News
Fuel Pump: Something You Need To Know
What is the function of a Fuel Pump?
The fuel pump is a vital part of your vehicle's mechanics that sends the gas in the tank through the fuel system and into the engine. During this process, the gasoline passes through a fuel filter into the fuel injectors and then combusts inside the cylinders.
Without a pump, gasoline would have no way of reaching the engine, and the pistons would be without enough fuel to provide power to the driveline.
The engine is the heart of your car, and a fuel pump is one of the most essential components keeping it running the way it should.
How Long Does a Fuel Pump Usually Last?
Fuel pumps are a simple and rugged part of the fuel system. They are usually found inside the fuel tank and are responsible for sending fuel from the tank to the engine. Because this job is very important and the location of the fuel pump is so difficult to access, the pump is built to be tough. There is no reason to replace the fuel pump before 100,000 miles preemptively. Fuel pumps have sometimes been known to last for over 200,000 miles. After 100,000 miles, the failure of the pump is likely enough that if you are replacing a major part of the fuel system nearby, it may be advantageous to replace it at the same time.
What makes a fuel pump last longer?
General use and fuel quality are the two biggest factors that contribute to the lifespan of the fuel pump. There are a few ways that the average driver can extend the life of their fuel pump with very little effort:
Always keep the tank at least a quarter of the way full.
The gas acts as a coolant for the fuel pump, and if the tank runs dry, then there is no liquid to cool the pump. Overheating shortens the life of the fuel pump.
The weight of the fuel helps move it out of the tank, and with less fuel, there is less pressure pushing it through the fuel pump, meaning there is more effort taken by the pump (shortening its life).
Impurities and any debris from gasoline or from dust and dirt that has gotten into the tank will sink to the bottom. When the fuel on the bottom of the tank is sucked into the fuel pump, the debris could cause damage. The fuel filter can protect the injectors and engine from debris, but the pump is affected.
Keep the fuel system maintained.
Parts in the fuel system are meant to function for a long time if maintained correctly. With regular inspections and fuel filter replacements, the parts will last as long as the manufacturer intends.
Ensure the gas cap has a good seal; otherwise, fuel vapor can get out, and dust and debris can get in.
Avoid gas pumps and gas stations that appear poorly maintained. If there is water in the gas or corrosion on the nozzles, this can cause damage to the fuel system and shorten the life of the fuel pump. Cheap gas is just fine, as fuel quality is well regulated in the US, but gas pumps in a state of disrepair are still present occasionally.
What are the Signs of a Bad Fuel Pump?
The average fuel pump lasts for more than 100,000 miles and sometimes longer, so more than likely, you won't have to worry about it failing for quite a while. But the more miles your car accumulates, the more liable you will run into a failed fuel pump. So what are the signs?
1- Difficulty Starting
If your pump loses power, it will have trouble getting gas to the engine in time for your starter to kick in. You might have to turn the ignition multiple times to get enough gas to the fuel injectors.
2- Engine stuttering
The problem doesn't stop when your motor starts running. The pump needs a constant fuel supply as long as you are driving. Since your engine's fuel supply is inconsistent, it will sputter when the fuel goes on and off.
3- Loss of power
When the fuel pump experiences a minor drop in performance, you might not even feel any stuttering. Instead, you could experience a loss of power when you're hauling heavy loads, going up inclines, or accelerating quickly. These are all cases where the motor needs a lot of fuel, and the pump can't keep up.
4- Noise from your fuel tank
A fuel pump usually produces a soft hum, which is inaudible over your car's normal operating noise. If a loud whirring sound comes from your fuel tank, your pump is most likely malfunctioning.
5- Loss of fuel efficiency
Modern fuel pumps are computer-controlled to provide just the right amount of fuel. Whether you're getting too little or too much, it will negatively impact your fuel efficiency. If your vehicle is getting poor mileage for no apparent reason, it could be your fuel pump.
How Does A Fuel Pump Replacement Work?
The mechanic attaches the mounting brackets to the pump and installs it back in the tank. Usually, the mechanic will also change the fuel filter at this point, and they will inspect the lines for cracks and other damage. Then, the mechanic reconnects all the hoses and reinstalls the tank if they had to remove it earlier.
In some vehicles, there's an access panel inside the passenger compartment, which you can use to get into the fuel tank. If there is no access panel, the tank must first be drained, released from its harness, and removed from the vehicle. The mechanic then disconnects all supply hoses and removes the pump from the tank.
Conclusion
Under ordinary conditions, fuel pumps will last for decades without needing a replacement. By identifying symptoms, you can address potential problems before your pump fails. Depending on your vehicle, a replacement can be expensive. However, replacing your damaged pump ahead of time is cheaper than waiting until your car breaks down. If your fuel pump is damaged or you need to buy one, you can come to our website to buy it, and we will bring you the most professional experience.
