How to Check Your Fuel Pump

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If your engine doesn’t seem to be getting enough (or any) fuel, the problem can be caused by many reasons - a blocked fuel line or fuel filter or a faulty fuel pump, fuel injector, or carburetor. Before you allow anyone to talk you into replacing your fuel pump, check it yourself to see whether it really is the culprit.

Steps

1. 1
   Unhook the hose that carries the fuel from the fuel pump to the fuel injectors or carburetor at the end farthest from the pump, and stick it in a clean can.

   
   
2. 2
   With the emergency brake on, and the car in Park or Neutral, have someone use the ignition key to crank the engine while you see whether fuel comes out of the hose.
3. 3
   If it does, your fuel pump is doing its job, and the trouble is farther up the line.

   
   

Tips

• If your fuel pump does needs replacing, a rebuilt one is often as good as a new one, and a lot less expensive. If you’re feeling adventurous, some manufacturers supply rebuild kits. You can take your pump apart with a screwdriver and rebuilt it yourself, following directions on the kit. If that idea doesn’t enchant you, ask your service facility to locate and install a rebuilt fuel pump. It should be guaranteed at least three months.

Warnings

• Be sure to shut off the engine before the fuel overflows the can, and be careful not to spill the gasoline – it can ignite easily.

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