The fuel pump in your car should last at least 100,000 kilometers.

When driving at consistently high speeds, a sputtering engine is one of the best indicators that your fuel pump is failing. There could be a problem with your fuel pump if your car suddenly sputters and then resumes normal operation.

If your fuel pump is damaged, you'll notice a drop in fuel efficiency, acceleration, and power in your car.

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John Framigllia
Technical Writer
Our technical writer is known for simplifying automotive parts and services. Intuitive with various vehicles and manufacturers, he knows how to simplify complicated problems.