What is a fuel pump?
Unless your vehicle uses an electric motor, its engine needs a steady supply of fuel, and that's where the fuel pump comes in.
The fuel pump transports gas from the gas tank to the engine and ensures the pressure of the fuel is just right.
Engines don't work without gasoline or diesel, so without a fuel pump supplying the right amount of fuel, you can't drive.
What are the signs of a bad fuel pump?
You may have a problem with your fuel pump if you experience any of the following:
Your car has a hard time starting, won’t start, or starts and then suddenly stalls
The check engine light is on, indicating that fuel pressure is lower than normal
You hear a whirring or humming noise coming from the rear of the car, near the fuel tank
A failing fuel pump will make you feel as if you’re driving on nothing but fumes, even if your fuel gauge reads “Full”. A nearly-dead fuel pump may prevent you from starting your car at all.
Keep in mind: The symptoms of a bad fuel pump often overlap with those of other malfunctioning parts, so always consult with an experienced mechanic when diagnosing an issue.
What is the life expectancy of a fuel pump?
Thanks to modern technology, the lifespan of the average fuel pump is 100,000 miles or more.
Older, mechanical fuel pumps probably can’t match this number. That’s not to say electric fuel pumps can’t fail—overheating, contaminants, and dirty fuel can cause a pump of any age to fail.
What do you have to do to replace a fuel pump?
A fuel pump replacement is a DIY job that requires patience and attention to detail.
It doesn't pose a high safety risk, but your repairs could end up backfiring and preventing your car from starting. Schedule a whole day for repairs and don’t complete them on the eve of a big trip.
Your biggest challenge will be finding instructions on releasing the car's fuel pressure and dismantling the fuel assembly, both of which vary from vehicle to vehicle. You should also wear plenty of protective gear and prepare some lemon and baking soda in case you need to remove the smell of gasoline from your hands
. For the average driver, we recommend that you let a certified mechanic diagnose and fix the problem.