The average lifespan of a fuel pump is 100,000 miles. If your odometer reads more than that and you notice any of the following signs listed below, Crossroads Automotive warns that your fuel pump is most likely going bad. Replacing the fuel pump solves the problem and we can do that here in our shop.
Whining Sounds
If your fuel pump has been damaged, you may hear loud whining noises coming from your gas tank. It’s important to get any strange sounds diagnosed right away to make sure you aren’t damaging your vehicle by continuing to drive it.
Starting Difficulty
Because the fuel pump is responsible for transferring the fuel from the tank to the engine, a dead fuel pump will make it impossible to start your automobile because there’s no gas in the engine. You might have starting difficulties before the fuel pump dies completely.
Engine Problems
If the fuel pump is unable to push enough gas through to the engine, your engine will become fuel-starved and sputter as it runs. This is because the engine needs a constant stream of fuel while it’s operating and the fuel pump isn’t providing that.
Stalling
The more damaged your fuel pump is the more likely the engine will be to actually stall. You might stall while you are sitting at an idle or while in motion due to lack of fuel. The engine might also stall because the fuel pump is overheating and, in turn, making the engine too hot.
Power Loss
Another sign your fuel pump is bad is losing power when your engine is under stress. Things that make the engine work harder include driving up steep hills and towing heavy items. If you notice stress-related power loss, it could be the fuel pump or you overloading your vehicle beyond its capacity.
Surges
The fuel pump can also malfunction and send too much fuel to the engine. If this happens, your engine will surge and buck like a bronco. Sometimes, the fuel pump gets stuck in the open position and the flow of fuel is constant.
Low Gas Mileage
A malfunctioning fuel pump can also affect your gas mileage. If you’ve been making more trips than normal to the gas station, it could be the fuel pump. Perhaps it is sending too much fuel into the engine or the engine is starved for fuel and working too hard.
Crossroads Automotive in Topeka, KS, is happy to inspect your fuel pump and replace it if necessary. Call us today to set up an appointment.