Fuel Pumps
The fuel pump delivers fuel from the tank to the engine at the pressure the injection system requires. Most modern vehicles use an electric pump mounted inside the fuel tank, cooled by the fuel around it.
What it does
An electric motor drives an impeller that draws fuel through a strainer and pushes it up the fuel line to the rail. Surrounding fuel cools and lubricates the motor, which is why running low on fuel shortens pump life.
Signs a fuel pump is failing
- Extended cranking before the engine starts
- Loss of power under load or on a climb
- Stalling that clears after the vehicle stands for a while
- A whine from the tank area that is louder than usual
- The engine cranking normally but not firing at all
When to replace them
Not scheduled. Replaced on failure. Life is shortened considerably by habitually running the tank near empty.
What to confirm before ordering
Have these ready and the counter can usually confirm the part in under a minute.
- Whether a pump alone or a complete module with sender and strainer is required
- Required pressure and flow rating for the application
- Engine code, since pressure differs between petrol and diesel and across variants
- That the fuel filter is replaced at the same time
Fuel Pumps by vehicle
Pick your vehicle for the years and engines covered, and what is specific to that application.
Fuel Pumps questions
What are the signs of a failing fuel pump?
Extended cranking before starting, hesitation or power loss under load, and stalling that clears once the vehicle has stood. A tank whine louder than normal often precedes all of them.
Does running the tank low damage the fuel pump?
Yes. The pump is cooled and lubricated by the fuel around it, so running persistently near empty makes it run hotter and wear faster. It is one of the most avoidable causes of pump failure.
Should the fuel filter be replaced with the pump?
Always. A restricted filter is frequently what killed the original pump, and fitting a new pump behind it loads the new unit from the first minute.