Your car’s fuel pump is one of those components you probably don’t think much about until it stops working. This part ensures that fuel from your gas tank gets to the engine so your car can run. But when the fuel pump fails, it’s game over until you get it repaired. So, what causes a fuel pump to stop working, and how can you spot the signs before you're stranded on the side of the road? These are the common causes and what you can do to prevent a malfunction.
1. Contaminated Fuel or Debris in the Gas Tank
One of the most common causes of fuel pump failure is contaminated fuel or debris. Over time, dirt, rust, or other particles can accumulate in your gas tank. If this debris makes its way to the fuel pump, it can clog or damage the pump, reducing its efficiency or causing it to fail entirely. Low-quality fuel or water in the fuel can also corrode the pump, leading to early wear.
To minimize the chances of this happening:
- Stick to high-quality fuel from reputable gas stations.
- Consider installing a fuel filter if your vehicle doesn’t already have one.
- Keep your gas tank at least a quarter full to prevent debris from settling and entering the fuel pump.
- Regularly maintaining your fuel system can help protect the fuel pump from these contaminants.
2. Overheating Due to Low Fuel Levels
Running your car on low fuel consistently isn’t just risky for your trip—it’s bad for your fuel pump, too. The pump relies on gasoline in the tank to stay cool. When you run on a near-empty tank, the pump may overheat and wear out faster than normal. Repeatedly allowing the fuel pump to overheat will eventually lead to failure.
The best practice here is simple: Keep your tank full as much as possible. Not only does this prevent your fuel pump from overheating, but it also reduces the chances of debris making its way into the system.
3. Electrical Issues
Your car’s fuel pump is powered by electricity, so any disruption in its electrical supply can cause problems. A blown fuse, faulty wiring, or a problem with the relay switch can all result in the fuel pump not getting enough power to operate.
How do you know if the issue is electrical? One telltale sign is if your car won’t start at all or if it starts intermittently despite having fuel. A dead or malfunctioning fuel pump may mimic other electrical issues in your vehicle, so it’s important to get it diagnosed by a professional if you're not sure.
4. Wear and Tear from Age
Like all car parts, fuel pumps have a lifespan. Over time, the constant operation of the pump leads to natural wear and tear, especially if the car is driven frequently or under strenuous conditions. Once the pump has reached the end of its life, it may start to fail intermittently or stop working altogether.
There’s no surefire way to predict exactly when a fuel pump will wear out, but keeping an eye on your vehicle's mileage and being aware of any unusual sounds or performance issues can give you a heads-up that a failure might be on the horizon. On average, fuel pumps last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, but this can vary depending on the car and driving habits.
5. Faulty Fuel Pump Relay or Fuse
Another electrical-related problem that can stop a fuel pump from working is a faulty relay or blown fuse. The fuel pump relies on these components to receive power. If either one fails, the pump will not engage, and your engine won’t get the fuel it needs.
In many cases, simply replacing the fuse or relay can solve the issue, but if the problem persists, the fuel pump itself may need to be inspected or replaced.
Preventing Fuel Pump Failure
While some causes of fuel pump failure, like age, are unavoidable, there are plenty of things you can do to extend its life and avoid costly repairs:
- Keep the gas tank at least a quarter full to avoid overheating and contamination.
- Use high-quality fuel from reputable sources to prevent rust and debris from damaging the pump.
- Pay attention to your car’s behavior—any unusual sounds or performance issues may indicate that your fuel pump is struggling.
- Schedule regular inspections with your trusted auto shop to check the fuel system and electrical connections.
- Taking care of your car’s fuel system not only prolongs the life of the fuel pump but ensures your vehicle stays reliable for years to come.
If you're experiencing stalling or difficulty starting your car, your fuel pump could be to blame. Visit South Park Tire & Auto Center for a thorough inspection and expert repair. Don’t wait until you’re stranded—schedule your service now!