How long does the fuel pump relay last?
Auto repair

How long does the fuel pump relay last?

The fuel pump is one of the most used parts of any car. Every time the car is started and running, the fuel pump must be running. There are many parts that help a fuel pump do the job it was designed to do. Fuel…

The fuel pump is one of the most used parts of any car. Every time the car is started and running, the fuel pump must be running. There are many parts that help a fuel pump do the job it was designed to do. The fuel pump relay helps control the amount of electrical current supplied to the fuel pump. When the car is started, the fuel pump relay sends out the amount of electricity needed to turn on the pump and start the combustion process. Every time the car is started and running, the fuel pump relay must energize in order for the fuel pump to work the way it's supposed to.

Over time, the fuel pump relay may begin to show signs of wear and will need to be replaced. The fuel pump relay is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, but due to the debilitating conditions it is subjected to, it usually won't last that long. Among the most commonly damaged parts of a fuel pump relay are the coil and contact points. Usually, these parts of the relay begin to oxidize and rust over time. The fuel pump relay is usually not checked during routine maintenance and only comes to attention when there is a problem with it. Once the problem is brought forward, it will need to be replaced by a professional mechanic.

Like any other part of a car's fuel system, the relay will cause a lot of problems if it doesn't work properly. Not having the right amount of electrical current flowing to the fuel pump will lead to problems that can damage the vehicle.

Here are a few things you may notice when it's time to repair the fuel pump relay:

  • Engine will spin when trying to start but will not run
  • The car does not want to start
  • Car stalls when you stop it
  • Car stalls after short run

Replacing the fuel pump relay is a job best left to the professionals due to the level of complexity. Trying to master this installation process without experience can lead to big problems and damage to the car.

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