
The service life of a fuel pump is typically 5 years. It mainly depends on mileage and fuel quality, and replacement is not necessary unless it affects engine performance. Below is expanded information on the causes of fuel pump failure: 1. Delayed refueling: Gasoline serves to cool and lubricate the fuel pump. Failing to refuel promptly after the fuel warning light comes on can reduce cooling and lubrication effectiveness, leading to fuel pump damage. 2. Insufficient fuel pressure: When the fuel level warning light in the dashboard illuminates, the excessively low fuel level prevents proper cooling and lubrication of the fuel pump motor, potentially causing overheating or even motor shutdown. 3. Long-term neglect of fuel filter replacement: Severe clogging in the fuel filter supply system forces the fuel pump to work harder, and prolonged operation under high load can also cause fuel pump damage. 4. Poor fuel quality: When fuel quality is substandard, impurities or foreign particles may accumulate in the fuel tank. While larger particles are filtered out by the screen, smaller particles get sucked into the fuel pump motor, accelerating wear and tear.

My old car’s fuel pump failed at just 100,000 km, and the mechanic blamed my driving habits—I always waited until the fuel gauge hit the red warning light before refueling. The fuel pump is located inside the tank and relies on fuel for cooling. When the fuel level is too low, it can overheat and burn out. Typically, its lifespan ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 km, but poor fuel quality with impurities or frequent engine starts and stops can shorten it to as little as 60,000 km. Replacing the pump cost me 800 RMB, and the process was a hassle—it required removing the fuel tank and cleaning the fuel lines. I’d advise everyone not to wait for the warning light; keeping the tank at least half full and regularly checking the fuel filter can extend the pump’s life to 200,000 km. The car also runs smoother, especially on long trips, giving much more peace of mind.

I often help people with car repairs. The average lifespan of a fuel pump is around 100,000 kilometers, but it depends on maintenance levels. Its core function is to pump fuel from the tank to the engine, and its design lifespan isn't long. If the filter screen is clogged or impurities interfere with the pressure, the pump may produce a buzzing sound or result in weak acceleration. A common cause of failure is the fuel tank being consistently at a low fuel level, leading to overheating and damage to the pump. When repairing, using diagnostic tools to measure fuel pressure reveals that many new car pumps fail prematurely due to poor-quality fuel from gas stations. Prevention involves regularly replacing the fuel filter and checking it every 20,000 kilometers—don't skimp on this small but crucial step. If the fuel pump fails, disassembling and repairing it is troublesome; beginners shouldn't attempt to dismantle it randomly. It's best to seek a professional mechanic to avoid making the situation worse.

After buying my car, I looked into fuel pumps. It's said they last an average of 80,000 to 120,000 kilometers. If your car jerks when refueling or has trouble starting, it might be a sign of pump aging. Don't let it run dry for long; just keep the tank from being empty. For example, my commuter car has been running in the city for five years and is still fine, but a friend's car had to replace the pump at 70,000 kilometers due to poor fuel quality. Regular maintenance like checking the fuel system can extend its lifespan, such as cleaning carbon deposits or using reliable additives. Don't believe quick fixes online; solid maintenance saves money. Replacing a failed pump can cost several hundred dollars.


