What are the symptoms of a faulty fuel pump in a car?
3 Answers
When a car's fuel pump is damaged, the engine typically exhibits symptoms such as poor acceleration and abnormal noises. Below are detailed descriptions of car conditions when the fuel pump is faulty: 1. Poor Acceleration: There is a jerking sensation during rapid acceleration; the car is difficult to start, requiring prolonged turning of the key. 2. Abnormal Engine Noises: Unusual noises occur while driving; the engine shakes, and the engine warning light comes on. 3. Fueling Precautions: When refueling the car, do not wait until the fuel warning light comes on to add fuel, as this will shorten the fuel pump's lifespan. 4. The fuel pump is a critical component of the car's fuel supply system: If the fuel pump fails while driving, it can directly cause the vehicle to become inoperable, perform poorly, and exhibit symptoms like labored acceleration.
Last time my car's fuel pump broke down, it really freaked me out! The most obvious symptom was difficulty starting – turning the key made the engine roar but it wouldn't start, and it took four or five attempts to barely get it going, like it was gasping for air. Driving was also a struggle, with noticeably slower acceleration when stepping on the gas, especially uphill when the engine would shake, and the engine warning light on the dashboard suddenly flickered a few times. Later, the mechanic said these were classic signs of insufficient fuel supply from the pump – when fuel isn't delivered properly, the engine lacks oxygen, and in severe cases, it can stall directly on the highway. My advice: if you experience abnormal starting or intermittent power, don't push it – check the fuel pump wiring and filter immediately. In my case, it was a clogged filter that overworked the pump.
Before my brother's old car had its fuel pump fail, there was a strange noise—a sharp buzzing sound coming from under the rear seat, like nails scraping on metal. At first, we thought a stone had gotten into the fuel tank, but then the noise grew louder and was accompanied by vibrations. Once, while waiting at a red light, the car suddenly stalled on its own. After restarting, the engine RPM needle jumped erratically, and the car shook violently at idle. The repair shop found the fuel pressure was only 1.2 bar, when it should normally be 3 bar. The mechanic said the worn fuel pump caused insufficient fuel supply, which not only wastes fuel but can also damage the injectors. In severe cases, it could even lead to piston scuffing.
