You’re driving and suddenly your vehicle starts to sputter, your engine dies and your car won’t start! You have your vehicle towed to a repair shop and after a diagnosis the mechanic lets you know it was your fuel pump.
Why did your fuel pump fail?
It’s difficult to predict a failing fuel pump and there is not any recommended maintenance for fuel pumps. They are inside your fuel tank and they are impossible to get to without removing the whole tank. But there are some steps you can take to make your fuel pump last longer.
Most vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter on their gas line. This filters out dirt, dust, rust and other particles from your gas tank before they can reach your engine. Replacing a clogged fuel filter when recommended reduces your chances of breaking your fuel pump.
Some newer cars have their fuel filter inside the fuel tank so it can’t be changed, in that case we suggest not letting your fuel tank run too low. Running your tank too low can cause fuel starvation that puts excessive strain on the pump. A good rule of thumb is to not let the fuel level drop below ¼ tank before filling up. It’s also a good idea to use a higher quality gas with high levels of detergent. This helps prevent the buildup of varnish and gum along the fuel system.
A professional fuel system cleaning will clean fuel injectors and help remove carbon deposits from the valves and combustion chamber.
All these things improve fuel economy and increase performance. Ask one of our friendly Service Advisors today if a Fuel System Cleaning is right for your needs.
Safe driving from us here at Eureka Brake & Automotive!
(707) 443-2122
www.eurekabrake.com
Revised from Content Contributed by Napa Assistant