Fuel Pumps generally have not been one of those parts of a vehicle that need to be replaced on a regular basis; however, like all things mechanical in nature, they have a prescribed life. Most Fuel Pumps are designed to last between 100,000 to 150,000 miles based on driving and maintenance conditions. However, there are a few reasons that can actually cut this time down much sooner, thus periodic replacement may be needed in some instances. Running the car with low fuel all the time makes the pump very hot because fuel is its coolant. When this happens continuously, it may fail well before it has reached the period of replacing.
In some vehicles, those already past the 10-year mark are more prone to wear and tear on the fuel pump. Symptoms of a failing Fuel Pump include difficulty in starting the engine, loss of power during acceleration, or a noticeable whining noise from the fuel tank. If any of these signs become apparent, replacing the Fuel Pump before it actually fails will prevent the car from stalling or losing power on the road.
For example, Volkswagen recalled more than 280,000 cars due to stalling caused by failures in the Fuel Pump in 2020. It was able to point out that this would only have happened if regular maintenance had not been carried out on time. Due to the early replacement of this faulty pump, expensive repairs or safety risks associated with its breakdown are avoided.
Regarding the price, some fuel pumps can cost anywhere between $500 and $1,000 to replace, depending on a few factors: the make and model of the car, labor costs, and whether the replacement is done with aftermarket or OEM parts. Not as regular as a maintenance listing like an oil change, yes, proactive replacement of the Fuel Pump nonetheless can save time and money over time.
As once observed by automotive expert David Vizard, “Preventative maintenance always costs less than unexpected repairs.” Regular inspections of the fuel system can help identify issues early and extend the life of a Fuel Pump.
For more information about how to care for or replace your Fuel Pump, see Fuel Pump.