Most used car owners are required to replace many parts of their automobiles, including the fuel pump. Though all parts will with time need replacing, an effort can be made to extend the life of a fuel pump, and the car in general.
The fuel pump is located inside or near the fuel tank, functioning to push gas from the tank to the injectors. It also is needed to create enough pressure so that the injectors are able to deliver adaquate fuel to the engine.
The first sign of fuel pump failure is overheating, though engine stopping is also a symptom. The engine may function for half an hour, cease after the pumps overheats, but start again after the system has cooled down.
A pump, just as any constantly running machine, wears down due to use and will need replacing as the brushes, busings, rollers or gears cease to function properly. Premature failure is often caused by contaminated fuel. If rust or sediment enters the pump, it can cause it to jam and overheat.
Occasionally, a pump will fail due to repeated fuel starvation. Fuel pump life can be extended by properly maintaining the automobile, which includes not allowing a car ´s gas tank to get completely empty, purchasing higher octane gasoline and replacing the fuel filter as recommended.
