Fuel supply is one of three main factors for the internal combustion engine to work. Two others are air supply and compression in the cylinders. Other than that, the engine just needs a spark from the spark plug to work properly. But if something is wrong with the fuel supply, there nothing else will help.
In this article, I will tell you about serious problems with fuel supply systems in your engine. I will outline the possible fixes and also give tips on how to avoid the problems. Also, I will give you links to other articles on our blog so that you can investigate certain problems and solve them faster and cheaper.
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Fuel supply problems
Of course, one of the first possible culprits with fuel supply is the fuel pump. There are low-pressure pumps that are located in the tank. And also direct-injection engines have high-pressure pumps. The latter have way more problems and are much more expensive to repair or replace.
Also, diesel pumps are very demanding in terms of service and repair. If you have any issues with fuel pressure, the pump is the first unit to check.
Unfortunately, your fuel pump is not the only system in the fuel supply chain. The issue may be the absence of gas in the tank. And this problem is much more common than you may think. Your fuel gauge may show some gas but it may just be broken.
Another unobvious issue is the EVAP system. This is basically the gas tank ventilation that may get stuck and your pump will just be unable to deliver fuel to the engine.
If you have a carbureted engine, you should pay attention to the carb itself. It may limit the fuel supply and it may need adjustment. There are certain symptoms for this but there aren't so many carb cars left on the roads, so no need to dig deeper now.
Fuel supply problems highlights:
- Level of importance:Very high
- Can you drive?Usually, no
- DIY inspection:Possible
- DIY repairs:Mostly,impossible
- Price of repair:$300 - $650
- Commonreasons:Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, EVAP system, electrical problems
- How to fix:Check the pump, verify it has power, check the fuelfilter
Injection problems
While your pump may be working well and show zero problems, there may be issues with other systems that inject fuel into your engine. Fuel injectors are pretty common culprits of fuel supply issues.
In most cases, when this happens, you will see the misfire code and the engine will work harshly. Sometimes, electrical issues are the culprits and you just need to check the connections. If you hear the specific noise of the injectors, this is a clear sign that the injector itself needs replacement.
When the injector is broken, it will still have power on it but it will not spray the fuel. This is rather easy to check.
Also, direct injection engines are much more problematic with their fuel supply systems. They are more complicated, need higher pressure than simple injectors, and they are also much more expensive.
Injection problems highlights:
- Level of importance:High
- Can you drive?Usually, yes
- DIY inspection:Possible but complicated
- DIY repairs:Mostly,impossible
- Price of repair:$350 - $850
- Commonreasons:Clogging, age, electrical problems
- How to fix:Verify electrical connectors, clean the injectors, swap them to see if the codes change
Fuel-related mistakes
Sometimes, the problems with fuel supply are connected with our actions rather than with a certain equipment problem. For example, driving with a very low gas level may lead to issues with the pump.
Also, there are problems with the gas type you use for your car. It should be the recommended gas type. And it's not that bad if you once buy regular instead of premium. But it's a very big problem if you accidentally buy diesel fuel and pour it into the tank of a gas-powered car.
One more common issue is to buy E85 for cars that aren't made to burn this type of fuel. Make sure your vehicle is on the list of E85 cars before you do this.
Also, a lot of mistakes are connected with the fuel supply and injection system repairs. For example, you should always lube injector O-rings before installing them into the engine. Otherwise, taking them out will be pretty hard for the next repair session.
Fuel-related mistakes highlights:
- Level of importance:Medium
- Can you drive?Usually, yes
- DIY inspection:Possible
- DIY repairs:Mostly,impossible
- Price of repair:$100 - $650
- Commonreasons:Wrong fuel, wrong repair procedures
- How to fix:Never drive the vehicle with the wrong fuel in the tank, always go for professional help
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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