The fuel system of your vehicle is either mechanical or electronic. Most of today’s cars are equipped with an electronic fuel system. The fuel pump is responsible for pressurizing fuel from a vehicle’s gas tank and sending it to the engine. Since the electronic fuel system is most common, we will discuss that design in this article.
The electronic fuel system has injectors that squirt fuel into the combustion chambers of the engine. A computer controls this system and it monitors the position of the throttle, the air-fuel ratio, and the contents of the exhaust. The fuel pump is powered and controlled electronically to pump the fuel through the system. It is generally located on the inside or next to the fuel tank.
The best way to maintain your fuel system and get longevity out of your fuel pump is pretty simple:
- Replace your inline fuel filter on an annual basis or approximately every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Keep your fuel system clean by having the throttle body and fuel injection system cleaned approximately every 20,000 to 30,000 miles.
- Follow the rule of avoiding the level of your fuel, falling below a ¼ of a tank.
These simple steps can help to avoid restrictions, help maintain a proper air-fuel ratio mixture, and reduce undue strain on the fuel pump. Following these steps can also improve throttle response, smoother idle, improved fuel economy, and lessen harmful emissions.
Happy Motoring!
Karen Johnston, AUTO REPAIR INSIDER
All About Automotive
139 NW 2nd Street
Gresham, OR 97030
503-465-2926
allaboutautomotive.com/
Steve and Karen Johnston are owners of All About Automotive, providing auto repair and auto maintenance in Historic Downtown Gresham. If you have questions or comments, call them at 503-465-2926 or email them at [email protected]
