Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump

The technological advances in automobile engineering have facilitated greater developments in the pumping mechanism used in a vehicle. Modern vehicles usually have an electric fuel pump which is located near the fuel tank. Some fuel systems consist of a pumping mechanism divided into two different parts.

Working

Fuel injector is used to supply fuel to all the concerned auto parts. These injectors are to be constantly supplied with fuel under a constant pressure and volume. The injectors have small needle-sized holes at the tip, to inject fuel in to the various systems. On ignition, a computerized system opens up these holes for fuel supply. In case of a breakdown, or turning off the ignition, the supply is automatically cut-off. The time period for which the supply is maintained on ignition depends on the part under operation, and can vary according to the needs of the sensor.

Fuel pumps stop working due to a variety of reasons. Once this happens, the supply to the injectors is automatically stalled and the vehicle stalls as well. The effect is similar to the problem of running out of gas. Another problem associated with the pump is proper functioning of the electrical mechanism of the pumping system. The electrical supply consists of devices like the relay and the fuse. If the fuse or the relay develop problems or blows off, it will again result in breakdown, as the driving mechanism for fuel supply is cut off.

Another major symptom is overheating. If the pump gets heated frequently within a few minutes of turning on the vehicle power, it is a sign that it needs replacement. A bad pump will also show signs of frequent stopping or intermittent breakdown. It will work for around 15-20 minutes and stop working. Once, the vehicle is allowed to remain idle for around 30 minutes, the engine cools down, and the pump functions normally. Such a problem is an indicative sign.

If the flow to the fuel injection system is not constant, the engine may develop problems. Signs include a hesitant start or a stumbling problem on ignition. If small, unwanted debris or grainy particles enter the pumping system it can cause a breakdown, thus, abrupt stopping of a vehicle can also be considered a symptom. If the filtering mechanism develops a problem or gets struck up with impurities, the engine will show symptoms like rough firing and fickle working.

In order to maintain smooth functioning of the vehicle, fuel pump must be at the highest performance level consistently. Part of the effort should be directed to ensure that auto warranty and auto insurance papers and formalities are updated, if the need arises to stake claim for any compensation. It is the responsibility of the automobile owner to prevent fuel pump problems.