Does Your Car Have a Bad Fuel Pump?

Nothing ruins a day faster than experiencing car trouble. You jump into your car, ready to go to work or drop the kids off at school, and the engine won’t turn over. The lights all work, and you have a full tank of gas. What gives? A little detective work may help you pinpoint the problem. Have you noticed your engine sputtering, overheating, or misfires? If you have and now your car won’t start, you may have a bad fuel pump or another issue with the fuel system. Below are more warning signs and ways to address them.

Fuel System Basics

Most modern gasoline-powered vehicles on the road today have an electric fuel pump located in the gas tank. It regulates both the volume and the pressure of the fuel as it pumps it through the system. When the pump works correctly, gasoline moves through fuel lines from the tank to the fuel filter located in the engine compartment. Most vehicles have a fuel pressure regulator to get the gasoline moving at the right volume and pressure for optimal combustion by the fuel injectors or carburetor. Once the fuel combusts, the fumes exit through the exhaust system.

Avoid Getting A Bad Fuel Pump

These days, car manufacturers design fuel pumps to last a long time, but occasionally they can go bad. Here are a few ways to help your fuel pump last as long as possible: 

• Use quality gasoline.
• Maintain more than 1/4 tank of gas in your vehicle at all times.
• Keep up with the factory’s suggested routine maintenance schedule. 

The following warning signs can indicate a faulty fuel pump or another issue with your fuel system. Schedule a diagnostic service with your auto repair shop if you are experiencing any of these issues.

Bad Fuel Pump Warning Signs

Engine Sputtering & Misfire

A rough-running engine that sputters or misfires indicates an issue with the fuel delivery system. Additionally, other common signs are hesitations when accelerating or issues maintaining higher speeds.

Car Won’t Start

There can be many reasons why your car won’t start. A faulty fuel pump may be the cause if you have ruled out a dead battery. The engine cannot turn over if it does not receive enough gasoline from the fuel tank. Do you hear a whining sound from the fuel tank? It can indicate that the fuel pump is dying or needs immediate service.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

You may notice a reduction in fuel efficiency with a bad fuel pump. When the engine receives too much fuel, the excess is wasted, thus using more gas than necessary. Schedule a diagnostic service with your technician if you are filling your gas tank more than usual.

Overheating Engine

An engine that receives too much or too little fuel has to work harder to run. A failing fuel pump can overheat, which by extension can cause the engine to overheat. This excess stress on the engine can show an increase in the temperature gauge on the dashboard. It can also trigger a Check Engine Light. Any time the check engine light is activated, bring your car in so your service technician can diagnose the problem.

Auto Repair Service in San Diego, CA

Since 1998, Wentworth Automotive has provided motorists with comprehensive auto repair. Our goal is to provide quality services at affordable prices to get you quickly back on the road. Our team of technicians is here to help you sort out your fuel system concerns. 

Schedule A Bad Fuel Pump Service

Contact us today by phone (858) 541-1044 or via our website to schedule a Fuel System Service appointment. You can count on Wentworth Automotive for a reliable diagnosis and quality repairs.