A fuel pump serves the same purpose in a vehicle, as the heart in a living being. It facilitates the supply of fuel to the engine, making it one of the integral components of vehicle assembly. Symptoms of a bad fuel pump are an immediate cause for concern, as it can adversely affect the working and long-term efficiency of the automobile.
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 of a Fuel Pump : The fuel injectors are to be supplied with fuel at 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 mechanically operated spring or a computerized system opens up these holes for fuel supply. In case of a breakdown, or turning the ignition off, the supply is automatically cut-off.
Fuel pumps stop working due to a variety of reasons. Once this happens, the supply to the injectors is automatically stopped and the vehicle stalls. The effect is similar to running out of gas. Another problem 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.
Major Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump
One thing to consider is changing the fuel filters. Sometimes it the filter that causes the problem, not the pump itself. Changing the filter is an easy job and costs a few bucks. If that doesn’t solve the problem, then you can move on to replace the fuel pump. Replacing the pump may be a costly affair (the price depends on the year and make of the car), so it is definitely worth a shot to replace the cheaper parts first. It also means that you should always update your warranty and insurance; doing so helps in cutting down the costs considerably.