How Do You Fix a Fuel Pump That’s Not Pressurizing?

When a fuel pump is not pressurizing, the engine will not get the proper flow of fuel, thus it may stall, have rough idling, or not start at all. Several diagnostic steps are required to fix this problem. First, the fuel pressure should be tested by using a fuel pressure gauge, and it usually reads between 30 to 60 psi depending on the vehicle. A reading outside this range would indicate a problem either with the fuel pump or the fuel pressure regulator. For instance, if the fuel pressure is too low, the pump may have failed to create the required pressure, which could be due to a damaged or worn-out pump motor or a clogged filter.
One of the leading causes of fuel pump failure is a clogged fuel filter, which restricts fuel flow to the engine. If the filter has been in use for over 30,000 miles, replacement should be one of the first steps. According to a report from the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA), up to 10% of fuel pump failures are linked directly to fuel filter blockages. For this, change the fuel filter to a new one, making sure that it is of the right manufacturer’s specifications.

Second, go ahead and take a look at the electrical connections towards the fuel pump. Sometimes the relay is bad or a fuse has blown, leading to the pump not turning on. Electrical diagnostics such as checking voltage at the terminals of the fuel pump should be constant, at about 12 volts when the ignition is turned on. A no-power scenario could signify problems with the fuel pump relay, which costs $20 to $50. In some cases, this could be a damaged wiring harness that needs repair or replacement.

If the fuel pump is still showing underperformance beyond the repairs, then it’s time for the pump replacement. Generally speaking, fuel pumps last about 100,000 miles or so, depending on bad maintenance or contamination that can decrease their lifespan. For example, if the tank has a lot of junk inside it, that will also damage the inner components of the pump, causing it to fail sooner. Replacing a faulty fuel pump costs anywhere from $400 to $800, depending on the make and model of your car. The procedure generally includes draining the fuel tank, removing the old pump, and installing a new one, which often takes a few hours in labor.

In extreme cases, the fuel pump module, which houses the fuel pump, filter, and sending unit, may need replacement. As automotive engineer Mark Thompson says, “A failing fuel pump is often the result of multiple issues such as clogging, electrical failure, or wear. Diagnosing and fixing the root cause can prevent further damage and ensure the proper functioning of the engine.” Regular inspection and maintenance of the fuel system, including the fuel pump and filter, can greatly extend the pump’s lifespan and prevent costly repairs.

For those looking for reliable fuel pumps and accessories, visiting a trusted source like Fuel Pump ensures the availability of high-quality, durable components.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top
Scroll to Top