A Step-By-Step Guide For Replacing Your Car’s Fuel Pump
Your car’s fuel pump is responsible for creating sufficient pressure to push gasoline from the gas tank to the engine. When it fails, or begins to malfunction, your engine may not receive the fuel it needs to move your car. If the pump fails gradually, you’ll notice hesitation when pressing down on the accelerator. This problem will worsen over time. If the component fails suddenly, your car will likely refuse to move.
A quick note: gasoline travels through a fuel filter, and is sprayed by fuel injectors through the intake valves of the engine’s cylinders. Before replacing a fuel pump that seems to have failed, make sure these other parts are not causing the problem. Also, if the pump needs to be replaced, it’s a good idea to replace the filter at the same time.
Below, we’ll present a simple guide to changing your fuel pump. With a few tools, an hour of spare time, and a little patience, you can replace the auto parts without a mechanic’s help.
Step 1: Gather The Proper Tools
You’ll need a set of socket wrenches, a couple of screwdrivers (a flat head and Phillips), and of course, a new pump. You should also have a small fire extinguisher nearby since gas is highly flammable. If you take proper precautions – for example, you avoid smoking while replacing the part – you won’t need to use the fire extinguisher. But have one nearby just in case.
Step 2: Eliminate The Pressure In The Fuel Line
Recall that your fuel pump generates pressure that pushes gas to your engine. After you shut your engine off, this pressure still exists in the line. If you open the line without eliminating it, you may be sprayed with gas.
The pressure is controlled by a fuse. Locate the right fuse (find a fuse diagram online for your make and model), and start your car. While your engine is idling, remove the fuse from its slot. The pressure in the fuel line will quickly dissipate until your engine stalls. At that point, the pressure has been released.
Step 3: Unfasten The Failed Pump
Depending on your vehicle, you’ll find the fuel pump inside the gas tank, or near it. If the latter case is true, you’ll notice the part is held in place by bolts. Unfasten them, and lower the pump.
If your car is equipped with fuel injection, the component is likely installed inside the tank. If this is the case, check the trunk and rear seat of your car for a removable panel through which you can access it. If you cannot find an access point, you’ll need to lift your car, and remove (i.e. lower) the tank. You’ll then need to drain it and open it before removing the failed fuel pump.
Step 4: Detach The Lines
The pump is attached directly to the fuel line. If the component was inside the gas tank, there will be a single hose connected to it. Take it off. If the pump was outside the tank, you’ll see two hoses. Gasoline moves into the component through one, and outward through the other. Take both of them off.
One side note: even though you removed the pressure from the fuel line (in step 2), there will likely be residual gas present in the hoses. Have a small container ready to catch it.
Step 5: Detach The Wires
In addition to the fuel line (or lines), you’ll see a couple of wires connected to the pump. These wires send a current to the part, allowing it to work. Remove both of them. With all connections detached, set the failed fuel pump aside. Follow the steps in reverse to install the replacement.
A mechanic may charge over $400 (including parts and labor) to replace a failed fuel pump. If you have a little time and patience, order the part online, install it on your own, and save the money.
I never knew changing a fuel pump was the sort of job we could do ourselves. This is very useful information to know and could save a big chunk of cash if ever I need to change my fuel pump in the future. Thanks.