How to Start a Car with a Bad Fuel Pump: Tips and Tricks

Having a car with a bad fuel pump can be a frustrating experience, leaving you stranded and unsure of what to do next. However, with a few tips and tricks, you can potentially start a car with a bad fuel pump and running again temporarily until you’re able to address the underlying issue. In this guide, we’ll explore some methods to help you start a car with a faulty fuel pump, ensuring you’re not left stranded on the side of the road.

Check Your Fuel Level

The first step in troubleshooting a potential fuel pump issue is to ensure that your vehicle has an adequate amount of fuel. Sometimes, a low fuel level can mimic symptoms of a failing fuel pump. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify that your fuel gauge indicates a sufficient level before proceeding with further diagnostics.

Additionally, it’s essential to inspect the quality of the fuel in your tank. Contaminated or old fuel can exacerbate problems with a faulty fuel pump. If you suspect that your fuel may be contaminated, consider draining the tank and refilling it with fresh, clean fuel.

Moreover, while checking the fuel level, take note of any unusual odors emanating from the fuel tank or fuel lines. A strong smell of gasoline could indicate a leak in the fuel system, which can contribute to fuel pump issues. Addressing any leaks promptly is vital for both safety and maintaining the integrity of your vehicle’s fuel system.

If you’ve determined that your fuel level is sufficient and there are no signs of contamination or leaks, you can proceed with additional diagnostic steps to pinpoint the source of the problem. However, if you’re uncertain about the condition of your fuel system or lack the necessary expertise to diagnose the issue, it’s best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or automotive technician. They can conduct a thorough inspection and perform diagnostic tests to identify any underlying issues with your fuel pump or related components.

Listen for the Fuel Pump Prime

When you turn the ignition key to the “on” position (without starting the engine), you should hear a faint whirring noise coming from the fuel tank. This sound indicates that the fuel pump is priming the fuel system. If you don’t hear this noise, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning fuel pump.

Try Starting the Car Multiple Times: Start a Car with a Bad Fuel Pump

If your car fails to start on the first attempt, don’t lose hope. Sometimes, a failing fuel pump may still provide enough pressure to start the engine intermittently. Therefore, it’s worth trying to start the car multiple times in succession to see if it eventually starts.

When attempting multiple starts, pay close attention to any changes in engine behavior or sounds. Listen for any sputtering or coughing noises, which could indicate that fuel is reaching the engine but not in sufficient quantities for sustained operation. Additionally, monitor the dashboard lights for any warning indicators related to the fuel system, such as a check engine light or low fuel pressure warning.

If the car shows signs of starting but struggles to stay running, it may be helpful to give the accelerator pedal a gentle tap while cranking the engine. This action can sometimes stimulate fuel flow and help overcome minor obstructions or restrictions within the fuel system.

However, it’s essential to exercise caution and avoid excessive cranking attempts, as this can drain the battery and potentially cause damage to the starter motor or other components. If the car still refuses to start after several attempts, it’s best to move on to other diagnostic methods or seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or automotive technician.

Use Starting Fluid

Starting fluid, also known as ether, can be sprayed into the air intake or throttle body of your engine to help initiate combustion. While this method is not recommended for long-term use, it can be effective in starting a car with a bad fuel pump. Be cautious not to overuse starting fluid, as it can cause engine damage if used excessively.

Tap the Fuel Tank

Believe it or not, giving the fuel tank a firm tap with a rubber mallet or your hand can sometimes jolt a failing fuel pump into action. The idea is to dislodge any debris or obstructions that may be hindering the pump’s operation. While this method isn’t guaranteed to work, it’s worth a try if you’re in a pinch.

Check for Fuel Pump Relay Issues

In some cases, the problem may not lie with the fuel pump itself but rather with the fuel pump relay. The fuel pump relay is responsible for controlling the power supply to the fuel pump, and if it malfunctions, it can prevent the fuel pump from receiving the necessary voltage to operate effectively.

To check for fuel pump relay issues, locate the relay in your vehicle’s fuse box or relay panel. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a repair manual for the exact location and identification of the fuel pump relay. Once you’ve located the relay, you can perform a simple diagnostic test to determine if it’s functioning correctly.

One common method for testing a relay is to swap it with a known-working relay of the same type within the fuse box. For example, if your vehicle has identical relays for the fuel pump and another accessory, such as the horn or headlights, you can swap them and attempt to start the car. If the car starts with the swapped relay in place, it’s likely that the original fuel pump relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Additionally, you can use a multimeter to test the continuity and voltage of the fuel pump relay. With the relay removed from the fuse box, use the multimeter to check for continuity between the relay terminals as you energize and de-energize the relay coil. You should also measure the voltage across the relay contacts to ensure that it’s receiving the proper voltage from the vehicle’s electrical system.

If the fuel pump relay tests indicate a malfunction, replace the relay with a new one of the same type and specification. Ensure that the replacement relay is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model to avoid compatibility issues.

Jumpstart the Car

If your car has a manual transmission, you may be able to jumpstart it by rolling it downhill and popping the clutch in second or third gear. This method relies on the vehicle’s momentum to turn the engine over, bypassing the need for the fuel pump momentarily. Keep in mind that this technique may not work for all vehicles or situations.

Seek Professional Help

While the above methods may help you temporarily start a car with a bad fuel pump, they are not long-term solutions. It’s essential to address the underlying issue promptly to avoid further damage to your vehicle. If you’re unable to start your car or suspect a problem with the fuel pump, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or automotive technician.

Conclusion: Start a Car with a Bad Fuel Pump

Dealing with a car that has a bad fuel pump can be a challenging and stressful situation. However, by following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you may be able to get your vehicle up and running temporarily until you can address the root cause of the problem. Remember to exercise caution when attempting any DIY fixes and always prioritize safety. If you’re unable to start your car or suspect a fuel pump issue, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to ensure your vehicle’s reliability and safety on the road.

Would you like to know more about car failure solutions? Check our Maintenance and Repair section of the blog.