“It’s probably the fuel pump.” You often hear about the fuel pump “going” on a car. But did you know just how important of a car repair this can be? At All Around Auto Repair we care about your car as much as you do and want to help you keep it running at peak performance for as long as you own it.

A Clean Gas Tank Improves Engine Performance

Car Repair If you own your car long enough, the odds are good that at some point the fuel pump will need to be replaced. It’s not an inexpensive car repair, though not as expensive as having to replace your gas tank as well. That’s why it’s crucial that a car’s gas tank be cleaned when replacing the fuel pump.

The non-profit Car Care Council recommends thoroughly cleaning the gas tank every time the fuel pump is replaced. Taking this one simple step has great benefits.

  • It ensures maximum engine performance
  • Fuel efficiency is increased
  • Leaks can be detected, and the tank can be reconditioned if necessary
  • The straps and mounting can be checked for corrosion

How much action does your car’s gas tank see? In vehicles that get 20 mpg, about 5,000 gallons of gas will flow through the tank every 100,000 miles. And while a fuel pump catches some of the bad stuff, smaller contaminants can make their way past a filtering system.

Cleaning out old dirt, debris, rust, and other contaminants that have accumulated at the bottom of the tank protects your new fuel pump and helps your car or truck run more efficiently. Here are the steps a mechanic takes to properly clean a gas tank.

  1. Once the tank is removed, all fuel is drained into an approved container.
  2. Accumulated debris and contaminants are cleaned from the top of the tank, especially around the module or hanger assembly.
  3. The lock ring and module or hanger assembly is removed.
  4. The tank is flushed with water before installing the new module or hanger assembly.
  5. A soap and water solution is used to clean the inside of the fuel tank. Because of their internal baffling, this can be difficult to do on modern fuel tanks.
  6. Compressed air is circulated through the tank to thoroughly dry it out. It takes about 30 minutes for a tank to completely dry.

Your mechanic can then check the tank for signs of physical damage or rust, in which case it must be repaired or replaced.

The goal is to get your car’s gas tank as close to its original condition as possible. This ensures your new fuel pump will operate as efficiently as the original one did when your car rolled off the assembly line.

Learn Other Car Repair Tips

Everyone wants the best fuel efficiency their car can deliver. Cleaning the gas tank when replacing the fuel pump is a smart car repair for achieving that goal. Conveniently located in Windsor, All Around Auto Repair is Sonoma’s County most trusted source for car repair and regular maintenance.

We provide the car repair services you need to keep your vehicle running well any time of the year. Contact us online today to learn more, or call us at 707.837.0646 to schedule an appointment.

Vehicle inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you know if your car’s fuel pump needs replacing?

When your car’s fuel pump starts to fail, you might notice symptoms like sputtering, difficulty starting, or sudden stalling. Another tell-tale sign is when your engine loses power while driving uphill or under heavy load. If ignored, these issues could get worse and leave you stranded. Regular maintenance checks can catch these problems early, ensuring your car runs smoothly and efficiently.

2. Why is cleaning the gas tank important during fuel pump replacement?

Cleaning the gas tank when replacing a fuel pump is crucial for protecting the new pump and maximizing engine performance. Dirt, rust, and debris that accumulate over time can clog up your fuel system, reducing fuel efficiency and causing engine problems. By cleaning the tank, you remove contaminants that could damage your new pump, helping your vehicle run like new.

3. What are the benefits of fuel pump replacement?

Replacing your car’s fuel pump can drastically improve fuel efficiency and overall engine health. A malfunctioning fuel pump can lead to inconsistent fuel delivery, reducing the performance of your car. Once replaced, your engine will receive a consistent fuel supply, leading to better acceleration and smoother operation. Plus, a new fuel pump can help avoid future breakdowns and costly repairs.

4. How much does it cost to replace a fuel pump?

Fuel pump replacement costs vary depending on your car’s make and model, but on average, you can expect to pay between $400 to $800 for parts and labor. While it might seem pricey, investing in a new fuel pump is far cheaper than dealing with the consequences of engine failure or inefficient fuel usage. Remember, a well-maintained fuel system means fewer repairs down the road.

5. Can a dirty fuel tank cause fuel pump failure?

Yes, a dirty fuel tank is one of the leading causes of fuel pump failure. Debris, rust, and other contaminants that settle at the bottom of your tank can clog the pump, causing it to overwork and eventually break down. This is why it’s so important to clean your fuel tank when you replace the pump—it extends the life of the new part and ensures optimal engine performance.

6. How often should you replace your fuel pump?

A fuel pump typically lasts around 100,000 miles, but this can vary depending on your driving habits and the condition of your fuel system. If you notice your car struggling to start, sputtering, or losing power under load, it’s a good idea to have your fuel pump checked. Regular vehicle maintenance helps catch these issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

7. What is the connection between fuel pump and fuel efficiency?

A faulty fuel pump can severely reduce your car’s fuel efficiency because it disrupts the proper flow of fuel to the engine. If the pump isn’t working correctly, your car could be using more gas than necessary, costing you at the pump. Replacing the fuel pump ensures that your engine gets the fuel it needs to operate efficiently, saving you money on fuel in the long run.

Check Engine Maintenance

8. Can you drive with a bad fuel pump?

Technically, you might be able to drive with a failing fuel pump, but it’s risky. A bad fuel pump can cause your car to stall unexpectedly or fail to start altogether. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning fuel pump could lead to more significant damage to your engine, resulting in higher repair costs. It’s best to get it replaced as soon as possible to avoid being stranded on the road.

9. Is fuel pump replacement a DIY job, or should it be done by a professional?

While it might be tempting to save money by replacing the fuel pump yourself, this is a job best left to professionals. Fuel pump replacement involves working with your car’s fuel system, which can be dangerous due to the risk of gasoline leaks and fire hazards. A qualified mechanic will have the proper tools and expertise to safely and efficiently replace the pump, ensuring it operates correctly.

10. What can happen if you don’t replace a failing fuel pump?

Ignoring a failing fuel pump can lead to a complete breakdown, leaving you stranded and facing expensive towing and repair bills. Worse, if the pump fails while you’re driving, it could cause engine damage or lead to an accident. Replacing your fuel pump as soon as it shows signs of failure is the safest and most cost-effective option.