Understanding the Impact of a Failing Fuel Pump on Your Vehicle’s Performance
Introduction to Fuel Pumps
Your vehicle doesn’t run smoothly. When diagnosing the issue, make sure to check the fuses and relays first. A widely used method is to gently tap the fuel tank with a wide mallet; sometimes this can temporarily revive the pump.
Common Issues with Fuel Pumps
When the engine stops suddenly, it often means the fuel pump has quit working entirely. However, a failing fuel pump may not completely stop functioning. There are fuses, relays, and a fuel pump control module (FPCM) between the pump and the 12VDC source. An impact safety shut-off switch is also present to halt fuel flow if there is damage to the fuel line between the pump and the fuel injectors.
To restart the car, you may need to reset a switch, usually found in the trunk. An OBD scan tool can be instrumental in troubleshooting and might save you the cost of a part replacement.
Kinds of Fuel Pumps
Vehicles have two types of fuel pumps: mechanical and electric. Mechanical pumps can either produce or deliver too much or too little fuel. Electric pumps tend to fail by delivering less fuel over time. Engines with carburetors are sensitive to overpressure, leading to a flooded condition. Fuel injection engines perform poorly under both low and high pressure, with high pressure being rare.
Both types of fuel delivery systems require pressure regulation. This can be internal to the fuel pump or managed by an external regulator. A loss of pressure regulation often leads to engine performance issues, as seen in the example where the car ran fine in town but exhibited a slight "sag" at highway speeds due to fuel loss.
Closing Remarks
In the vast majority of cases, a failing fuel pump will cause the car not to run. However, it is possible for the pump to only partially fail, leading to intermittent performance issues. A data logger can help identify such issues, as was the case with the author's father's vehicle. Seeking professional advice and using diagnostic tools can help ensure accurate and efficient troubleshooting.
Keywords: Fuel Pump, Car Engine, Vehicle Performance