The fuel pump gets worn out, it might get damaged, these are common reasons that can lead to fuel pump failure after refilling for a number of times. Because a fuel pump works by pushing pressurized fuel from a tank to the engine, they wear down over time during such continuous use. A study conducted by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) found that nearly 20% of fuel pump failures are associated with overheating due to ineffective movement of fuel within the tank, which could be aggravated by constant filling of the tank after refueling.
One frequent culprit is debris or contaminants getting sucked in with every tank of gas. Although the fuel systems of the modern day feature filters to safeguard the pump, dirt, rust and various other contaminants can enter the tank. This is particularly true if the gas station employs low-quality fuel or possesses older tanks. Gasoline may have as much as 0.01 percent of water and other impurities in it, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Energy, and that can over time clog the filter in the fuel pump or damage its internal parts. This can lead to the fuel pump having a more difficult time drawing fuel, increasing heat and risk of failure.
The other such is how much fuel is inside the tank. During refueling, and especially when the tank drops to a quarter tank or low, the fuel pump may run dry or may have to work overly hard. Gas in the tank usually cools and lubricates fuel pumps. Running low on fuel can also cause the pump to overheat, shortening its life. And a gas pump running constantly on low fuel can fail as much as 40 percent sooner than one running on top off gas levels, according tothe Car Care Council.
Its durability also depends on the pump’s design and the age of the vehicle. Most vehicles with high-mileage engines will experience a pump failure; and the reason being is that the pump has seen numerous cycles of refueling and it’s already had quite a workout when you get to the end of the pump life cycle. According to research conducted by the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA), the average longevity of a fuel pump is 100,000 miles, but this figure can vary depending on the type of vehicle and fuel quality.
Another reason why the fuel pump fails after multiple refills could be due to a dirty fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator. The fuel filter should trap contaminants before they get to the pump, but as the filter gets worn over time, it can clog, making the pump work harder, which can lead to it failing altogether. And the fuel pressure regulator, which keeps fuel pressure in check, can also fail, causing critical delivery issues and pump out workload.
The other, in rare cases, is where the fuel pump fails in use, either from incorrect installation or a fault in the electrical system. Pump Failure Caused by Loose or Corroded Electrical Connections — Loose or corroded electrical connections to the pump may result in inconsistent power supply to the pump, causing erratic performance and ultimate failure. According to the Automotive Service Association (ASA), electrical problems account for roughly 10% of all contributing fuel pump failures.
The most prominent indication that the fuel pump is compromised after a few refuels is difficulty getting the engine fired, sputtering under acceleration, or an unexpected loss of power. If you notice these symptoms, have the fuel pump diagnosed and replaced before it causes further engine damage. The cost of replacing a faulty fuel pump can range from $400 to $1,200, depending on which make and model you’re driving, according to AAA data.
If you have reason to believe that your fuel pump is bad after several fillups, it is importance to get the issue solved as soon as possible. Periodic maintenance, use of quality fuel, and timely fuel tank filling can keep your fuel pump working for a long time. To learn more about High Quality Fuel Pumps, check out Fuel Pump.