A dead fuel pump means no gasoline in the engine. Naturally, if there isn’t any gasoline pumped into the engine you won’t be able to start your automobile. Thankfully, Hummel’s Automotive Diagnostic & Repair advises that you usually get signs that your fuel pump is dying before you can’t start your car, truck, or utility vehicle. Here is what the signs are.
Fuel Economy Loss
Oddly, one of the first things you will notice is that your fuel efficiency has been reduced. This is because the engine is working extra hard because it is fuel-starved. Another condition that reduces your fuel efficiency is too much fuel in the combustion chamber, and this can happen if the fuel pump is stuck in the open position.
High-Speed Sputtering
An engine that is fuel starved will also sputter when you pick up speed. You may notice acceleration lag and difficulties driving at higher speeds. This is because the engine does not have enough fuel in it to accommodate the speed at which you wish to drive. Unfortunately, you will continue to have these engine performance issues until you replace the fuel pump.
Low Fuel Pressure
This is because there is low fuel pressure going into the engine. One sure sign that your fuel pump is malfunctioning is low fuel pressure. You can purchase a gauge at the auto parts store to test the fuel pressure and do so at home. If you don’t want to be bothered with it, bring your vehicle to us and we will test your fuel pressure.
Overheating Engine
Another odd sign of a dying fuel pump is an overheating engine. Usually, when the fuel pump begins to malfunction, the motor overheats. Once the fuel pumps motor is too hot, it will transfer that heat to your vehicle’s engine and, consequently, your engine will overheat and stall.
Stress Power Loss
As with high speeds, your vehicle’s engine also needs extra fuel when it is under stress. If it isn’t getting the extra fuel it needs, it will lag. You may notice this lag when you drive on steep roads, when you have your car completely loaded with staff, or when you’re towing a trailer behind your vehicle.
Surging Engine
Finally, if the fuel pump is stuck in the open position in your engine is getting too much diesel fuel or gasoline, it will pick up speed in spurts. This is called a surging engine and you will feel as if you are driving a bucking bronco.
Call Hummel’s Automotive Diagnostic & Repair in St. George, UT, today if you are experiencing any of the problems listed above. We can replace your dying fuel pump.
