Signs of a Bad Fuel Pump

A fuel pump is an indispensable part of any modern engine with internal combustion. It’s the main part responsible for taking the fuel from the gas tank and pumping it into the engine at appropriate pressures. In modern engines, the fuel pump is electric and placed directly in the fuel tank while with some older models, you might see mechanical fuel pumps mounted near the front of the engine. Regardless of which type you have in your vehicle, spotting signs of a bad fuel pump is pretty much the same.

This article is going to be all about the most common bad fuel pump symptoms and how to properly diagnose them. Resolving issues with your fuel pump needs to be done in a timely manner, as driving your vehicle while such an essential part is malfunctioning will result in a significant drop in performance and could even lead to more expensive repairs.

5 Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump

• Difficulty Starting Due to Lack of Pressure

One of the most common fuel pump problems is a lack of pressure. If your engine is cranking while you’re turning the ignition switch but your car won’t start and run, you’re probably dealing with a malfunctioning fuel pump that has no pressure. If nothing happens when you turn the ignition, you might be dealing with a faulty battery. Investigating this type of issue is easy as long as you have the right tools at your disposal. All you need is a fuel pressure gauge checker. They are affordable and you can get them at your local car parts store. You’ll find the fuel test pressure port near the engine block. Attach the gauge checker and start your vehicle. If it’s showing zero pounds pressure, you’re dealing with a faulty pump.

• A Strange Noise Coming from the Fuel Tank

Another common signs of bad fuel pump is a loud and whining noise coming from the fuel tank. This is usually due to wear and tear the fuel pump takes over time. Pumps do not last forever and should be replaced every two hundred thousand miles in order to avoid these kinds of issues. Also, running your car on low fuel might shorten the lifespan of your fuel pump so that’s another thing to take into consideration when trying to diagnose the issues with your vehicle. 

• Stalling Due to Overheating

Fuel pumps are powered by a small motor that’s susceptible to overheating. This kind of issue can cause your car to stall while driving and could potentially lead to more serious damage to your engine. Pay close attention to your car’s thermometer as it could give you a better idea if you’re having trouble with overheating.

•  Engine Sputtering at High Speeds

Engine sputtering while accelerating or driving at high speeds is a clear indicator that something is wrong with your fuel pump. The sputtering is the result of the fuel pump not being able to keep up with the increased fuel demand and not being able to provide the engine with a constant stream of fuel. 

• Bad Gas Mileage

Poor fuel economy could be a symptom of many different issues, however, it is often linked to a malfunctioning fuel pump that’s pumping too much fuel into the engine. Clogged valves can obstruct the normal flow of the fuel so cleaning them might fix the problem. 

And there you have it, the most common symptoms of bad fuel pump you need to look out for. If you’re caught with a faulty pump and your car won’t start.