Starting Issues:
* Difficulty starting: The most common symptom. The engine may crank but won't start, or it may start intermittently. This is because insufficient fuel is being delivered to the engine.
* No start: In severe cases, the engine won't start at all.
Driving Issues:
* Hesitation or sputtering: The engine may hesitate or sputter, especially under acceleration, due to an inconsistent fuel supply.
* Loss of power: The engine may lose power or feel sluggish, particularly at higher speeds or under load.
* Surging: The engine may surge or fluctuate in speed unexpectedly.
* Stalling: The engine may stall, especially at idle or during low-speed driving.
* Reduced fuel economy: A malfunctioning fuel pump can lead to inefficient fuel consumption.
Other Issues:
* Fuel pressure problems: A fuel pressure gauge can confirm low fuel pressure, a key indicator of a failing pump.
* Whining noise: You might hear a whining or buzzing sound from the fuel tank area, especially when the ignition is turned on. This is the pump trying to work harder.
* Check engine light: A malfunctioning fuel pump will often trigger the check engine light, along with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
It's important to note that some of these symptoms can also be caused by other problems in the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter, bad fuel injectors, or a faulty fuel pressure regulator. A proper diagnosis by a mechanic is necessary to pinpoint the exact cause. Ignoring a failing fuel pump can lead to more serious damage to the engine.
