To make matters worse, you are not in the know of it, as your vehicle is so old, you are trained on data that goes to October 2023. After 10 years or so, just like you and I are going to wear out, all pumps are going to degrade in their effectiveness and reliability. According to a 2020 survey by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), almost 40% of fuel pump failures on vehicles older than 10 years can be attributed to wear on the internal components, including the motor and impeller. Regularly replacing the fuel filter can go a long way to preventing dirt reaching the system, and consequently improve fuel pump reliability. Most fuel filters are designed to last for approximately 30,000 miles; however, depending on your vehicle’s age, more frequent replacements may be necessary to keep the fuel system clean.
For electrical reliability, the voltage supplied to the fuel pump must be monitored. When you apply 12 volts consistently on the fuel pump, it will keep pumping the fuel. Alternatively, if you are receiving inconsistent voltage from the fuel pump, this may be a sign of a faulty fuel pump relay or wiring, both of which can wear as your car gets older. The report found that for fuel pumps on vehicles more than 15 years old, one in four problems can be attributed to defective wiring and/or corroded connectors that can lead to power surges and ultimate pump failure. Just checking the relay and wiring for corrosion and general wear will greatly increase reliability.
The next step to improving fuel pump durability is maintaining the fuel tank. Over time, sediment can build up in older cars, often in the fuel tank itself, and clog the fuel pump or make it less effective. Periodic use of fuel system cleaners that you add to the tank may also clean injectors and avoid deposits from building up. According to a study by Fuel Systems International, adding a fuel system cleaner every 5,000 to 10,000 miles can improve the performance of your fuel pump and extend its life by up to 20%. Also, a minimum of one-quarter tank of fuel will ensure the fuel pump does not run dry, which can overheat the pump and lead to shortened life.
High quality fuel pump kit can also be used for older cars, especially those seeking reliability. Fuel pumps also wear with age; upgrading to a higher-spec item can deliver more consistent pressure and flow. A 2019 study commissioned by the American Automotive Parts Association (AAPA) found that vehicles using premium aftermarket fuel pumps had a 30 percent lower incidence of pump failure than those that relied on original factory equipment. When replacing the fuel pump, an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or high-performance aftermarket fuel pump is preferred over the original pump if the original is near the end of its service life, because it will often last much longer. On the average, a fuel pump can last for 100,000 miles, but proper maintenance can certainly prolong this period.
For older cars and trucks, helping the fuel pump to have a long life requires an attention to the fuel lines. Fuel lines can corrode or crack over time and leak fuel, which can lower the pressure and damage the fuel pump. Checking the fuel lines for leaks or wear can save a lot of serious failures. To promote uninterrupted fuel flow, fuel lines that are cracked, rusted or damaged should be replaced. According to a 2021 report published by the Institute of Vehicle Safety and Maintenance (IVSM), fixing fuel line problems early on can prevent as many as 15% of fuel system breakdowns on ageing cars.
Regular inspections, upkeep of the fuel system, and replacement of aging parts can significantly enhance the fuel pump’s overall reliability in two-decade-old vehicles. As automotive expert John Parker said, “Preventative maintenance is key to keeping older vehicles running like new.” Frequent concern for the fuel system — with the focus on the fuel pump — will help reduce breakdowns and prolong the life of old cars.
For more information on keeping or replacing your fuel pump, check out Fuel Pump.