A faulty fuel pump can cause your engine to stall by interrupting the constant fuel delivery needed for combustion. The fuel pump, working in a pressurized environment of 40 to 65 PSI, keeps the perfect fuel-to-air ratio in the engine for proper functioning. When the pump goes bad, it usually supplies insufficient or irregular fuel, thus causing the engine to stall, especially when accelerating or under load.
Fuel pump failure is generally due to internal wear, electrical problems, or blockages caused by debris. A study done in 2022 by Automotive Diagnostics Weekly estimated that 25% of vehicle stall events were directly related to faulty fuel pumps. For the affected vehicles, stalling usually occurred under high-demand conditions, such as hill climbs or highway driving, where fuel delivery needs to be constant.
One of the notable recalls in 2020 included over 1.2 million vehicles by a major manufacturer due to complaints of stalling, especially when the vehicles’ speed exceeded 50 mph. Drivers described power loss suddenly, many times needing to restart the vehicle multiple times before it could go again. Technicians pinpointed the problem to the pumps not delivering more than 70% of required volume, which seriously affects the reliability of the engine.
Testing fuel pressure with a gauge confirms problems associated with the pump. Readings that are lower than what the manufacturer specifies show the pump or some of its parts should be replaced. Other symptoms often related to stalling, like sputtering, hesitation upon acceleration, and poor start, usually indicate a failing pump.
Michael Johnson, a motor expert, elaborated, “A failing fuel pump compromises the performance of the engine and safety. Early resolution prevents further major damage to the fuel system.” His remark has highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and repair of pump failure.
Replacing a faulty fuel pump generally costs anywhere from $300 to $900, depending on the vehicle. Regular maintenance, including replacing fuel filters every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, helps avoid blockages that can put added stress on the pump. Reliable replacements, such as those from Fuel Pump, ensure consistent fuel delivery and reduce the risk of stalling, providing peace of mind and restoring optimal engine performance.