You're driving down the road and press on the gas, the car seems to want to go but just doesn't seem to be developing the power necessary. Or, even worse, you get up one morning to go to work and your car doesn't start. The engine turns over and over but just won't cough even once.

There can be many causes for these types of problems but one common cause is that the engine just isn't getting enough, or even any, fuel. Fuel delivery problems can be as simple as a clogged fuel filter. Or, it could be that your fuel pump has failed. The only way to tell for sure is to do some testing and determine where the issue is.

Troubleshooting and replacing your electric fuel pump can range from very easy to quite difficult and time consuming, depending on where the pump is located. One some vehicles the fuel pump is attached to the frame or is in the engine compartment. In this instance it is almost as easy as changing the fuel filter or the oil. On many vehicles, however, the fuel pump is inside the fuel tank; in this case replacement can be very difficult.

One of the best tools you can have for figuring out what is wrong with your fuel system, and how difficult it will be to do the job, is a service manual for your specific vehicle. If you're car isn't an uncommon model most auto parts stores will stock manuals. The two most common publishers in the US for the do-it-yourself market are Chilton and Haynes. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, and different titles from each may or may not include things like full electrical diagrams, but either is generally adequate for most DIY tasks.

The first step in troubleshooting fuel delivery problems is to see if you're getting any fuel to the fuel filter. To help avoid sparks lighting any spilled gasoline on fire you should remove the negative battery cable. After you've done that you can locate the fuel filter and remove the inlet line. You should have a rag and/or container to catch any spilled fuel as the fuel system may be pressurized. When you've disconnected the inlet line and cleaned up any spilled fuel, place the fuel line you've disconnected into a container and reconnect the battery cable. Next you, or ideally an assistant, should turn on the ignition switch which would energize the fuel pump.

If no fuel comes out of the line it is fairly obvious that there is a problem with the fuel pump system. But, don't rush to replacement just yet. There are some more checks to do.

If

• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to replace an electric fuel pump?
We want to hear your view. Write now!