Your engine would not get any diesel fuel or gasoline without a fuel pump. This pump draws the fuel out of the tank and transports it through the fuel system into the engine. A fuel pump will last about 100,000 miles. After this duration, J&S Auto Repair warns that you may notice one or more of the six signs that the fuel pump is dying listed below.
1. A Reduction in Fuel Economy
It might seem odd that your fuel economy will be reduced if the engine isn’t getting the fuel it needs to run but this actually causes the engine to burn through the fuel more quickly. In addition, a faulty fuel pump can get stuck in the open position and send too much fuel into the engine.
2. A Reduction in Fuel Pressure
The fuel pump directly affects your vehicle’s fuel pressure. If you open your owner’s manual, you will see that there is a recommended range of fuel pressure. One clear sign that the fuel pump is dying is a reduction in your vehicle’s fuel pressure.
3. An Overheating Engine
If your engine has suddenly started overheating and stalling frequently, it’s possible that the fuel pump is the problem. The fuel pump relies on the liquid it draws from the gas tank to keep its motor cool. If it is unable to cool itself with the fuel, it will overheat and transfer that heat to the engine.
4. High-Speed Sputtering
As you pick up speed, the fuel pump pushes more gasoline or diesel fuel through to the engine. If it is unable to do this, your engine will start to sputter the faster you go. This is a sign that the engine is being fuel-starved most likely due to a malfunctioning fuel pump.
5. Power Loss When Stressed
The engine can also lose power when it is under stress if the fuel pump is not sending enough fuel into it. For example, your engine may lag seriously when you are driving up a steep hill. It may also lag when you are towing a trailer behind you.
6. You Can’t Start the Engine
Finally, if the fuel pump dies completely, you won’t be able to start your engine. The reason why is simple: There is no fuel in the engine. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get your car started until you replace the dead fuel pump.
We can do that here at J&S Auto Repair in Warwick, RI, so give us a call today if you suspect your fuel pump is going bad.
