What Happens When a Fuel Pump Stops Getting Power?

A crucial part of your car’s fuel system is the gasoline pump. Its main job is to provide the right amount and pressure of fuel to the engine from the tank. One of the most frequent causes of fuel pump failure is the fuel pump not receiving power, but there are other potential causes as well.

In this post, we will examine the typical causes of fuel pump power loss as well as solutions to the problem.

Fundamentals of Fuel Pumps

Let’s go over some fundamentals of the fuel pump’s operation before delving into the reasons why it could not be receiving electricity. The fuel pump is normally positioned in the gasoline tank and is driven by electricity. It works by applying pressure to a gasoline line that transports fuel from the tank to the engine. The fuel pump controls the pressure in accordance with the amount of pressure needed based on the demands of the engine.

Signs That a Fuel Pump Is Failing

Some common signs could be present if your fuel pump is not receiving power. They consist of:

• The vehicle won’t crank up.
• When driving, a vehicle stalls.
• When trying to accelerate, the engine sputters or hesitates.
• Power loss while driving.
• Even if the tank is full, the fuel indicator displays empty.

It is crucial to check your vehicle’s fuel system and identify the source of any issues if you experience any of these signs.

What Causes a Fuel Pump to Lose Power?

Many factors can prevent a gasoline pump from receiving electricity. These are the most typical explanations:

Burst Fuse

Your car’s fuel pump circuit is safeguarded by a fuse that can blow if it consumes too much current. Your car won’t start if the fuse blows because the fuel pump won’t get power.

Wiring Problems

A fuel pump may also not receive power due to wiring issues. The electrical current to the fuel pump might be disrupted by frayed wires, loose connections, or broken wiring harnesses.

Faulty Relay

A fuel pump may not get power due to a malfunctioning relay. When the ignition is turned on, the relay is in charge of turning on the fuel pump. Your car won’t start if the relay malfunctions, since it won’t supply power to the gasoline pump.

Fuel pump driver module failure

The voltage of the fuel pump is managed by a tiny microprocessor called a fuel pump driver module (FPDM). Your car won’t start if the FPDM malfunctions since it won’t supply power to the fuel pump.

Faulty Fuel Pump

Another frequent reason for power loss is a malfunctioning fuel pump. Wear and tear, blocked fuel filters, or contamination in the fuel system can all cause the fuel pump to malfunction. Your car won’t start if the fuel pump isn’t operating properly, since it won’t get power.

Ways to Solve Problems with a Decrease in Fuel Pump Power

These procedures can help you diagnose the issue if you think your fuel pump isn’t getting power:

Inspect the Fuse: The fuel pump fuse should be checked first. Find the fuse for the fuel pump in the fuse box of your car. Replace the fuse with a fresh one with the same amperage rating if it has blown.

Examine the Wiring: Examine the wiring that attaches to the fuel pump. Check the wiring harnesses for any frayed or loose connections or loose or frayed wires. If you discover any problems, fix them or replace the wiring as necessary.

Examine the Relay: Use a multimeter to examine the fuel pump relay. Replace the relay with a new one if it is broken.

Test the Fuel Pump Driver Module: Use a multimeter to test the fuel pump driver module. Replace the defective module with a new one.

Test the Fuel Pump: If none of the aforementioned fixes the issue, test the fuel pump directly. You can check the pressure when the key is turned on by connecting a gasoline pressure gauge to the fuel rail and doing so. If the pressure is abnormally low or nonexistent, it may be necessary to replace the fuel pump.

FAQs

What is the lifespan of a gasoline pump?

Depending on how well you take care of it, a gasoline pump can last as long as 100,000 miles.

How can I tell if my fuel pump needs replacement?

Engine stalling, a loss of power, and a fuel gauge that reads empty even if the tank is full are typical symptoms of a failed fuel pump.

Can I use my vehicle with a damaged gasoline pump?

No, you shouldn’t operate your vehicle with a malfunctioning gasoline pump because it could harm your engine and leave you stranded.

How much does a fuel pump replacement cost?

Depending on the type and model of your car and the mechanic’s hourly labor rates, replacing a gasoline pump can cost different amounts. It often ranges from $300 to $1000.

How frequently should a fuel pump be changed?

Every 100,000 miles or as necessary based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, you should replace your fuel pump.

Conclusion

Understanding the typical causes and applying the troubleshooting techniques will help you resolve the annoying problem of a fuel pump that won’t get power and get your car back on the road. No matter what the issue is—a blown fuse, a bad relay, a broken fuel pump driver module, etc.—proper diagnosis and repair can guarantee that your car’s fuel system is operating as it should.