Even though it is advisable to completely replace your fuel pump, it is okay to know how to fix a fuel pump without replacing it. While driving, you might notice that your car fails to accelerate properly regardless of your efforts. This and many more could be the reason you have to fix your fuel pump, especially when replacing it is not an option.
One of the common reasons that you have to do something about your fuel pump is when starting your car is difficult. At some point, the wheels can be jerky, which still points to a bad fuel pump.
This problem can be annoying, and you might not be ready, or just not in that position when you can have it replaced, in which case you will attempt to fix it. Unfortunately, fixing a bad fuel pump can only be a temporary solution that gets your fuel pump working. It will not last long, so you must ensure a replacement fuel pump as soon as possible.
What does your car fuel pump do?
The engine of your vehicle uses a mixture of gas and air to run. The role of the fuel pump is now to draw gasoline from the tank to the carburetor. The gasoline is mixed with air before it moves to the engine.
Can the fuel pump be repaired?
Yes, the fuel pump can be repaired. However, it is advisable to replace your fuel pump with the help of an auto mechanic. If you have the know-how and tools, you can always replace them instead of visiting the service center. A repaired fuel pump will not last, so you must replace your fuel pump if you manage to get your car to a different location.
Signs that Your Fuel Pump is Bad
Before you meander with your fuel pump, you want to be sure that the fault is coming from it. Below are some of the common signs that your fuel pump may be bad before you fix it:
- When you increase your vehicle speed, it sputters and returns back to normal.
- Your car fails to perform optimally when you climb a hill or have a heavy load in the cargo.
- The car will suddenly pick up and surge forward even when you are driving at a usual speed.
- When your car temperature rises, the car stalls.
- You begin to hear a strange noise from the fuel pump.
- Your gas mileage gets poorer.
- The car requires several attempts to starts.
Regarding poor mileage, you can always follow these tips to get better mileage in a petrol vehicle.
Fixing a Fuel Pump Temporarily
Since it is possible to fix your fuel pump without replacing it, how can you do it?
Get Your Car Ready
The first thing you want to do is to get your car ready. First, check whether there is enough fuel in the tank or not. You can look at the fuel gauge to determine the amount of fuel in the car. You also want to inspect your fuel pressure regulator and fuel filter to ensure that they are fully functional before you proceed with fixing the fuel pump.
Attach the Gauge to Your Engine
Most auto mechanics will simply attach a gauge to your car engine when working to fix your bad fuel pump. Meanwhile, if you aspire to become an auto mechanic with no experience, refer to our short guide.
The simple step to follow is to attach the fuel pressure gauge to the engine of your car. If the engine will not start, this will cause it to start even with the bad fuel pump.
Apply External Pressure
You can apply pressure to get your bad fuel pump to start the car. The idea is to ensure to maintain the pressure needed which the bad fuel pump is unable to produce. It tweaks the engine and causes it to fire. You can also add external pressure to the car if it does not start.
Heat Your Car Engine
You also want to maintain the heat in the engine of your vehicle. Since the fuel pump is bad, when it gets cold, it requires heat to power the engine again. When you succeed in heating the car engine, you would be enhancing the car performance temporarily with the fixed fuel pump.
How to Fix a Fuel Pump Without Replacing It
- Check the fuel pressure regulator for a vacuum line connecting it. Remove the line, and if you find gasoline, then the regulator failed.
- Inspect the regulator and reconnect the vacuum line.
- Attach the hose of the fuel pressure gauge. First, remove the protective cap.
- Unpack the test gauge for the fuel pressure if you have not already.
- Connect the gauge with the appropriate adapter and test the port by fixing the line. If you cannot find the fuel test port, get a fuel filter adapter to use as the fuel test port.
- Attach the gauge and turn on the car ignition.
- To check if the pressure regulator is working, release the throttle quickly after starting the engine. The pressure should increase by 5 PSI from when it dropped to 52 PSI after you started the engine. If you do not receive any pressure after inspecting the vacuum line, the pressure regulator is bad.
- While the engine is on, the fuel system operates at full capacity, and the PSI will drop but should stay at 52.
- If you idle the car or load it, but you get low fuel pressure, is a sign of a failed pump or a blockage in the fuel filter.
- After the test and inspection, suck the fuel from the fuel port coming from the hose with woolen clothe or a towel. Untie the hose for sucked fuel to escape. If the fuel keeps leaking, place the woolen piece or towel again to suck more.
- Reinstall the dust cap and clean with the towel. Finally, look out for leakage.
FAQs
Can you fix a fuel pump by yourself?
Yes, you can fix a fuel pump by yourself. However, installing a fuel pump can be difficult, especially if your fuel tank is filled up at the time. You also want to be careful because you are dealing with gasoline which is flammable. While fixing a bad fuel pump by yourself without the experience, ensure necessary precautions are in place, including a fire extinguisher in the event of a fire. Make sure to keep away any item that can ignite a fire when working with your fuel pump.
Is using a bad fuel pump without replacing it bad for your car?
Yes, using a bad fuel pump without replacing it is bad for your car. Instead of driving with a bad fuel pump, you can have an expert attempt a temporary fix. A bad fuel pump can cause recurring engine failures, decrease vehicle mileage, power loss, engine sputtering, unusual rise in the car temperature, and sudden speed surge when driving at a usual speed.
Final Thoughts
This guide attempted to show you how to fix a fuel pump without replacing it but the truth remains that it can only be a temporary fix. You need a replacement fuel pump to drive optimally and stop your car speed from surging suddenly while you drive.
Some cars use non-rebuildable electric fuel pumps, so when you try to unassemble and repair them, you could be doing more damage to the fuel pump. Also, ensure that your fuel pump is getting power before you try to fix it without replacing it.
Bernard is the lead driver and force behind his Big Dog Garage Race Team. He is the General Manager and Chief Mechanic of Jay Leno’s Garage. Bernard and his crew of seven are responsible for all repairs, restoration and fabrication of Jay’s incredible automobile and motorcycle collection.
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