What Happens When Your Fuel Pump Goes Out While Driving – Your car’s fuel pump is a critical component of the vehicle’s fuel system. It is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine, ensuring that the engine receives the proper amount of fuel to operate efficiently.
If the fuel pump fails while driving, it can lead to dangerous situations that can put you and your passengers at risk. In this article, we will discuss the signs of a failing fuel pump, the effects of a failed fuel pump while driving, and what to do if your fuel pump fails while driving.
Symptoms of A Failing Fuel Pump
A failing fuel pump can present several symptoms that can help you identify the issue before it becomes a more serious problem.
Here are the most common signs of a failing fuel pump:
Difficulty Starting the Engine
If your car is having trouble starting or is taking longer than usual to start, it may be a sign of a failing fuel pump.
When the fuel pump is failing, it may not be able to deliver enough fuel to the engine, which can make it difficult to start the car.
Engine Misfires and Sputtering
If your engine is misfiring or sputtering while driving, it can be a sign of a failing fuel pump. A failing fuel pump can cause a lack of fuel pressure, which can result in the engine misfiring or sputtering.
Loss of Power While Driving
If you are driving and suddenly feel a loss of power, it may be a sign of a failing fuel pump. A failing fuel pump can cause a lack of fuel pressure, which can result in a loss of power while driving.
Whining Noise From the Fuel Tank Area
If you hear a high-pitched whining noise coming from the fuel tank area, it may be a sign of a failing fuel pump.
A failing fuel pump can cause the fuel to flow irregularly, which can create a whining noise.
Low Fuel Pressure Warning Light on the Dashboard
If the low fuel pressure warning light on the dashboard comes on, it may be a sign of a failing fuel pump.
The low fuel pressure warning light indicates that the fuel pump is not delivering enough fuel pressure to the engine, which can cause a variety of issues.
Effects of A Failed Fuel Pump While Driving
A failed fuel pump can have serious consequences while driving. Here are some of the effects of a failed fuel pump while driving:
Engine stalling or shutting off while driving
If your fuel pump fails while driving, it can cause the engine to stall or shut off. This can be dangerous if it happens in the middle of the road or on a busy highway.
Loss of power steering and brakes
When the engine stalls or shuts off, it can also result in a loss of power steering and brakes. This can make it difficult to control the car and avoid accidents.
Difficulty restarting the engine
If the fuel pump fails while driving and the engine stalls or shuts off, it may be difficult to restart the engine.
This can be especially problematic if you are in a dangerous location.
Risks of being stranded in a dangerous location
If your fuel pump fails while driving and you are unable to restart the engine, you may be stranded in a dangerous location.
This can put you and your passengers at risk of being involved in an accident or being exposed to other hazards.
What to Do if Your Fuel Pump Fails While Driving
If your fuel pump fails while driving, it is important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety.
Here are some things you should do if your fuel pump fails while driving:
Remain calm and try to safely pull over to the side of the road
If your engine stalls or shuts off while driving, it is important to remain calm and try to safely pull over to the side of the road.
If you are on a busy highway, try to make your way to the nearest exit or a safe location off the road.
Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers
Once you have safely pulled over to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of your presence. This can help prevent accidents and ensure your safety while you wait for assistance.
Attempt to restart the engine
If your fuel pump fails while driving, try to restart the engine. If the engine starts, you may be able to drive to a nearby service station or mechanic.
However, if the engine does not start, do not continue to attempt to restart it as this can cause further damage to the engine.
If unable to restart, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck
If you are unable to restart the engine, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck. Explain the situation and your location to the operator, and wait for help to arrive.
Do not attempt to fix the fuel pump yourself, as this can be dangerous and may cause further damage to the car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a failing fuel pump can be a serious issue that can cause dangerous situations while driving. It is important to identify the signs of a failing fuel pump and take action to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
If your fuel pump fails while driving, remain calm, pull over to the side of the road, and call for assistance. By taking the necessary steps, you can ensure your safety and prevent accidents on the road.
Regular vehicle maintenance and inspection can help identify potential issues before they become more serious problems, and it is important to take any signs of a failing fuel pump seriously and seek professional assistance as soon as possible.