How to Diagnose a Failing Fuel Pump
A fuel pump is an essential component of a vehicles engine, as it is responsible for supplying gasoline to the engine in order to power the car. When a fuel pump begins to fail, it can cause a variety of issues and can eventually lead to your car not starting. Therefore, it is important to diagnose a failing fuel pump as soon as possible. Here is a guide on how to diagnose a failing fuel pump and what signs to look out for.
Check Engine Light
If the fuel pump is beginning to fail, the first sign you may notice is the Check Engine light illuminating on your dashboard. The vehicles computer will be able to detect any irregularities in the fuel system and this can indicate a potential issue with the fuel pump. It is best to have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional mechanic in order to determine the exact cause of the Check Engine light.
Noise from the Fuel Tank
If the fuel pump is beginning to fail, you may hear a loud whining or buzzing noise coming from the fuel tank. This noise is caused by the pump straining to supply the correct pressure to the fuel system, and as it fails, the noise will become louder. If you hear this type of noise, it is best to have the fuel pump inspected as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.
Difficult Starting
A failing fuel pump can cause difficulties when starting the vehicle. This can be due to the lack of fuel pressure being supplied to the engine, leading to it not receiving enough fuel to start. If the vehicle is taking longer than usual to start or is struggling to turn over, this could indicate a failing fuel pump.
Misfiring Engine
Another indication of a failing fuel pump is a misfiring engine. This is due to the engine not receiving the correct amount of fuel and can cause the vehicle to jerk and shutter while driving. If you experience this problem, it is best to have the fuel pump inspected as soon as possible.
Fluctuating Fuel Pressure
The fuel pump is responsible for supplying the correct fuel pressure to the engine in order to ensure it is running correctly. If the fuel pump begins to fail, the pressure may become too low or too high and this can cause a variety of issues. If you notice that the fuel pressure is fluctuating, it is best to have the fuel pump inspected.
Vehicle Not Starting
If the fuel pump fails completely, it can cause the vehicle to not start at all. This is due to the engine not receiving any fuel and the vehicle will not be able to turn over. If the vehicle fails to start, it is best to have the fuel pump replaced as soon as possible.
These are the signs to look out for when diagnosing a failing fuel pump. If any of these symptoms are observed, it is best to have the fuel pump inspected by a professional mechanic in order to prevent further damage to the vehicle