Fuel Delivery System Problems:
* Empty Tank: The most obvious reason! Check your fuel gauge.
* Fuel Pump Failure: The pump moves fuel from the tank to the engine. A faulty pump can be weak, intermittent, or completely dead.
* Clogged Fuel Filter: The filter prevents debris from reaching the engine. A clogged filter restricts fuel flow.
* Bad Fuel Injectors: These spray fuel into the engine's cylinders. Clogged, leaking, or faulty injectors prevent proper fuel delivery.
* Fuel Pressure Regulator Issues: This regulates the pressure of fuel in the system. A faulty regulator can cause low or inconsistent fuel pressure.
* Fuel Lines/Hoses: Cracks, leaks, or kinks in the fuel lines can interrupt fuel flow.
* Fuel Tank Issues: A damaged fuel tank or a problem with the fuel tank sending unit (which tells the gauge how much fuel is left) could affect fuel delivery.
* Blocked Fuel Cap: A completely blocked or improperly sealed gas cap can prevent proper fuel tank venting, leading to fuel starvation.
Engine Problems (Less Likely to Completely Prevent Fuel Flow, but can cause symptoms similar to fuel delivery issues):
* Crankshaft Position Sensor/Cam Sensor Issues: These sensors tell the engine's computer when to inject fuel. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to no fuel injection.
* Mass Airflow Sensor Problems: This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. A faulty sensor can lead to improper fuel/air mixture calculation, potentially resulting in a lack of fuel delivery (though often more likely to cause rough running or stalling rather than a complete lack of fuel).
* Computer Problems (ECU): The engine control unit (ECU) manages fuel injection. A faulty ECU can cause various issues, including no fuel delivery.
Other Possibilities:
* Immobilizer System: Some cars have anti-theft systems that prevent the engine from starting if the correct key isn't used.
* Electrical Problems: Issues with the car's electrical system, such as a blown fuse related to the fuel pump, can interrupt fuel delivery.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Check the fuel gauge: Is the tank truly empty?
2. Listen for the fuel pump: Turn the ignition key to the "on" position (but don't start the engine). You should hear a brief humming sound from the fuel pump (usually located near the fuel tank). If you don't, the pump may be faulty.
3. Check for error codes: Many modern cars have onboard diagnostic (OBD) systems that can provide diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). A scan tool can retrieve these codes, which can pinpoint the problem.
If you're not comfortable working on your car yourself, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Attempting to fix fuel system issues without proper knowledge can be dangerous due to the flammability of gasoline.
