The fuel pump is one of the crucial parts of your car. Without the fuel pump, no fuel will be pumped to the engine and it will not be able to function. Modern fuel pumps usually last very long. It has a lifetime of around 5,000 to 10,000 hours. There is no need to replace the fuel pumps during the lifetime for plenty of cars. They are usually sturdy pieces, yet in some situations, owners have to deal with defective fuel pumps.

How To Know Your Fuel Pump Is Defective?

Usually, a fuel pump does not stop functioning all of a sudden. If you listen carefully, there are some signs that tell you the fuel pump is not working properly. You can hear a buzzing sound or a loud sound when the fuel pump is working. Another indicator that helps to understand that there is something wrong with the fuel pump is that the engine stalls unexpectedly or is difficult to start. However, these problems can be attributed to clogged fuel filters or broken ignition switch as well. It is not always easy to diagnose a faulty fuel pump.

It is difficult to tell which part in your fuel system is actually having a problem and needs to be changed. Examine the hoses and tighten them up. If you cannot make out what exactly the source of the problem is, it is better to seek the help of a professional. The professional will tell you if the fuel pump has to be changed or it just needs simple fixes.

Is It Possible To Change The Fuel Pump On Your Own?

If you have an interest in the car mechanics and have the technical know-how, you can probably repair the fuel pump on your own. Though the repairing process differs according to the model of the car but the basic principle remains the same. If your fuel pump has to be changed, you need to decide whether you will buy from the dealership or purchase it from an auto parts store. If you have an old car, purchasing from the company dealership may make it very expensive. Once you have purchased the pump, it is time to start with the replacement process.

First, you need to disconnect the battery. Fuel pumps are usually placed on the tank and you can access them from the bottom of the trunk. In some of the cars, you need to go below the rear seats. To prevent yourself from inhaling gas fumes you need to wear a protective mask. You need to open the fuel cap, unscrew the cover and disconnect all the electrical connections. You have to remove the whole part with the connectors. Make sure there is no gas left in the hoses. Once you are successful in taking out the old pump, it is time to install the new pump. You need to follow the same steps in the reverse order.

You may find this job too difficult to do yourself or you may not have the specialized tools to complete this work. In such situations, seek professional assistance.