How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Fuel Pump?
Your vehicle’s fuel pump is critical to its operation. Without a properly working fuel pump, your vehicle may not be able to start or run. In this piece, we will overview what you need to know about replacing bad fuel pumps and lay out the costs you should expect. We won't make you wait! Our research shows that the approximate cost to replace the fuel pump in a modern mainstream automobile is between $750 and $1,300.
Before We Go Too Far - Know About This Massive Fuel Pump Recall Program!
Over the past few years, many popular brands have suffered from fuel pump failures caused by defective parts made by Denso. Brands involved include Toyota, Honda, Ford, Mitsubishi, and Subaru. Because the number of vehicles included in the fiasco is massive, we suggest that you check out NHTSA’s recall website if you suspect you have a bad fuel pump. Maybe you will hit the lottery and find out it is covered under warranty. We also strongly suggest you retain your receipt and shop paperwork in case a settlement is later reached with impacted owners.
What is a Fuel Pump?
Your car uses a small electric fuel pump to move the fuel from your tank to your engine. The pump itself is usually located inside your fuel tank. That sounds dangerous, right? Well, it isn’t. Cars almost never blow up due to fuel pumps gone bad. Almost. The pump pushes fuel to your engine’s fuel injection system and intake manifold under very high pressure. If you own a vintage or older classic car, be aware that the fuel pump may be of a different design located in the engine bay, not inside the fuel tank.
How Do I Know If My Fuel Pump Is Going Bad?
Symptoms of a bad fuel pump include pretty much what you might expect. Here’s a top-down list of ways you may discover your fuel pump is kaputz:
- Your mechanic just said to you, “Hey, you need a new fuel pump.”
- A warning on your dashboard just illuminated. Usually, a check engine light.
- Your car won't start.
- Your car runs rough.
- You hear an unsettling noise from the rear or middle of your car that sounds suspiciously like the death scream of a fuel pump.
- You smell gas when you should not. (This one is very rare but also very serious.)
Why Do Fuel Pumps Die? Can I Take Action to Prevent a Failure?
Fuel pumps are designed to last (until the day after your warranty expires or) the life of your car. Your automaker is so confident the pump won't quit that they actually stick it up inside your gas tank, where accessing it is a real drag. Bad fuel pumps are usually caused by defects in the part itself, not something you can control. There is no maintenance required or possible to prolong the life of your car’s fuel tank short of using proper fuel in the car.
How is a Fuel Pump Replaced?
The simple answer is a mechanic swaps it out for a new one. The longer answer starts with all your fuel needs to be removed from your fuel tank. That’s no fun. The fuel tank access to the pump also may be under your rear seats or trunk. You know the repair tab is going to sting when the mechanic needs to remove interior parts just to get to the root of the issue.
Can My Fuel Pump Be Fixed, Rather Than Replaced?
No, your fuel pump will be replaced if it shows any signs of improper operation. It is not practical for your mechanic to try to repair the part itself.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Fuel Pump?
Fuel pumps themselves are not that expensive. Around $300 to $500 is typical for the replacement part. However, the labor to replace a fuel pump is also about that costly, or more. If you use a dealer and the vehicle is not under warranty, you will usually pay the most. If you own a luxury car, plan to pay more as well.
We researched the cost of replacing a fuel pump in a mainstream modern vehicle and found that the price can range from about $750 to about $1,300.
Mechanics also suggest that you may have some related work needed, such as a new fuel filter and possibly parts of your fuel tank assembly in addition to the pump itself. This can add cost.
Who Can Replace My Fuel Pump?
Any qualified mechanic operating in a garage can replace your fuel pump. This is not a job to hand off to a tire or muffler chain. We suggest an experienced mechanic or your dealer.
Can I Buy My Own Parts and Replace a Fuel Pump Myself?
You can replace your own fuel pump if you have the space, tools, acumen, and parts you need. However, do you really want to deal with high-pressure fuel lines and the transfer of gallons of gasoline in your backyard? If you do, it is best to have a pal on hand with a fire extinguisher and phone to help you if it all goes bad.
We strongly urge you to use a pro for this job. They are much better prepared to call 911 and report themselves on fire since they’ve done it before. Kidding aside, this is a job you want to be done in a proper garage.
Read more on Owning a Car here.
