You will have noticeable engine problems if your fuel pump is going bad. You may not be able to get your car started if it has gone out completely. Don’t worry. Mike’s Auto Service & Repair can replace your fuel pump if necessary. This auto part generally lasts about 100,000 miles. If you drive a high-mileage automobile, it’s possible that you will need a new fuel pump soon. Keep an eye out for the following signs of a bad fuel pump.
High Speeds Make Your Engine Sputter
You’re driving along and you notice that your engine starts to sputter. The faster you go the more the engine sputters. This is a sign that the engine is not getting enough fuel to maintain your current speed. The fuel pump could be to blame if it is unable to push the fuel through to the engine.
You Cannot Get Your Engine Started
As we mentioned above, if your fuel pump dies completely, you won’t be able to get your car, truck, or C/SUV started. The reason why is that there is no fuel being pumped into the engine from the gasoline or diesel fuel tank.
You Have Low Fuel Pressure
A precursor to this is low fuel pressure. The more the fuel pump malfunctions the less fuel pressure you may have. Head to the auto parts store and purchase a fuel gauge. Grab a helper and test your fuel pressure. Where the fuel pressure should be is listed in your owner’s manual.
Your Engine’s Temperature Is Hot
If you’ve noticed that your engine has been running hot lately, it could be because the fuel pump motor is overheating. The fuel pump motor relies on the fuel being pulled out of the tank to keep it cool. If the fuel pump is malfunctioning, it may not be drawing enough fuel out of the tank to cool the motor. The motor’s heat is transferred to your vehicle’s engine.
Your Gas Mileage Isn’t What It Used to Be
Another sign you’ve got fuel pump problems is if your gas mileage is suffering. It’s possible that the engine is either getting too little or too much fuel from the pump and, as a consequence, it is burning the fuel more quickly. This can directly affect your fuel economy.
Your Vehicle Loses Power When Stressed
Finally, if your vehicle is loaded up with stuff, if you are towing a trailer behind your vehicle, or if you are driving up a steep hill and you suddenly start to lose power, your fuel pump is unable to supply the extra fuel your vehicle needs to continue operating when it is under stress.
Mike’s Auto Service & Repair in West Springfield, MA, is here to help, so call us today.
