Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump:
* No Start: This is the most obvious sign. The engine cranks but won't start because it's not getting fuel.
* Difficult Starting (Hesitation): The engine cranks and eventually starts, but it takes longer than usual or sputters before catching. This could indicate a weak pump.
* Stalling: The engine stalls unexpectedly, especially when accelerating or under load.
* Loss of Power/Hesitation during Acceleration: The car feels sluggish or hesitates when you accelerate, indicating insufficient fuel delivery.
* Whining Noise from the Fuel Tank: You might hear a humming or whining noise coming from the area of the fuel tank, especially when the key is turned to the "on" position (before cranking). This is often a sign of a failing pump. This is less common in newer vehicles due to quieter pump designs but still possible.
* Reduced Fuel Pressure: This requires a fuel pressure gauge to check directly.
How to Diagnose:
1. Check the Fuel Level: Make sure the fuel tank isn't simply empty! This is the most basic check.
2. Listen for the Fuel Pump: Turn the ignition key to the "on" position (without starting the engine). You should hear a brief humming or whirring sound from the fuel tank area. If you don't hear anything, the pump might be dead or the power supply to it is faulty. This is an important initial test.
3. Check the Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, mimicking a weak or failing fuel pump. It's a cheap and easy part to replace. Replace the filter first if you don't hear the pump prime. A clogged filter often means the pump has worked harder over time.
4. Check the Fuel Pressure (Most Definitive): This requires a fuel pressure gauge, typically connected to the fuel rail. The gauge will tell you if the pump is delivering the correct fuel pressure as specified in your car's service manual. Low pressure confirms a pump issue, but low pressure can also be caused by other fuel system components. This step is usually done by a mechanic due to the specialization involved.
5. Check the Fuel Pump Relay: A faulty relay can prevent power from reaching the fuel pump. Locate the fuel pump relay (your owner's manual or an online resource should show you its location), and try swapping it with another relay of the same type.
6. Check the Fuel Pump Wiring: Inspect the wiring leading to the fuel pump for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
7. Check the Inertia Switch: Some cars have an inertia switch (a safety device that cuts power to the fuel pump in case of a collision). Check your owner's manual and locate it. It may be resettable, depending on whether it tripped.
Important Considerations:
* Safety First: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any fuel system components. Gasoline is highly flammable.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing these checks, especially the fuel pressure test, it's best to take your Firebird to a qualified mechanic. Replacing the fuel pump often requires dropping the fuel tank, which is a more involved job than many DIYers are prepared for.
If after checking all of the above, you still suspect a fuel pump issue and the pressure is low, the fuel pump is highly likely to be the culprit. But remember to systematically eliminate the other possibilities first.
