If you notice any of the common symptoms of fuel pump failure while you’re driving, you may need to have your fuel pump inspected and replaced. Symptoms of a Failing Fuel PumpĪlthough mechanical and electronic pumps fail for different reasons, the symptoms of failure are similar for both types of pumps. Any one of several different parts can malfunction and lead to fuel pump problems. Electronic pumps are typically linked to electronic control systems and contain multiple moving parts because of this increased complexity, these types of pumps are more prone to failure.

Most problems with mechanical pumps occur when the diaphragm is damaged in some way, throwing the pressure system off balance. Since mechanical pumps are driven directly by the motion of the engine and contain few moving parts, they tend to be reliable and relatively easy to diagnose and fix. Mechanical pumps are usually found in cars that use carburetors, and electronic pumps are usually used with fuel injection systems. Mechanical pumps run off of the motion of the engine a diaphragm mounted to the outside of the fuel tank expands and contracts, creating a low-pressure system that forces the fuel out of the tank and into the engine.Įlectronic pumps are typically located inside of the fuel tank and use electromagnetic motors to force fuel to the engine at high pressure. The fuel pump is a device that moves fuel from your tank to the engine, supplying the fuel at a constant pressure to ensure that your engine runs smoothly.ĭepending on the age of your vehicle, you may have either a mechanical or an electronic fuel pump, and, if you’re attentive, you can catch the symptoms of a failing fuel pump and have it repaired or replaced before it leaves you stranded on the side of the road. Your car’s engine needs a regular stream of fuel to keep it humming along.

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