Your fuel pump is what pumps fuel from the tank to the engine in your car or truck. If it’s damaged or goes out on you, you’ll know right away. Of course, you won’t be able to start a car that can’t pump fuel, but there are other signs that your fuel pump is in trouble.
Sputtering at High Speeds
A fuel pump that’s faltering might still get your vehicle started, but it may have difficulty sustaining the speed. This is because it is pumping fuel, just not enough to maintain the speed, causing the engine to sputter or hiccup as you drive. The faster you go, the worse the sputtering gets.
Power Loss
When your automobile needs extra power, sometimes you can experience greater power loss than a sputter. For example, when you’re driving up a steep road, are towing a great load, or when you’ve overloaded your vehicle are all times when a bad fuel pump can cause power loss.
If the pump suddenly dies completely, you’ll be left stranded on the side of the road, unable to start the engine at all. The only to do then is call a tow truck.
Reduced Gas Mileage
A fuel pump that’s struggling enough to cause sputtering will also result in poor fuel efficiency. In order to sustain power, the engine uses as much fuel as it can. Sputtering plus poor gas mileage is a strong sign pointing toward fuel pump failure.
Constant Overheating
Overheating is usually a sign of engine trouble, but it can also be the accumulated effect of other problems going unnoticed or neglected by drivers. In this case, the fuel pump, which usually uses the gas or diesel that it pulls out of the tank as a coolant that stops the fuel pump motor from overheating, is unable to pump any fuel. This means the motor overheats, and, in turn, the engine does as well. If you suspect a problem with your fuel pump, you should get it looked into to prevent it from becoming an even costlier engine problem.
Reduced Fuel Pressure
If your fuel pump is failing, you’ll notice a reduction in the fuel pressure your car or truck’s engine generates. Manufacturers will instruct you to check your owner’s manual to see what the correct fuel pressure should be for your vehicle. If the pressure is below the rating recommended in your owner’s manual, this is a sign the fuel pump is what’s going bad.
What Can I Do about a Fuel Pump Problem?
Obviously, the best thing you can do is to take your vehicle to a mechanic. Fuel pump problems shouldn’t be ignored, lest you find yourself stranded somewhere. If your automobile is in such bad shape that you’re afraid you won’t make it to a mechanic, it’s best to have it towed rather than risk breaking down or damaging your engine.