In case you were wondering, the average lifespan of a factory fuel pump is 100,000 miles. Primary Care Auto Repair can replace your fuel pump if it goes bad. We are going to list the signs and symptoms of a malfunctioning fuel pump below. Bring your vehicle to our shop as soon as possible if you notice any of the following problems.
A Struggling Engine
You probably already know this but the fuel pump supplies the engine with fuel. If the fuel pump is unable to send enough fuel into the engine, the engine will struggle. You will notice that your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s engine has particular problems when you are driving at high speeds or when the engine is under stress. The engine needs extra fuel in these conditions.
A Surging Engine
A faulty fuel pump can also cause problems with the engine if it pushes too much fuel into it. When this happens, your engine will surge unexpectedly. These unexpected speed changes can make driving your automobile difficult. You will not feel as if you are in control of the vehicle because it will pick up speed by itself.
Reduced Gas Mileage
Naturally, these two problems will reduce the gas mileage that your vehicle gets per gallon. This is because the engine is burning away more fuel than it normally does. Another thing that can reduce the gas mileage is if the fuel pump starts to leak fuel out of it.
Reduced Fuel Pressure
One way to determine whether the fuel pump is operating correctly is to check your vehicle’s fuel pressure. If the pressure is low, the fuel pump is not doing its job. You will find the fuel pressure range in your owner’s manual and the proper gauge at an auto parts store.
An Overheating Engine
If the fuel pressure is low, the fuel pump motor may not be getting enough fuel flowing over it to keep it cool. Consequently, this will overheat the fuel pump motor. As this excess heat makes its way into your engine, your engine will overheat and then install.
Whining Fuel Tank Noises
Another sign that the fuel pump is going bad is if you hear whining noises coming from the fuel tank. This is an indication that the fuel pump is not operating as it should be. Rather, it is giving you an audible clue that it is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.
Hard Starts or No Starts
Finally, a dying fuel pump will make it nearly impossible to start your automobile. In severe cases, you will end up with a dead engine. This is why it’s important to bring your vehicle to our shop as soon as possible if the fuel pump is going bad.
Call Primary Care Auto Repair in Warwick, RI, today to schedule a service appointment if you suspect that your vehicle’s fuel pump is having problems.