The fuel pump in a car serves as a device to pump fuel from the car's tank to the engine's combustion chamber.

Therefore, the condition of this component must always be maintained to avoid disrupting engine performance. Below, we will explain the function and signs of fuel pump damage that you need to be aware of, along with how to address them.

Function of the Fuel Pump

As previously explained, the main function of the fuel pump is to pump fuel from the car's tank to the engine's combustion chamber. However, you should know that each type of vehicle has a different pump. 

For cars that use carburetors, the fuel pump functions to pump fuel from the tank to the carburetor. Meanwhile, for cars that use injection engines, the fuel pump functions to pump fuel from the tank to the car's injector system.

Read Also: Definition and Function of the Feed Pump in Diesel Engines

Signs of Damage to the Fuel Pump

Here are the signs you need to know when the fuel pump has issues or is damaged. 

1. Difficulty starting the car engine

When the fuel pump is damaged or has issues, its performance will be disrupted. The fuel pump will not be able to pump fuel properly and cannot supply fuel according to the needs of the engine's combustion chamber. As a result, the fuel line (full line) of the car may be empty. This can cause the car engine to be difficult to start. 

2. The car's speed is stuttering

Another sign of a problematic fuel pump can be indicated by the car stuttering while driving. This occurs because the fuel pump is too dirty, causing a blockage.

3. Check engine light blinking

Another sign of damage can be indicated by the blinking of the check engine light (injection indicator light).

4. Fuel pump fuse is burnt

Blockage of the fuel pump by dirt can cause damage to the fuel pump fuse. The performance of the fuse will become heavier, causing this component to burn out.

Read Also: How to Know if the Fuel Pump is Damaged and Tips for Repairing It

5. Exhaust smoke has a strong fuel smell

The emergence of a strong fuel smell when smoke comes out of the exhaust is a sign of suboptimal engine combustion. This occurs because the fuel pump cannot supply fuel to the engine's combustion chamber effectively. 

How to Address a Damaged Fuel Pump

Here are some ways you can do to address a damaged fuel pump or one that has issues. 

1. Replace the fuel pump fuse

 Replace the burnt fuel pump fuse with a new one.

2. Remove the fuel pump relay

Remove the fuel pump relay from its socket to check the relay terminal resistance. You can check the resistance at terminal 3 and terminal 5 of the relay. The standard inspection result should be 10 Ohms or more.

Then check both terminals again and add one power source. Add this power to terminals 1 and 2 until the result is less than 1 Ohm.

3. Check the fuel pump wiring harness

Next, you can check the fuel pump wiring harness for any electrical short circuits.

4. Check the fuel pump resistance

Next, you can check the fuel pump resistance by disconnecting the fuel pump terminal. Ensure the standard inspection result for resistance at terminals 3 and 4 reaches 0.2-0.3 Ohms at 20 degrees Celsius. If the result does not meet the standard, the fuel pump motor must be replaced immediately.

In addition to the above methods, you can have your car serviced regularly at the nearest Daihatsu dealer.