The fuel pump is one of the most important components of your vehicle, it is the key part of the fuel system in the engine. A fuel pump transfers gasoline into your vehicle’s fuel tank to ultimately power your vehicle. So, no doubt keeping it in notch conditions can prove to be extremely important to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
You can identify an underperforming fuel pump easily. The vehicle will have trouble starting, while constantly dying out. If you come across this situation, you can test for fuel pump failure by spotting your car’s fuel pressure test port and cranking the engine. If the pressure isn’t there, you might be facing a failed fuel pump.
How to identify a failing Fuel Pump
Other than the vehicle having trouble while starting up, there are several signs you can look for to identify a dying fuel pump. These can be taken into notice while your car is running. In case you identify any of the following signs, we suggest you run your vehicle to the nearest retailer and get it checked.
- If you can hear your fuel tank making cranky noises
- If your vehicle has trouble starting up
- If your engine is sputtering at high speeds
- The vehicle feels underpowered while going on a steep path
- Experiencing random surges when pressing the gas pedal
All these symptoms can point toward a failing fuel pump. If more than one of these factors is observed, there is a high probability of your fuel pump failing.
What Happens During a Fuel Pump Replacement?
To access the fuel pump for repair or replacement, the fuel tank needs to be taken out. The fuel tank is often located near the rear seat, which will need to be taken out to access the tank. This process might even require trimming mats and removing other parts.
The hoses will need to be opened to get to the fuel pump and soon as the mechanic is done with his work, they will need to be closed again.
Once the fuel pump is installed or repaired, the reverse process will begin from tightening the loosened screws and hoses to reinstalling the fuel tank and getting the rear seat back in its fixed spot.
Since getting to the fuel pump requires getting through a lot of other components, it is not the fuel pump replacement that could cost you a lot, but the labor costs.
Does the Warranty Cover the Fuel Pump?
Now you will probably be wondering if a dead fuel pump will be covered under warranty. We have good news for you, whether you’re under the manufactures warranty or extended warranty.
Your manufacturer’s warranty and extended warranty generally have you covered for the fuel pump under fuel system coverage. The fuel pump is a critical part and usually does not get damaged by wear and tears that will call for replacement on your hand. For most 3rd party warranty providers, you can expect to be covered for your fuel pump.
Generally, fuel pumps should be covered by your extended auto warranty. This can back you up on hefty bills that can exceed 1000 dollars. Once your manufactures warranty expires, we suggest you get your vehicle the much-needed extended warranty. Under warranty, you can be saved from hefty labor and replacement costs.
How Much Does Fuel Pump Replacement Cost?
The cost of a fuel pump is not as much as the cost that goes into labor and repair. A fuel pump replacement is not something you can have done at home, as it is one of the most vital components of your vehicle, hence getting it done by a professional is essential. The labor costs for fuel pump repairment is high as to get through to the pump, the fuel tank will have to remove. This means that major components will be needed to be set open and apart for the replacement or repairment to happen.
Fuel Pump costs cannot be specified as they vary from vehicle to vehicle and model to model. Different warranties will also have their set budgets depending on the vehicle you have.
To give you a rough estimate, we will go over the fuel pump replacement costs for some vehicle models. Once again, these are not set prices and can vary between different warranty providers. A fuel pump replacement can cost you between $220 – $1050, depending on your vehicle, age, and the warranty you’re under.
| Car Models | Total Estimated Costs |
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E320 | $280 – $350 |
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz E320 | $530 – $650 |
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 | $460 – $550 |
| 1995 Volkswagen Eurovan | $450 – $570 |
| 2004 Volkswagen R32 | $550 – $600 |
| 2008 Volkswagen Eos | $350 – $390 |
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta City | $400- $450 |
| 2012 Nissan Juke | $900 – $960 |
How can I Protect My Fuel Pump?
Here are some tips to make your fuel pump durable and have it avoid going through failure
Reduce fuel Pump Stress: Avoid driving around with low gas regularly. Low gas can put stress on the fuel pump, which can result in underperformance over time.
Pure Gasoline: Make sure your gasoline is free of impurities as it can lead to wear and tears over time.
Keep Gas Tank Clean: Avoid having dust and debris around your fuel pump and fuel tank. This dust and debris can lead to filter blockage, which can lead to fuel pump failure.
Conclusion
The best choice you can make for your fuel pump coverage, and to avoid paying hefty bills is to always keep your vehicle under warranty. Whether it is the manufactures warranty or auto extended warranty, both will have your fuel pump covered, bringing down the high costs that come with fuel pump replacements while also protecting your vehicle.
