QuestionDear Sir,
I have a 96 DeVille with close to 140k miles.
I think My fuel pump died Yesterday, car would not start, spark was on the plug, fuel pump fuse was fine and the fuel pump relay was tested with a 9V battery – was also fine. I’m unable to hear the fuel pump turning on for 2 seconds when I turn the key, there is no fuel in the lines going from one injector to the next one (pressure relief valve was open while cranking the ignition but no fuel was present). The car drove fine for 30 miles, after being parked overnight it didn’t start since.
My first question: is there any other possibilities than a fuel pump? Could a totally dirty fuel filter could cause the fuel pump not to turn on, as a form of protection from burning?? Why did it broke while being parked and not during a trip (like my water pump did last year)
My second question is what kind of preventive maintenance do You recommend for a 96’Deville with 140miles on the odometer? I would really like to avoid unpleasant surprises like this one, or the one I had with the water pump in the past, This is what was done since I bought the car (3years ago with 87k):
– transmission is original and it was recently serviced (oil was changed)
-suspension is original, except the stabilizer bar which broke, it is bouncy but right now I cannot afford a new struts/shocks, what else I should worry about when it comes to suspension?
-brake pads and rotors are replaced regularly, master cylinder(booster) was also replaced
-power stering pump was replaced
-every plastic fuel line in the engine compartment was replaced with a typical rubber fuel line due to leaks
-starter was replaced
I should also add that I live in Illinois and i don't have a garage so the car is experiencing 0 deg. F. temperatures in the winter.
What do You suggest I should worry about? It would be nice to know what else can brake at this mileage so I can replace it before it brakes and safe myself some stress and money
Thank You in advance for Your help
Karol
AnswerHi Karol,
Unfortuneately a fuel pump can go out at anytime especially if it is still the original pump. Sometimes it won't start after filling up because of the shock of cold gas on a warm or hot pump. A couple things to try would be to replace the fuel pump relay and see if the pump starts to work. Have someone tap on the bottom of the gastank while another person cranks the engine. Hitting the tank might jar the pump so you can drive it to your mechanic but don't be fooled into thinking it will continue to run very long. In 30 minuits it might quit again or until the next time the key is turned off and it might not start. If you hear the pump running but suspect weak fuel pressure then replaceing the filter might help. Otherwise probably not. It does need to be changed with the new fuel pump.
As for your second question at 140K anything can start to break depending on how the car was mantained. I would look in the owners manual and see what they recommend. Most likely LOF, transmission fluid flush, cooling system flush, tuneup if original wires, change the cooling system hoses if original. If you have the northstar engine then if can develope oil leaks and head gasket problems. I would have your mechanic print out a sheet of recommended services and then you can look them over and see what has been done and what needs to be done. He can also give the car a safety inspection and let you know what repairs are needed. Also going to the library or news stand and getting a copy of the consumer reports used car guide would give insight into what other owners are seeing as problems. It should go back that far.
Hopefully I have been of some help. Bill
