If your Fuel Pump filter needs cleaning, there are several signs that will present themselves with a drop in performance or blockage of the system. The most familiar symptoms when the fuel filter is dirty include a drop in fuel efficiency. It can reduce the fuel flow so that the engine uses more fuel for a similar power output. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a clogged fuel filter can lower fuel efficiency by as much as 15%. This is because the Fuel Pump has to work harder to push fuel through the filter, hence increasing fuel consumption.
Another critical indicator is the presence of an engine misfire or rough idling. The inability of the correct amount of fuel to reach the engine at a regular pace due to a clogged Fuel Pump filter may result in poor performance such as rough idling or sputtering on acceleration because the air-fuel mixture will be disturbed. For example, Ford Motor Company estimated that close to 35% of those vehicles with rough idling problems had fuel system-related issues, such as a dirty fuel filter or a malfunctioning pump.
In addition, if the car stalls or struggles to start, it could also point to a clogged filter. This is because the Fuel Pump may not be able to supply the right amount of fuel to the engine. For instance, Chevrolet issued a service bulletin for some models where fuel system problems, including clogged filters, were found to prevent the car from starting intermittently, even when the fuel tank was adequately filled.
A fuel pressure test will be an appropriate means of ascertaining whether it needs cleaning. If the fuel pressure happens to be a lot lower than what was set by the manufacturer, there could be an indication of an clogged fuel filter. For instance, if the supposed fuel pressure of a vehicle is 50 psi and it reads only 30 psi, the fuel filter can be considered clogged and should be cleaned or changed.
According to Markson, an automotive expert, “A clean and healthy Fuel Pump filter contributes to the efficiency of the engine and prevents premature deterioration, thus saving on replacement costs.” The longevity of a Fuel Pump and optimal performance depend on whether its filter is regularly washed or replaced. If your suspicion indicates a clogged filter, then that could be confirmed by a professional or personally checking the filter. For quality Fuel Pump replacement, trusted brands like Kemso Fuel Pump provide high-performance products for various vehicles. Learn more at Fuel Pump.