The days of changing a fuel pump in the driveway with just a wrench and a pair of pliers are long gone. Today’s fuel pumps are electric, and in most cases installed in the fuel tank. On some styles they have fuel level sensors and pressure regulators integrated into their construction. The first question that a lot of people ask is “Why do they put an electric motor in gas?” There are two main reasons for this, the first is that a small electrical motor generates heat and the gas medium it is immersed in cools it. The second is for noise suppression, the buzz of the motor would be quite loud if
Another maintenance item that will help fuel pump longevity, is regular replacement of the fuel filter. This is a replacement item on most vehicles. Some newer models have a fuel filter installed on the pump and module in the tank, making it a non-serviceable item. If your vehicle has a replaceable fuel filter, the schedule for installing a new one is every two years. This will help your fuel pump move fuel with less restriction, and keep the fuel pressure at a level required for your car to run at its peak performance requirements. Due to the cost of labour to remove a fuel tank, and the price of these integrated modules, it makes god sense to help your fuel pump last as long as possible. Use clean fuel, top the tank up, and avoid letting the gas tank get below a quarter on the gauge. Replace your fuel filter, if it’s applicable to your vehicle.
