There are a number of ways to tell a fuel pump is in need of replacement and at Kenoyer Motor Co., we feel it's good information. This is a telltale sign — the engine sputters during acceleration. Approximately 25% of fuel pump failures have been reported to involve the engine sputtering as per The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. If the pump cannot suck up enough fuel based on demand -- typically 40 to 60 psi output pressure -- then the engine will start to stumble when loaded.
Another big clue to a fuel pump problem is when the car has a hard time getting started. When you turn on the car, but your vehicle not starts immediately or it requires several attempts then this is a sign of fuel pump going out. Almost 30% of no-start problems are with fuel delivery (source: Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association). If the fuel pump is unable to maintain that proper flow, drivers might also experience a sudden loss of power when driving.
Fuel tank noises anomalies (they may suggest multiple issues). Making a high pitched whine or buzzing sound usually louder the harder it works, a fuel pump that begins to fail is one of the easiest sounds it can make when failing. According to automotive expert Lisa Andrews, “If you ever hear anything weird coming from the fuel tank, it’s a must to have it evaluated.”
If you are dealing with fuel leaks around the fuel tank or lines, you have a real problem. The fuel leaks can reduce performance and may also become a safety hazard, says the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Also, a reduction of fuel economy (usually by say 10-20%) can point toward your fuel pump needing to be replaced as well.
If the vehicle displays a check engine light, this could also be an indication of a bad fuel pump. Since diagnostic trouble codes usually relate to the fuel system, be sure everything is examined well. The Motorist Assurance Program suggests that you test the pump to ascertain if it produces the right quantity of fuel using a gauge.
Lastly, if you have any of these issues, then its good to get your Fuel Pump checked. You may have these problems with your vehicle's fuel system but regular maintenance can catch them early and keep your vehicle on the road longer.