The factory fuel pump that was installed in your automobile when it was assembled should last about 100,000 miles. You may begin to notice the following problems after you have put that many miles on your car, truck, or utility vehicle. Cergizan’s Auto & Truck Repair can help, so don’t worry. We’d be happy to test your fuel pump and replace it if it has gone bad. Here are signs that it has.
A Reduction in Fuel Pressure
One of the first things that happens with the faulty fuel pump is a reduction in your vehicle’s fuel pressure. This is because the fuel pump is no longer able to draw the gasoline or diesel fuel out of the tank and send it to the engine under normal pressure conditions. The fuel pump motor is dying out. You can test your fuel pressure yourself. Purchase a fuel pressure gauge to see if the fuel pressure is within the range recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
A Reduction in Gas Mileage
Another reduction that occurs with a dying fuel pump is a reduction in your vehicle’s gas mileage. Whether the fuel pump is not pumping enough gas into the engine or it is pumping too much gas, your engine’s efficiency will be compromised. Any time the engine’s efficiency is compromised, you do not get the fuel economy promised on the sticker when you purchased your automobile.
Difficulties Starting the Engine
If the fuel pump is struggling to pump fuel, you will also have difficulty starting the engine. Depending on the severity of the fuel pump’s problem, the engine may not start at all. It’s important to have starting difficulties diagnosed at the first sign of trouble.
Power Loss at High Speeds
A dying fuel pump is also unable to supply the extra fuel needed to sustain high speeds. You will notice that your vehicle begins to sputter and struggle when you are driving at higher speeds.
Power Loss When Under Stress
The same thing will happen when your engine is under stress because it needs extra fuel in these conditions. Specifically, your vehicle’s engine is under stress when you are navigating up steep inclines, towing a trailer, or stuffing the vehicle full of heavy things.
Unusual Engine Overheating
Finally, the fuel pump can actually make your engine overheat even though everything in the cooling system looks good. This is because a dying fuel pump motor overheats and the heat is transferred into the engine.
Cergizan’s Auto & Truck Repair in Chesterton, IN, is here to help, so give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your automobile.