QuestionQUESTION: I have a 03 Pontiac Grand Am and i drove to school it then shut off on and won't start. The starter will turn but it sounds like it's not getting any fuel. I turn the key and listen for the pump and don't hear it. I think it may be the fuel pump but i would love an expert opinion.
ANSWER: Hi Bernard:
Did this car start and then stall out? Is there a security lamp on the dash flashing? If so then there is an issue with the passkey security system from the factory. If not then you may be right. On some of these cars the pump is VERY quiet you may need someone to listen by the fule filler door while you turn the key to the run position. if you still do not hear the pump it may be the issue. you can try tapping on the bottom of the gas tank with a rubber mallet while someone is cranking the car. Some times the jaring action from tapping "not beating and banging" will get the pump motor off a bad spot and allow it to run and let the car start. If that is the case then the pump needs to be replaced as well as the fuel filter No one ever changes them untill the pump quits running from trying to push the fuel through the plugged filter. good luck :)
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QUESTION: I tapped on the bottom of the fuel tank and the fuel pump started working and has been working all day, but the battery is possible dead, I have to boost it off when trying to crank it could it be possible that the battery is the cause of the fuel pump not working properly
ANSWER: No you have 2 different issues here. You more then likley put the battery over the edge by craking it over and over again trying to get it to start. I'm sure it was nearing the end of it's useful life anyway but you just helped it along. As for the pump Yup it needs one.
Don't forget to change the fuel filter as well.
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QUESTION: i'm having a tough time removing the fuel pump, i know you have to tap it and turn the clip but is there something i not doing, i can not get it out
AnswerYour doing it right a screwdriver and a hammer will tap tyhe ring around once you get it past the detent it will turn right around with no problem. Just getting it past the "locked detent" position is the trick. Same with putting it back on it will turn easy at first but the final little bit to get iot to lock it take a bit of effort. Just be careful not to slip with the screwdriver and damage the lock plate on the tank or the tank it's self. If you live in the rust belt like I do some penetrating oil on the ring may help a good produt to use is called PB blaster if you don't have that try some WD-40. Good luck :)
