OMG ericthecarguy you for fuel level! Also on fords check the inertia switch which may have triggered for some reason or another. Anyway Great video keep this up!!!!!
Good Video, and explanation. I am a backyard mechanic, that hates to work on cars, but works on my own car, because I can't afford to pay some one, and I am cheap. Can a fuel pump for fuel injection be intermittent in operation, which is much more difficult to isolate? Or do they either work or don't?
i replaced my fuel filter and checked the fuses .. everything is fine .. so my guess is it the fuel pump .. it makes that noise but sometimes i dont hear anything . my truck turns on but it starts to shake and then turns off .. could it be the fuel pump.. i have a 03 silverado 1500 4.8L please help ..
One simple thing that this video misses is to check the inertia switch. This switch is made to stop the flow of fuel in case of an accident but can fail for any number of other reasons. Consult your owners manual or dealer to find the location of this switch. It should have a button (usually on top). Just press it and try and restart. I found this out on my 2006 Ford Ranger AFTER having two fuel pumps replaced. My switch was on the passenger side at the floor. One push and Iwas off and running!!
Recently my 1988 ford mustang 5.0, the gas gauge goes past full when I turn the key to on position. I only have a quarter tank left in it. The gas gauge doesn't stay stuck at all. When I turn the key to off position, the gas gauge goes down a little. The car starts right up perfectly fine. I'm just not getting an accurate reading when the car is on. Could it possibly be "The Fuel Sending Unit?
hi eric...i got a question for you..i have a 1998 acura integra gsr, now the problem i'm having is. when i'm driving on the street or freeway and switch gear to neutral to slow down, the car would shut off on its own, and i would have to pop start it while the car is still moving, also when i just drive regularly on the street or freeway my car would jerk like i'm losing fuel to the injectors or something, when i run over a pot hole or little bump it would jerk and my rpm would drop to 500 rpm.
Another way to check is find the plug in to the fuel pump.Test the grey wire with a test light,with the key on and there should be no power to it.I would not not install an airtex and I wonder why Carquest switched to Delphi for their GM fuel pumps.Carquest had problems with their fuel pumps when airtex was their supplier.Delphi and AC Delco is the way to go for GM fuel pumps.One big killer of a fuel pump is a badly plugged up fuel filter,puts a strain on it.
I have a 2005 vw touareg v6 now I put gas in the tank once I did that right at the gas pump the touareg stalled on me, it turns on but then it shuts off within a couple of seconds,. I bought a STP Fuel injection cleaner and thank God drove it home with no problem, the next day it happens again, now I check everything but I still not exactly sure what's wrong with it. I believe I have two fuel pumps inside the cab passenger it's easy to replace but I don't want to do any cut outs yet unless fo
airtex is JUNK!! hence the cheap price. get a AC Delco or Delpi, its what the american car manufactures use. makes sense. they last for 150,000 miles or more. mine lasted 140,000 miles over a 10 yr period. and use at least a MID Grade fuel. if u think cheap when it comes to ur car, then it will act cheap. :)
At the first you tried to hear the fuel pomp noise through the fueling way and there was nothing! then you checked the power (fuse & relay), there was no problem. Now checking the fuel pressure is really funny! you don't need to do that. Abviously the fuel pomp has stoped working.
I have a 99 Ford Taurus with the Duratec 24v V-6,and some times the fuel pump works,and when ever it doesnt,you need to cycle the key 20 times,until the fuel pump finally cuts on.What could be wrong with it,and how much would it be to repair.I would try checking the fuse and relay but i couldn't find the fuel pump relay or fuse.I checked my owners manual and i found the relay,but it looks nothing like a relay so im not even sure if its correct.
@integraz32lover When your car won't start, turn on the key then try beat the fuel tank with a piece of wood. Then try to start engine. Most probably you car starts without any problem. If it happened, drive to a mechanic shop & replace the fuel pomp, it's done!
And to add when i replaced the fuel filter it was pretty clogged which is leading me to believe that is what burnt the ecu and maybe the pump, but i had a tbi chevy kick me around for a week until i found a short in the harness for ignition module.
Im looking at dropping the tank on a 2001 Astro van, ecu fuse was blown, i replaced it and still nothing the relay is not switching so i swapped it out nothing changed. I would check oil pressure sending unit but the book says the motor has to be running. anyhow if i missed something please inform me it would be much appreciated!
@glacial5584 Honestly I don't know, you may have an electrical issue causing the problem but without looking at the vehicle for myself it's hard to say what the problem is.
@glacial5584 Go to the wiring diagram and put 12 volts(with jumper wires) to the correct fuel pump wire under the truck and see if you hear the pressurizing sounds or use an icicle light(wire tester) and see if the fuel pump wire harness has a short on the positive or a bad ground. Wires are all color coded and should be in every service manual.
I think you guys are quite helpful! There might be one item you did not mention that I know has an impact on your test. That being the collision fuel shutoff switch which I know on one of my vehicles is in the floor of passenger side or in front of the door there. With that switch, which acts just like a fuse, you can reset it by just pushing the button. Could you possibly do a video on the fuel pressure regulator for an astro van? I have to use starter fluid on cold starts often. great job!
@Eric I'm having a problem with my 2006 Nissan Titan one morning I took my kids to school it was running fine but when my husband took it to work or when he was leaving he said it wouldn't start but would like sputter then die but the next day it started fine ran most the day but in the night it started doing the something well we had someone look at it and he said it was the fuel pump... Can it make my truck do that if it's the fuel pump???
@aztecmija26 The only way to know is to check the fuel pressure during the condition, you should also check spark output. The important thing when diagnosing a performance problem is to gather evidence and not make assumptions.
I have an old ranger and oneday the "do a barrel roll" sensor activated and the pump got shutdown, it took me 2 days to realise the ranger has such sensor and it needed to be restarted
This video dose not preclude the possibility that it could be your crankshaft position sensor. If the CPS is faulty (no spark) ...then ECM will not send a signal to fuel pump to start pumping.
@FxScalper To my knowledge that's not the way it works, what you suggest might not allow the fuel injectors to fire and it might turn off the fuel pump because it doesn't see a crank signal, the pump would still energize for a short time indicating that the problem is not the pump itself.
@EricTheCarGuy you are absolutely right. the second you turn on the key the fuel pump should energize and pressurize the system.. this is before the car even knows if the crank shaft position sensor is working. what i use to test the connections is the high beam side off the headlight of an old pickup truck that pulls anywhere from 5 to 7 amps. this checks the ground and the posative. test lights are good but they don't draw alot of amps so if you have a cruddy ground you will never know.
Hey great video very helpful. Now that I have some knowledge about this fuel pump, my car sometimes start and sometimes it just wont start. I believe is the fuel pump since when I get my gas tank full my car wont start but when is up to 3/4 my car starts normally now it wont even start. do you think is the fuel pump is bad? by the way i haven't follow the steps on the video.
@ivan222 I would suggest checking the fuel pressure if you suspect a problem with the fuel pump, it could be something else. See the video that I posted on Diagnosing a No Start Condition for specifics on that.
@hp11208 Thats when you consult with the service manual or an electrical schematic for the vehicle you're working on. You first need to determine that the fuel pump is the issue first then break it down from there.
@MrErod718 Normally the fuel pump has it's own fuse but the controls for the pump may be fused elsewhere, you need to check the wiring diagram of the vehicle that you're working on.
@INfamusVue It is possible but I hardly ever see anything like that. You can check the fuel pressure to verify that the engine is getting enough to run.
HI i have a 1994 ford mustang gt 5.0 and i have a no start i engage auxillary and i can hear the fuel pump it is quite loud but when i try to turn over sounds like its out of gas but is not. wondering if a fuel pump[ that is faulty will not make noise or wether other issues could b the culprit such as lines or fueses but am not sure i even have a electronic pump or not.
@xGodofAtheistsx If you hear the fuel pump running it's not likely that it's bad but you can check the fuel pressure and compare that to spec to verify it's operation. You should also check for spark output as well as the mechanical timing of the engine and perhaps even a compression test. Good luck.
I have a 95 monte carlo...the car will start if I keep pressing on the accelerator..it would run for a few minutes and shut off...i can drive the car around the block , but it would then shutdown and will not start back up until after it sit for about an half hour and the same process will accur..Do that sound like a faulty gas filter...
@jayceexx Not really but the only way to know is to directly check the fuel pressure. I would also pull any check engine light codes you have as well as look for intake or coolant leaks near the intake gasket. Good luck.
Eric I tried these diagnostics and I don't know what's wrong with my truck. It makes the same noise as in this video. You can hear the pump from the gas opening, the fuses are all good and the really clicks as well. The only thing I can't find is the pressure because I don't own the right tool for that... Do you think it's still the fuel pump?
@Tony38299 If you hear the pump running then it may not be the pump but until you check the pressure you will not know for sure. Don't forget to check for spark and that the engine is mechanically sound.
A eric i got that starting problem fixed. i just bought a new walbro 255 pump, but im not getin no fuel pressure. i was taking out my battery when i had the stock pump in and the tool, touched a bit of metal and mad a spark.now that i have the new pump in and i hear it prims but im not getin any pressure .did i blow my main relay out.?
@Tupples1 Not sure what kind of car your working on but if you hear the pump running it's probably not the pump, perhaps it's something to do with the installation.
@viggoM35 Not the engineers fault I can tell you that, keep in mind everything you just mentioned costs money and raises the cost of the vehicle as well as production cost.
@EricTheCarGuy Interesting. A 1999 Tahoe im working on has a fuel pump that turns on sometimes and at other times it doesnt...changed the relay...problem still exists....sometimes it cranks, but engine dies as if out of gas...bad fuel pump?
I have a 2000 cadillac dts an it wont start could tht be the problem to my gas gauge doesnt work nether it wll read full all time but when I part it an leave it runin it will drop to wher the gas is but then go drive it well read as full now it wont start sometime it will stall..
Do you happen to know were the fuel relay is located for a 1996 camaro Z28 and you mention that the fuel fuse is named under another name which was ? Please help me out!
so i'm hoping you can help me eric, i have a 1993 mazda 626, the pump isnt turning on when it was in the tank and i did all the checks in the video, and i drop the fuel tank and pull out the pump and then put voltage to it and it works. Im not sure if its enough psi tho and i dont have a multimeter to check the voltage at the fuel tank. Ive been fighting with this car for a few weeks do you have any suggestions? the only thing that I can think of is either loose or corroded wires.. help!
@therealprp20 What was the fuel pressure? Was it in spec? If you checked the pressure and it was below spec it might indicate a problem with the pump or fuel pressure regulator. You also need to make sure the pump is getting power and ground.
Thank you for your videos, this helped me very much! Not able to afford to take my vehicle to a mechanic and be charged lot of what I don't have, money, so I went to your site and gave a small donation. Thank you Mr. Eric
hi erick i have some trouble with my gmc yukon 2001 .. it doesnt start properlly , it starts after 10-15 times i turn the ing switch on.... when the engine had started its sounds like going to dye if i press the gas pedal doesn acelerate ang turn off,,,, i chenge spark plugs, wires, fel fitler, fuel pressure regulator...........the fuel pump is working bcos when i turn on the switch makes noise ..... whats wrong with my car ...? can you tell me a diagnostic ...please help me ...........thanks
@jhep1985 It's really not possible for me to tell you what's wrong without getting a look for myself but start with the basics and check the fuel pressure (I know you have new parts but check anyway) and for spark. You might also go back and check your work just to be sure everything was installed correctly. Lastly you might consider posting your question to my forum on my website as someone there may have had the same problem in the past or may offer other suggestions for you.
thanks for the Vid. As luck would have it, you are diagnosing my vehicle in the video. I love it when that happens. Any chance you want to post a video of the actual fuel pump replacement process? :)
Hi Eric, my name is Eric from New Zealand. I just had a fuel pump problem with my 95 Mercedes. Called the roadside mechanic, and he said it's a definitely a fuel pump problem, (my car didn't start, but soon after the mechanic hit the bottom part of my vehicle, it did!). And my car is at garage now, about to get serviced.
Anyway, think this is a great video. I learned something new today! =P
Thanks and keep it up! Cheers...
Btw, my fuel tank is full now, just filled up last night. lol
great vid eric, how would i test the fuel pump accurately if my car only doesnt start once in a while? I would say my car would not start every other day or so. around 10 starts
@christianbaclao The best way is to start with a fuel pressure test as shown in this video to verify that fuel pressure is the cause of the no start. If it's not you might look to the ignition system for the fault.
@EricTheCarGuy I noticed that my car wasnt starting in extreme heat. so i resoldered my Main Fuel Relay. Seems to work now. been going good for the past 3 days
Hey Eric, My car has a hiss inside the gas tank. Someone suggested that one of the hoses from the fuel pump inside the tank could have a hole in it, thereby leaking back into the tank. The Car cranks, runs fine, but is making that hiss when you rev the motor. Any thoughts or ideas? I dont smell gas, and when i remove the gas cap, the system is keeping pressure even after sitting for a day.
@Dantesdoom If you don't notice any performance issue I would leave it alone, you might consider replacing the fuel filter but other than that I would not pursue it further unless you have a performance issue of some sort.
@EricTheCarGuy Thats what I was thinking. I replaced the fuel filter about 2000 miles ago. But anyways, I went out today and the noise was gone. Strange, but thats fine with me. Thanks for the response. It always amazes me how quick you get back to your subscribers. By far one of the best channels on Youtube.
@EricTheCarGuy ....Ive never stopped to help a dead Chevy with fuel pump issue so i would not know, But a few months ago i seen 3 Chevy trucks in my little town with there tanks dropped and i guess it was fuel pump issues! Im a ford guy and the only issue with fuel pumps i had was a regulator on a 86 f-150 was bad and was flooding a 5.0 l ,and a newer 6.4 l ford 350 diesel running his truck low on fuel and the pump burnt up ! Other then that for me only Chevy i see this happen too!
@infinity3jif You may not have installed the 'damper' correctly, it's the little rubber hose at the top of the pump, if it's pushed on too far it can cause noise, that piece of hose is actually there to help keep the noise down and dampen the pulses from the fuel pump. It could also be the pump, some pumps are noisier than others, if it works and supplies the proper fuel pressure you might just want to turn the radio up.
@infinity3jif let it hummmmm and dont worry it will stop sum time haha sorry ! return line plugged ? worth a shot in the dark 4 you ....has to be a reason to much draw on the pump is it over working ? does it sound like normal running ? is this a fuel pump on the fram rail ? or in tank ?....did you put the pump in the wrong way ? sounds like fish to me ? Did you put your fuel pump in ? why do you ask question for you issues on you tube..This is not my channel and now i feel i must help you !
@santafe2020 It sounds like you have more than one problem. I honestly don't remember your original question but if you have a check engine light I would start the diagnosis there and repair what the issue is as it may be the cause. Good luck and thanks for the comment.
Do you have a vid that talks about the sounds a fuel pump makes ? That might indicate a problem in the pump assembly or tank... that is in diag engine problems where spark/vacuum leaks etc are ruled out. My car has been having some issues, fuel def gets pressurized but I also hear the pump making a diff sound, almost like a swirly sound when primed.
@hubbleISS I don't really go by that because it's so subjective, as for fuel pressure diagnosis the pressure readings normally tell all, I think that would be more useful than trying to give a list of fuel pump sounds to draw a diagnosis. Auto repair is more of a science than anything else.
@EricTheCarGuy Ok, I was just wondering since this change in sound has become noticeable during the recent change in engine operation, even though, fuel pressure is apparently up to spec.
Good video Eric, another way to test a gm fuel pump in a no start condition is to pop the fuel tank with a plastic mallet a couple of times and then retry. Works really well when stuck on the side of the road unless the pump is completely dead.
before even thinking its a faulty fuel pump, might want to consider may be a faulty electrical connection to the pump itself. may be a bad connector or problem with the harness where its sending no voltage or ground to the pump, hence the pump not buzzing soon as you turn on the ignition.
hey maybe u can help me out with this as well....sometimes when i go to turn on my car it turns on but then turns off right away but when i try again and press the gas it stays on do u think its the gas pump going out...its a 04 Pontiac grand prix
@flashdkr You would need to confirm this with a fuel pressure gauge but if the check valve in the pump is going bad then it may not hold pressure in the line after you shut it off. It could also be an issue with a fuel pressure regulator but I would be checking the fuel pressure when the condition occurs to find the nature of the problem.
I hope when I change my new fuel sending unit that fluctuate to my old one that it will read the gas correctly and use the old fuel pump socket and connectors. What my dad did was he left so much wire leads on the new connector and it is hanging on the side of the fuel tank and I think that why its fluctuate. Because he probably didn't crimp the leads good enough or vibration cause the leads to become loose. My old sending unit lucky I kept it work very good before and nothing was wrong with it
@EricTheCarGuy I know it need to be replace because even with full tank of gas it read empty when the engine is not running and full when the engine is driving.
My dad threw away the socket with the leads on them 3 years ago and that was stupid now I have to buy a new one which will cost me $50.99 at Advance Auto. I could just swap all the old original wiring harness socket and connector to the new pump and hopefully the new pump I have on now does still have the same connectors for the original fuel sending unit. Just saying I know for sure that my old fuel sending unit that I save after my old pimp stop working, the sending unit still read correctly
A BAD FUEL PUMP IS CAUSE BY WATER GETTING INTO THE FILLER NECK SOME HOW WHEN THAT PERSON IS FILLING UP THERE GAS...LIKE WATER CAN STILL BE ON THE GAS CAP AND WHEN THEY SCREW IT BACK ON WATER DRIP INTO THE TANK AND ALSO IF YOU DRIVE THE CAR WITH CONDENSATION IN THE TANK IT CAN CAUSE A FUEL PUMP TO GO BAD AND RUST IT. HERE MY QUESTION: HOW CAN YOU DIAGNOSE A BAD FUEL SENDING UNIT THAT CAUSES A FUEL GAUGE TO FLUCTUATE.
@MileyCyrus192 Haven't heard of that before, interesting. I normally diagnose sending units by removing them and checking their resistance with an ohm meter as I move the arm through it's travel, if you find any dead spots or fluctuations replace the sending unit, if not check the wiring to the gauge as well as the voltage regulation circuit in the cluster.
@EricTheCarGuy All my wires to the gauges and everything else before I replace my fuel pump was working really good. After I change to the new pump in 2008... the new pump had this stupid new wiring harness it was not the original 4 square socket anymore its the 4 flat socket...you can see what my fuel pump look like by checking on my vehicle it is a 1999 GMC Envoy. I kept the original fuel pump that had the original wiring harness socket and the fuel sending unit.
hey Erick, big fan here and love your vids and the reason you are doing this.
I need a little help diagnosing a problem on my 98 accord, most of the time when I turn the key it cranks, but no start. but every time I use the remote starter(aftermarket) it turns on flawlessly then I insert the key, turn it and drive away, thats the most reliable way to turn on my car hence I'm already used to starting my car that way bc of that problem. I thought maybe it could be a bad ignition switch relay? HELP
@TCreatorO I would say that the remote start or security system is at fault if it only starts with the remote, it probably needs to see a signal from the key fob in order to run, you may just have to live with it.
@EricTheCarGuy ooh.... thanks for answering, I wanted to tell you that now that its been warm for a while, for the last week I tried the key and it has been working almost flawlessly too, and I asked one of the techs at work and he has owned hondas like forever, and he told me that it could be that I need a new main relay? and to get an original from honda, that they go bad on hondas quite often. so I might give that a try before I try yanking out the remote starter/keyless entry
I love the beginning of this Airtex tour. But if I'm diagnosing a fuel pump, and I don't hear it run first off, I'm not going to then hook up a pressure tester... Kinda redundant. I'll kick the fuel tank a few times, then look at power and ground circuits.
@07hdflht I like to test them that way myself, in fact I often use my trusty power probe because you are correct that a fuse can look good and still be bad. The idea behind it was to encourage people to check the fuse first as it could be a very simple fix. Thanks for the comment.
I can tell this is the latest video by the # of views lol.
I'd think it would be pretty hard to do step 1 if your in a noisy enviroment. But steps 2 -4 I found invaluble. That fuel pressure gage is makes it butt loads easier too.
I know this doesn't have anything to do with fuel pumps but...I have a 2002 subaru forester and I've been experiencing some engine surging...but only when the interior fan is on. It'll make this strange humming noise that comes and goes, and the rpm will drop by 2 or 3 hundred. It only does this when the fan is on. I'm kind of scratching my head over this one. Any ideas?
@BHownsall Hard to say really, it could be a bad blower putting too much of an electrical load on the system or a lose belt on the alternator. I really don't know if I'm honest.
Eric, another great vid, but one more thing to check if there is voltage at the fuel pump connector with a test 12 volt test light, and if the light appears dim the pump may still be good, but the wiring may have corrosion somewhere causing high resistance. Kinda rare but is something to check out. This pump in the video seemed DOA.
@SuperTech123451 That's what we meant by you need to go to the pump next. I hope to make a part 2 of this video at some point covering that very thing. Thanks for the input and for your comment.
I have a 1992 Honda prelude and I have a start up problem but eventually start after turning the car for a while. It starts alot faster when its warm outside is this a fuel pressure problem?
@scewologist Possibly, you might want to check the fuel pressure when the problem occurs. You can also try turning the key to run a couple of times before you crank the engine, if it starts then it could be the check valve in the fuel pump.
Another brilliant video, Eric. This actually happened to me while I was on vacation with no tools. The local general mechanic helped me out, spent about 90 minutes figuring out what the problem was, and charged me $20 when it turned out to be a fuse. I think he was feeling a little sheepish when he took so long to come to the diagnosis, but he was such a great guy. Salt of the earth. I did my best to help him out when he came to me years later with a problem in my area.
@EricTheCarGuy As in many areas, the public is quick to assume the worst about people in a position of power. But often the reality is much more innocent. The public don't seem to understand how difficult it can be to make an accurate diagnosis. So, time spent doing that is undervalued. The shop funds that time with income obtained from markup on parts, creating an imbalance that isn't good for anybody.
If you are stuck somewhere with a bad fuel pump and don't want to pay for a tow. You can try beating the bottom of the tank (beat hard) either with the key on or with someone else cranking while you are beating with a hammer or some other heavy object.
I have gotten lots of pick up trucks back to the shop with out needing a tow. It doesn't always work but is something worth trying to get you home or to the nearest shop.
Thanks.
chppper67 3 days ago
OMG ericthecarguy you for fuel level! Also on fords check the inertia switch which may have triggered for some reason or another. Anyway Great video keep this up!!!!!
alldayandnight09 4 days ago in playlist Engine
the first thing to look ad is the fuel level
fl0r1svdk 6 days ago
Good Video, and explanation. I am a backyard mechanic, that hates to work on cars, but works on my own car, because I can't afford to pay some one, and I am cheap. Can a fuel pump for fuel injection be intermittent in operation, which is much more difficult to isolate? Or do they either work or don't?
Jose F. Medeiros, San Jose, Calif
Josemedeiros 1 week ago
Thanks !!!
itowii 1 week ago
:) good video!!!
BroncoBeast13 1 week ago
nice video eric ........ you help a lot of people doing DIY
kalimantans 1 week ago
i replaced my fuel filter and checked the fuses .. everything is fine .. so my guess is it the fuel pump .. it makes that noise but sometimes i dont hear anything . my truck turns on but it starts to shake and then turns off .. could it be the fuel pump.. i have a 03 silverado 1500 4.8L please help ..
562exposed562 1 week ago
Can you check the fuel pump by just unhooking fuel line and see that it squirts fuel ?
Jbsalazar72 2 weeks ago
One simple thing that this video misses is to check the inertia switch. This switch is made to stop the flow of fuel in case of an accident but can fail for any number of other reasons. Consult your owners manual or dealer to find the location of this switch. It should have a button (usually on top). Just press it and try and restart. I found this out on my 2006 Ford Ranger AFTER having two fuel pumps replaced. My switch was on the passenger side at the floor. One push and Iwas off and running!!
ncoclub1 2 weeks ago
you need your own show man!!!
mmmmtastyful 2 weeks ago
i have question, what does it mean by cycle the key? thk u
234fpi 2 weeks ago
@234fpi Cycling the key means turning the ignition key from the off position to the run position.
351cleavland 2 weeks ago
the best vid, thk u, i just wonder where is your location? i mean your shop, if around LA i would bring my car to you, if my car have problem.
234fpi 2 weeks ago
most petrol vauxhalls dont cycle the pump until your cranking the engine
TG1986IRL 2 weeks ago
Hi Eric!
Recently my 1988 ford mustang 5.0, the gas gauge goes past full when I turn the key to on position. I only have a quarter tank left in it. The gas gauge doesn't stay stuck at all. When I turn the key to off position, the gas gauge goes down a little. The car starts right up perfectly fine. I'm just not getting an accurate reading when the car is on. Could it possibly be "The Fuel Sending Unit?
dc007fan 2 weeks ago
MUSIC is LUV! Youtube/REGGIEWRITEOUS
ReggieWriteous 3 weeks ago
To effectively check the relayits output contacts must be checked before further diagnoses.
texo0borsky 3 weeks ago
now if your stranded go beat the tank with a hammer and pray it can momentarily fix it long enough to limp home haha
stydel311 3 weeks ago
hi eric...i got a question for you..i have a 1998 acura integra gsr, now the problem i'm having is. when i'm driving on the street or freeway and switch gear to neutral to slow down, the car would shut off on its own, and i would have to pop start it while the car is still moving, also when i just drive regularly on the street or freeway my car would jerk like i'm losing fuel to the injectors or something, when i run over a pot hole or little bump it would jerk and my rpm would drop to 500 rpm.
DuBNeTiX 1 month ago
Another way to check is find the plug in to the fuel pump.Test the grey wire with a test light,with the key on and there should be no power to it.I would not not install an airtex and I wonder why Carquest switched to Delphi for their GM fuel pumps.Carquest had problems with their fuel pumps when airtex was their supplier.Delphi and AC Delco is the way to go for GM fuel pumps.One big killer of a fuel pump is a badly plugged up fuel filter,puts a strain on it.
wafrederick 1 month ago
I have a 2005 vw touareg v6 now I put gas in the tank once I did that right at the gas pump the touareg stalled on me, it turns on but then it shuts off within a couple of seconds,. I bought a STP Fuel injection cleaner and thank God drove it home with no problem, the next day it happens again, now I check everything but I still not exactly sure what's wrong with it. I believe I have two fuel pumps inside the cab passenger it's easy to replace but I don't want to do any cut outs yet unless fo
GIOSALVA1 1 month ago
If he keeps doing that cranking he will fry up that starter too.
agenthelios1 1 month ago
its a chevy, of course its a fuel pump.
zach9802 1 month ago in playlist Electrical
Hey guys, many thanks for making this video. It is much appreciated.
opsvideo2008 1 month ago
airtex is JUNK!! hence the cheap price. get a AC Delco or Delpi, its what the american car manufactures use. makes sense. they last for 150,000 miles or more. mine lasted 140,000 miles over a 10 yr period. and use at least a MID Grade fuel. if u think cheap when it comes to ur car, then it will act cheap. :)
MrHowe2011 1 month ago
At the first you tried to hear the fuel pomp noise through the fueling way and there was nothing! then you checked the power (fuse & relay), there was no problem. Now checking the fuel pressure is really funny! you don't need to do that. Abviously the fuel pomp has stoped working.
TAQEDAR 1 month ago
I have a 99 Ford Taurus with the Duratec 24v V-6,and some times the fuel pump works,and when ever it doesnt,you need to cycle the key 20 times,until the fuel pump finally cuts on.What could be wrong with it,and how much would it be to repair.I would try checking the fuse and relay but i couldn't find the fuel pump relay or fuse.I checked my owners manual and i found the relay,but it looks nothing like a relay so im not even sure if its correct.
integraz32lover 2 months ago
@integraz32lover When your car won't start, turn on the key then try beat the fuel tank with a piece of wood. Then try to start engine. Most probably you car starts without any problem. If it happened, drive to a mechanic shop & replace the fuel pomp, it's done!
TAQEDAR 1 month ago
@TAQEDAR Ok ill try that,Thanks for the tip!!
integraz32lover 1 month ago
And to add when i replaced the fuel filter it was pretty clogged which is leading me to believe that is what burnt the ecu and maybe the pump, but i had a tbi chevy kick me around for a week until i found a short in the harness for ignition module.
glacial5584 2 months ago
@glacial5584 You might try posting your question over at my forum on my website.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
Im looking at dropping the tank on a 2001 Astro van, ecu fuse was blown, i replaced it and still nothing the relay is not switching so i swapped it out nothing changed. I would check oil pressure sending unit but the book says the motor has to be running. anyhow if i missed something please inform me it would be much appreciated!
glacial5584 2 months ago
@glacial5584 Honestly I don't know, you may have an electrical issue causing the problem but without looking at the vehicle for myself it's hard to say what the problem is.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
@glacial5584 Go to the wiring diagram and put 12 volts(with jumper wires) to the correct fuel pump wire under the truck and see if you hear the pressurizing sounds or use an icicle light(wire tester) and see if the fuel pump wire harness has a short on the positive or a bad ground. Wires are all color coded and should be in every service manual.
chupalia 1 week ago
I think you guys are quite helpful! There might be one item you did not mention that I know has an impact on your test. That being the collision fuel shutoff switch which I know on one of my vehicles is in the floor of passenger side or in front of the door there. With that switch, which acts just like a fuse, you can reset it by just pushing the button. Could you possibly do a video on the fuel pressure regulator for an astro van? I have to use starter fluid on cold starts often. great job!
MrMusicDreamz 2 months ago
@MrMusicDreamz Good point, thanks for pointing that out.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
@Eric I'm having a problem with my 2006 Nissan Titan one morning I took my kids to school it was running fine but when my husband took it to work or when he was leaving he said it wouldn't start but would like sputter then die but the next day it started fine ran most the day but in the night it started doing the something well we had someone look at it and he said it was the fuel pump... Can it make my truck do that if it's the fuel pump???
aztecmija26 2 months ago
@aztecmija26 The only way to know is to check the fuel pressure during the condition, you should also check spark output. The important thing when diagnosing a performance problem is to gather evidence and not make assumptions.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
I have an old ranger and oneday the "do a barrel roll" sensor activated and the pump got shutdown, it took me 2 days to realise the ranger has such sensor and it needed to be restarted
SmopuiM 2 months ago
Eric what if the fuel pressure drop to 0 immediately after engine is turned off? what could be the problem?
raguqx 2 months ago
@raguqx The check valve in the fuel pump comes to mind but it could also be a leaking injector or a bad fuel pressure regulator come to think of it.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
do you know anything about 1949 ford fuel pumps?
korvettemaster 2 months ago
@korvettemaster I believe they were mechanical.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
This video dose not preclude the possibility that it could be your crankshaft position sensor. If the CPS is faulty (no spark) ...then ECM will not send a signal to fuel pump to start pumping.
FxScalper 2 months ago
@FxScalper To my knowledge that's not the way it works, what you suggest might not allow the fuel injectors to fire and it might turn off the fuel pump because it doesn't see a crank signal, the pump would still energize for a short time indicating that the problem is not the pump itself.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy you are absolutely right. the second you turn on the key the fuel pump should energize and pressurize the system.. this is before the car even knows if the crank shaft position sensor is working. what i use to test the connections is the high beam side off the headlight of an old pickup truck that pulls anywhere from 5 to 7 amps. this checks the ground and the posative. test lights are good but they don't draw alot of amps so if you have a cruddy ground you will never know.
indianoutlaw571 2 months ago
Hey great video very helpful. Now that I have some knowledge about this fuel pump, my car sometimes start and sometimes it just wont start. I believe is the fuel pump since when I get my gas tank full my car wont start but when is up to 3/4 my car starts normally now it wont even start. do you think is the fuel pump is bad? by the way i haven't follow the steps on the video.
ivan222 2 months ago
@ivan222 I would suggest checking the fuel pressure if you suspect a problem with the fuel pump, it could be something else. See the video that I posted on Diagnosing a No Start Condition for specifics on that.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
Eric what if its an electrical problem causing the pump not to come on ?
hp11208 3 months ago
@hp11208 Thats when you consult with the service manual or an electrical schematic for the vehicle you're working on. You first need to determine that the fuel pump is the issue first then break it down from there.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
How do you know when other fuses incorporate components such as the fuel pump?
MrErod718 3 months ago
@MrErod718 Normally the fuel pump has it's own fuse but the controls for the pump may be fused elsewhere, you need to check the wiring diagram of the vehicle that you're working on.
EricTheCarGuy 2 months ago
Thanks
aarabiah 3 months ago
thanks so much, you just made my final paper soooo much easier for me.
yLiMeTeEtOp 3 months ago
@yLiMeTeEtOp I'm happy to help, good luck with the paper.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
If the fuel pump is working effectively could it be possible that the cause of the failure is the fuel filter?
INfamusVue 3 months ago
@INfamusVue It is possible but I hardly ever see anything like that. You can check the fuel pressure to verify that the engine is getting enough to run.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
HI i have a 1994 ford mustang gt 5.0 and i have a no start i engage auxillary and i can hear the fuel pump it is quite loud but when i try to turn over sounds like its out of gas but is not. wondering if a fuel pump[ that is faulty will not make noise or wether other issues could b the culprit such as lines or fueses but am not sure i even have a electronic pump or not.
xGodofAtheistsx 3 months ago
@xGodofAtheistsx If you hear the fuel pump running it's not likely that it's bad but you can check the fuel pressure and compare that to spec to verify it's operation. You should also check for spark output as well as the mechanical timing of the engine and perhaps even a compression test. Good luck.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
I have a 95 monte carlo...the car will start if I keep pressing on the accelerator..it would run for a few minutes and shut off...i can drive the car around the block , but it would then shutdown and will not start back up until after it sit for about an half hour and the same process will accur..Do that sound like a faulty gas filter...
jayceexx 3 months ago
@jayceexx Not really but the only way to know is to directly check the fuel pressure. I would also pull any check engine light codes you have as well as look for intake or coolant leaks near the intake gasket. Good luck.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
@TugNoble Gas does degrade over time but you need to find out what is missing, spark, fuel, or engine mechanical to find the cause of a no start.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
Eric I tried these diagnostics and I don't know what's wrong with my truck. It makes the same noise as in this video. You can hear the pump from the gas opening, the fuses are all good and the really clicks as well. The only thing I can't find is the pressure because I don't own the right tool for that... Do you think it's still the fuel pump?
Tony38299 3 months ago
@Tony38299 If you hear the pump running then it may not be the pump but until you check the pressure you will not know for sure. Don't forget to check for spark and that the engine is mechanically sound.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
A eric i got that starting problem fixed. i just bought a new walbro 255 pump, but im not getin no fuel pressure. i was taking out my battery when i had the stock pump in and the tool, touched a bit of metal and mad a spark.now that i have the new pump in and i hear it prims but im not getin any pressure .did i blow my main relay out.?
Tupples1 3 months ago
@Tupples1 Not sure what kind of car your working on but if you hear the pump running it's probably not the pump, perhaps it's something to do with the installation.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy eric u dont remember me do u im the guy with the turbo ma name was marshmallowrex.lol
Tupples1 3 months ago
eric.... i love you......as a father...
Loctain 3 months ago
@Loctain I love you too son.
EricTheCarGuy 3 months ago
I good tip is to not buy a car with the fuel pump mounted in such a way that there isn't easy access to remove it. ;)
Why not design a bolted access panel to gain access to the top of the fuel tank??????? Damn engineers. lol
viggoM35 4 months ago
@viggoM35 Not the engineers fault I can tell you that, keep in mind everything you just mentioned costs money and raises the cost of the vehicle as well as production cost.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy Not really. Just a simple design change with an access panel would hardly be a major expense to a major car manufacturer.
viggoM35 4 months ago 2
@viggoM35
But then you may do the repair and not take it to the dealer.
Harmonlisa 3 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy Interesting. A 1999 Tahoe im working on has a fuel pump that turns on sometimes and at other times it doesnt...changed the relay...problem still exists....sometimes it cranks, but engine dies as if out of gas...bad fuel pump?
sugarhitman 4 months ago
I have a 2000 cadillac dts an it wont start could tht be the problem to my gas gauge doesnt work nether it wll read full all time but when I part it an leave it runin it will drop to wher the gas is but then go drive it well read as full now it wont start sometime it will stall..
oscarantunez336 4 months ago
@oscarantunez336 I honestly don't know but you could do the checks in this video to help you determine if fuel pressure is the cause of the no start.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
Do you happen to know were the fuel relay is located for a 1996 camaro Z28 and you mention that the fuel fuse is named under another name which was ? Please help me out!
townsters 4 months ago
@townsters It should be named 'fuel pump' and be under the hood similar to the one in this video.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
so i'm hoping you can help me eric, i have a 1993 mazda 626, the pump isnt turning on when it was in the tank and i did all the checks in the video, and i drop the fuel tank and pull out the pump and then put voltage to it and it works. Im not sure if its enough psi tho and i dont have a multimeter to check the voltage at the fuel tank. Ive been fighting with this car for a few weeks do you have any suggestions? the only thing that I can think of is either loose or corroded wires.. help!
therealprp20 4 months ago
@therealprp20 What was the fuel pressure? Was it in spec? If you checked the pressure and it was below spec it might indicate a problem with the pump or fuel pressure regulator. You also need to make sure the pump is getting power and ground.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
What could be the problem if there is no fuel pressure to the motor, but it is not the pump that is bad?
Ninjadelusion 4 months ago
@Ninjadelusion It could be some electrical failure. Follow the steps in this video and it may help you find the problem.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy Thanks. I think its probably the regulator, now.
Ninjadelusion 4 months ago
@Ninjadelusion Don't think test and diagnose.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
Thank you for your videos, this helped me very much! Not able to afford to take my vehicle to a mechanic and be charged lot of what I don't have, money, so I went to your site and gave a small donation. Thank you Mr. Eric
the4thj 5 months ago
@the4thj Thank you very much for your comment and even more for your donation they are both appreciated.
EricTheCarGuy 4 months ago
hi erick i have some trouble with my gmc yukon 2001 .. it doesnt start properlly , it starts after 10-15 times i turn the ing switch on.... when the engine had started its sounds like going to dye if i press the gas pedal doesn acelerate ang turn off,,,, i chenge spark plugs, wires, fel fitler, fuel pressure regulator...........the fuel pump is working bcos when i turn on the switch makes noise ..... whats wrong with my car ...? can you tell me a diagnostic ...please help me ...........thanks
jhep1985 5 months ago
@jhep1985 It's really not possible for me to tell you what's wrong without getting a look for myself but start with the basics and check the fuel pressure (I know you have new parts but check anyway) and for spark. You might also go back and check your work just to be sure everything was installed correctly. Lastly you might consider posting your question to my forum on my website as someone there may have had the same problem in the past or may offer other suggestions for you.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
eric what about checking for power and ground at the fuel pump
12344richard 5 months ago
@12344richard That would be the next step that we hope to cover in another video.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
thanks for the Vid. As luck would have it, you are diagnosing my vehicle in the video. I love it when that happens. Any chance you want to post a video of the actual fuel pump replacement process? :)
joshk311 5 months ago
@joshk311 That is something that is planned for when I return to Airtex along with a few other videos.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
@joshk311 That is something that is planned for when I return to Airtex along with a few other videos.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
Hi Eric, my name is Eric from New Zealand. I just had a fuel pump problem with my 95 Mercedes. Called the roadside mechanic, and he said it's a definitely a fuel pump problem, (my car didn't start, but soon after the mechanic hit the bottom part of my vehicle, it did!). And my car is at garage now, about to get serviced.
Anyway, think this is a great video. I learned something new today! =P
Thanks and keep it up! Cheers...
Btw, my fuel tank is full now, just filled up last night. lol
hu22up2006 5 months ago
@hu22up2006 I'm glad you liked the video and it was able to help you in some way. Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
great vid eric, how would i test the fuel pump accurately if my car only doesnt start once in a while? I would say my car would not start every other day or so. around 10 starts
christianbaclao 5 months ago
@christianbaclao The best way is to start with a fuel pressure test as shown in this video to verify that fuel pressure is the cause of the no start. If it's not you might look to the ignition system for the fault.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy I noticed that my car wasnt starting in extreme heat. so i resoldered my Main Fuel Relay. Seems to work now. been going good for the past 3 days
christianbaclao 5 months ago
Hey Eric, My car has a hiss inside the gas tank. Someone suggested that one of the hoses from the fuel pump inside the tank could have a hole in it, thereby leaking back into the tank. The Car cranks, runs fine, but is making that hiss when you rev the motor. Any thoughts or ideas? I dont smell gas, and when i remove the gas cap, the system is keeping pressure even after sitting for a day.
Dantesdoom 5 months ago
@Dantesdoom car*
Dantesdoom 5 months ago
@Dantesdoom If you don't notice any performance issue I would leave it alone, you might consider replacing the fuel filter but other than that I would not pursue it further unless you have a performance issue of some sort.
EricTheCarGuy 5 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy Thats what I was thinking. I replaced the fuel filter about 2000 miles ago. But anyways, I went out today and the noise was gone. Strange, but thats fine with me. Thanks for the response. It always amazes me how quick you get back to your subscribers. By far one of the best channels on Youtube.
Dantesdoom 5 months ago
Typical Chevy this is a common issue with them ,Have fun dropping the tank !
6poundsoft 6 months ago
@6poundsoft Perhaps in the next video. Is it just me or is it that every time a fuel pump goes out the tank is full?
EricTheCarGuy 6 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy ....Ive never stopped to help a dead Chevy with fuel pump issue so i would not know, But a few months ago i seen 3 Chevy trucks in my little town with there tanks dropped and i guess it was fuel pump issues! Im a ford guy and the only issue with fuel pumps i had was a regulator on a 86 f-150 was bad and was flooding a 5.0 l ,and a newer 6.4 l ford 350 diesel running his truck low on fuel and the pump burnt up ! Other then that for me only Chevy i see this happen too!
6poundsoft 6 months ago
i just replaced the fuel pump on my 1994 crown vic, now it makes a annoying buzzing sound
infinity3jif 6 months ago
@infinity3jif You may not have installed the 'damper' correctly, it's the little rubber hose at the top of the pump, if it's pushed on too far it can cause noise, that piece of hose is actually there to help keep the noise down and dampen the pulses from the fuel pump. It could also be the pump, some pumps are noisier than others, if it works and supplies the proper fuel pressure you might just want to turn the radio up.
EricTheCarGuy 6 months ago
@infinity3jif change ur god dam fuel filter then before you burn this pump up !
6poundsoft 6 months ago
@6poundsoft umm yea the filter was changed a month before the pump went out
infinity3jif 6 months ago
@infinity3jif let it hummmmm and dont worry it will stop sum time haha sorry ! return line plugged ? worth a shot in the dark 4 you ....has to be a reason to much draw on the pump is it over working ? does it sound like normal running ? is this a fuel pump on the fram rail ? or in tank ?....did you put the pump in the wrong way ? sounds like fish to me ? Did you put your fuel pump in ? why do you ask question for you issues on you tube..This is not my channel and now i feel i must help you !
6poundsoft 6 months ago
@6poundsoft oh did you bleed air outta the system ?
6poundsoft 6 months ago
thank you for your reply
i'm living in iraq
the fuel is not good
and the temperture is so high
the check light is on now
and i don't use the car for three days and it is on the sun temp.
i saw the red air bag light in the dash board is still on
please try to help to know the reason
the car is working normally
thanks
santafe2020 6 months ago
@santafe2020 It sounds like you have more than one problem. I honestly don't remember your original question but if you have a check engine light I would start the diagnosis there and repair what the issue is as it may be the cause. Good luck and thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 6 months ago
please i want some one to help me to lean how to change fuel pump and fuel filter of my Hyundai santa fe 2008
santafe2020 6 months ago
@santafe2020 I don't have any videos on that at this time sorry but if you can get your hands on a service manual I'm sure that will help.
EricTheCarGuy 6 months ago
Good video but you forgot Inertia Switch :)
Love Your Channel!
falcon02012 6 months ago
@falcon02012 This was not a vehicle specific video just a general diagnosis video. Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 6 months ago
Do you have a vid that talks about the sounds a fuel pump makes ? That might indicate a problem in the pump assembly or tank... that is in diag engine problems where spark/vacuum leaks etc are ruled out. My car has been having some issues, fuel def gets pressurized but I also hear the pump making a diff sound, almost like a swirly sound when primed.
hubbleISS 7 months ago
@hubbleISS I don't really go by that because it's so subjective, as for fuel pressure diagnosis the pressure readings normally tell all, I think that would be more useful than trying to give a list of fuel pump sounds to draw a diagnosis. Auto repair is more of a science than anything else.
EricTheCarGuy 7 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy Ok, I was just wondering since this change in sound has become noticeable during the recent change in engine operation, even though, fuel pressure is apparently up to spec.
hubbleISS 7 months ago
@hubbleISS I'm not saying ignore it completely but if the pressure is still good then it's hard to condemn it.
EricTheCarGuy 7 months ago
Good video Eric, another way to test a gm fuel pump in a no start condition is to pop the fuel tank with a plastic mallet a couple of times and then retry. Works really well when stuck on the side of the road unless the pump is completely dead.
DamItzGettoRiGG 7 months ago
@DamItzGettoRiGG I do that too but it was decided not to put that into this video. Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 7 months ago
before even thinking its a faulty fuel pump, might want to consider may be a faulty electrical connection to the pump itself. may be a bad connector or problem with the harness where its sending no voltage or ground to the pump, hence the pump not buzzing soon as you turn on the ignition.
wizkid01 7 months ago
@wizkid01 Yes I agree, the plan is to make another video talking about continuing the diagnosis at the tank. Thanks for your input and comment.
EricTheCarGuy 7 months ago
hey maybe u can help me out with this as well....sometimes when i go to turn on my car it turns on but then turns off right away but when i try again and press the gas it stays on do u think its the gas pump going out...its a 04 Pontiac grand prix
flashdkr 7 months ago
@flashdkr You would need to confirm this with a fuel pressure gauge but if the check valve in the pump is going bad then it may not hold pressure in the line after you shut it off. It could also be an issue with a fuel pressure regulator but I would be checking the fuel pressure when the condition occurs to find the nature of the problem.
EricTheCarGuy 7 months ago
thanks for the video!!
rleon1991 8 months ago
@rleon1991 Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
thanks dis was alot of help
streetkingz24 8 months ago
@streetkingz24 I'm glad to hear the video helped, thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
Don't forget that the fuel filter could be ridiculously clogged up...though that's kinda unlikely
vancecoledotcom 8 months ago
@vancecoledotcom That would show up in the fuel pressure check but I think most filters have a bypass if they become restricted.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
I hope when I change my new fuel sending unit that fluctuate to my old one that it will read the gas correctly and use the old fuel pump socket and connectors. What my dad did was he left so much wire leads on the new connector and it is hanging on the side of the fuel tank and I think that why its fluctuate. Because he probably didn't crimp the leads good enough or vibration cause the leads to become loose. My old sending unit lucky I kept it work very good before and nothing was wrong with it
MileyCyrus192 8 months ago
@MileyCyrus192 If you test it first then you will know whether or not it needs to be replaced.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy I know it need to be replace because even with full tank of gas it read empty when the engine is not running and full when the engine is driving.
MileyCyrus192 8 months ago
My dad threw away the socket with the leads on them 3 years ago and that was stupid now I have to buy a new one which will cost me $50.99 at Advance Auto. I could just swap all the old original wiring harness socket and connector to the new pump and hopefully the new pump I have on now does still have the same connectors for the original fuel sending unit. Just saying I know for sure that my old fuel sending unit that I save after my old pimp stop working, the sending unit still read correctly
MileyCyrus192 8 months ago
A BAD FUEL PUMP IS CAUSE BY WATER GETTING INTO THE FILLER NECK SOME HOW WHEN THAT PERSON IS FILLING UP THERE GAS...LIKE WATER CAN STILL BE ON THE GAS CAP AND WHEN THEY SCREW IT BACK ON WATER DRIP INTO THE TANK AND ALSO IF YOU DRIVE THE CAR WITH CONDENSATION IN THE TANK IT CAN CAUSE A FUEL PUMP TO GO BAD AND RUST IT. HERE MY QUESTION: HOW CAN YOU DIAGNOSE A BAD FUEL SENDING UNIT THAT CAUSES A FUEL GAUGE TO FLUCTUATE.
MileyCyrus192 8 months ago
@MileyCyrus192 Haven't heard of that before, interesting. I normally diagnose sending units by removing them and checking their resistance with an ohm meter as I move the arm through it's travel, if you find any dead spots or fluctuations replace the sending unit, if not check the wiring to the gauge as well as the voltage regulation circuit in the cluster.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy All my wires to the gauges and everything else before I replace my fuel pump was working really good. After I change to the new pump in 2008... the new pump had this stupid new wiring harness it was not the original 4 square socket anymore its the 4 flat socket...you can see what my fuel pump look like by checking on my vehicle it is a 1999 GMC Envoy. I kept the original fuel pump that had the original wiring harness socket and the fuel sending unit.
MileyCyrus192 8 months ago
hey Erick, big fan here and love your vids and the reason you are doing this.
I need a little help diagnosing a problem on my 98 accord, most of the time when I turn the key it cranks, but no start. but every time I use the remote starter(aftermarket) it turns on flawlessly then I insert the key, turn it and drive away, thats the most reliable way to turn on my car hence I'm already used to starting my car that way bc of that problem. I thought maybe it could be a bad ignition switch relay? HELP
TCreatorO 8 months ago
@TCreatorO I would say that the remote start or security system is at fault if it only starts with the remote, it probably needs to see a signal from the key fob in order to run, you may just have to live with it.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy ooh.... thanks for answering, I wanted to tell you that now that its been warm for a while, for the last week I tried the key and it has been working almost flawlessly too, and I asked one of the techs at work and he has owned hondas like forever, and he told me that it could be that I need a new main relay? and to get an original from honda, that they go bad on hondas quite often. so I might give that a try before I try yanking out the remote starter/keyless entry
TCreatorO 8 months ago
I love the beginning of this Airtex tour. But if I'm diagnosing a fuel pump, and I don't hear it run first off, I'm not going to then hook up a pressure tester... Kinda redundant. I'll kick the fuel tank a few times, then look at power and ground circuits.
beefystik 8 months ago
Could it be the relay issue if the fuel pump is not humming/buzzing.
Timx4 8 months ago
@Timx4 Yes, the relay is what controls the current to the pump.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
I love having a fpr with a liquid fill gauge on my car. :)
500hpb20 8 months ago
@500hpb20 Fancy but functional, I like it.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
I was always taught to check fuses with a test light or multi-meter.
I enjoy your video's...Good job.
I've been a Master certified Toyota/Lexus tech for 20+years.
07hdflht 8 months ago
@07hdflht I like to test them that way myself, in fact I often use my trusty power probe because you are correct that a fuse can look good and still be bad. The idea behind it was to encourage people to check the fuse first as it could be a very simple fix. Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
YES! I Found it!
I can tell this is the latest video by the # of views lol.
I'd think it would be pretty hard to do step 1 if your in a noisy enviroment. But steps 2 -4 I found invaluble. That fuel pressure gage is makes it butt loads easier too.
Michiganborn1969 8 months ago
@Michiganborn1969 Yes evidence is always a good thing, much better than guessing. Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
I know this doesn't have anything to do with fuel pumps but...I have a 2002 subaru forester and I've been experiencing some engine surging...but only when the interior fan is on. It'll make this strange humming noise that comes and goes, and the rpm will drop by 2 or 3 hundred. It only does this when the fan is on. I'm kind of scratching my head over this one. Any ideas?
BHownsall 8 months ago
@BHownsall Hard to say really, it could be a bad blower putting too much of an electrical load on the system or a lose belt on the alternator. I really don't know if I'm honest.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
@BHownsall Bad ground somewhere or corroded positive battery cables (most likely positive). This is more an electrical than a fan problem IMO.
peelout40 8 months ago
@BHownsall I'm curious if your blend door is controlled by vacuum or solenoids (electrical). Any idea man?
beefystik 8 months ago
Another great video! I really like this one and the WELLS video/tour.
briansmobile1 8 months ago 4
@briansmobile1 I have 4 more of these that cover this facility, just waiting for approval and they will be out. Good to see you in the comments.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
Eric, another great vid, but one more thing to check if there is voltage at the fuel pump connector with a test 12 volt test light, and if the light appears dim the pump may still be good, but the wiring may have corrosion somewhere causing high resistance. Kinda rare but is something to check out. This pump in the video seemed DOA.
SuperTech123451 9 months ago
@SuperTech123451 That's what we meant by you need to go to the pump next. I hope to make a part 2 of this video at some point covering that very thing. Thanks for the input and for your comment.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
@SuperTech123451 That's a very good point.
spelunkerd 8 months ago
I have a 1992 Honda prelude and I have a start up problem but eventually start after turning the car for a while. It starts alot faster when its warm outside is this a fuel pressure problem?
scewologist 9 months ago
@scewologist Possibly, you might want to check the fuel pressure when the problem occurs. You can also try turning the key to run a couple of times before you crank the engine, if it starts then it could be the check valve in the fuel pump.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
Another brilliant video, Eric. This actually happened to me while I was on vacation with no tools. The local general mechanic helped me out, spent about 90 minutes figuring out what the problem was, and charged me $20 when it turned out to be a fuse. I think he was feeling a little sheepish when he took so long to come to the diagnosis, but he was such a great guy. Salt of the earth. I did my best to help him out when he came to me years later with a problem in my area.
spelunkerd 9 months ago
@spelunkerd It's nice to know those guys are out there helping to keep public opinion about mechanics on the positive side. Thanks for the comment.
EricTheCarGuy 8 months ago
@EricTheCarGuy As in many areas, the public is quick to assume the worst about people in a position of power. But often the reality is much more innocent. The public don't seem to understand how difficult it can be to make an accurate diagnosis. So, time spent doing that is undervalued. The shop funds that time with income obtained from markup on parts, creating an imbalance that isn't good for anybody.
spelunkerd 8 months ago
If you are stuck somewhere with a bad fuel pump and don't want to pay for a tow. You can try beating the bottom of the tank (beat hard) either with the key on or with someone else cranking while you are beating with a hammer or some other heavy object.
I have gotten lots of pick up trucks back to the shop with out needing a tow. It doesn't always work but is something worth trying to get you home or to the nearest shop.
towhook 9 months ago