Fuel System Service & Repair
When you open the door to your car and sit in the driver’s seat, one of the first things you’ll likely do is turn the ignition over. While the act of starting your car may seem commonplace, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than simply the turning of a key.
Not only does your car need a lot of complex parts working together to start, but it needs one component that’s vital to the functionality of an internal combustion engine: fuel. Whether you call it fuel, gasoline, or petrol, this combustible substance goes through an intricate network of systems in order to reach the cylinders in your engine and propel your car in motion.
Because the fuel system of your ride has a lot of moving parts, there are many elements that can wear down over time and cause your vehicle to run abnormally or worse—not run at all. At Kennedy Transmission, our certified technicians are experts in fuel system functionality, diagnosing and repairing fuel pumps, injectors, and more to keep your car running smoothly and safely every day of the week.
Below, our team has put together a short guide on how standard fuel systems work, what happens when a fuel pump goes out, and how we can fix them for you.
How Fuel Systems Work
The fuel system in your car or truck works with the rest of your engine control system to make sure you’re getting the most out of your vehicle, all while cutting down on emissions. While it may seem like it only takes putting gas in your vehicle, there’s an entire system that works together to get it to run properly and efficiently.
Fuel Tank
The fuel tank of your vehicle is where it all starts. This is where the gasoline goes when you fill up at a gas station.
Fuel Pump
Most newer vehicles have a fuel pump, which is typically located inside the fuel tank. If you own an older vehicle, the fuel pump will be attached to the engine or on the frame rail between the tank and the engine. Just like it sounds, this mechanism pumps fuel to the engine.
Fuel Filter
This filters out dirt from the fuel before it travels to the engine. Clean fuel is essential to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
Fuel Injectors
This electrical valve lets fuel into the engine and is open and closed with electrical signals.
Pro Tip: Higher grade gasoline won’t necessarily get you better gas mileage or car performance. Your vehicle will run efficiently on Regular gasoline unless it is specifically recommended for your vehicle. Check with your vehicle’s manufacturer to see if they recommend filling up with Super or Premium gasoline.
Signs of a Damaged Fuel System
Your vehicle’s fuel system’s repair and service needs are determined by several factors that contribute to its wear and tear. Some of these include the quality of fuel used in your automobile, the age of your car or truck, mileage, driving conditions, and maintenance history.
Because your fuel system is such a vital part of your vehicle’s dependability, it’s important to know when something may be wrong. And one of the most important things to watch out for is a sign that your fuel pump is going out.
What Happens When a Fuel Pump Goes Out
Your fuel pump is one of the most common elements of your fuel system to breakdown. Over time, this mechanism simply wears out due to being in constant motion while your vehicle is running. Luckily, our technicians are here to help you recognize when your fuel pump is bad.
A few warning signs to tell if your fuel pump is bad include:
- A gasoline smell
- Decreased fuel economy
- Loud whining noise from fuel tank
- Difficulty starting your vehicle
- “Check Engine” light on dashboard
- Stalling while driving
Pro Tip: Keeping your fuel tank under quarter-full can cause premature damage to your fuel pump. Make sure you keep a quarter-tank of gasoline or more in your car at all times.
Get Your Fuel System Repaired at Kennedy Transmission
At Kennedy Transmission, the certified mechanics in our auto repair shops are expertly trained in diagnosing and repairing any issues with your fuel system. Our services include fuel filter and pump installation, fuel injector testing and replacement, fuel tank cleaning and removal, and much more! Whatever your fuel system problem may be, bring your car or truck to the auto repair experts in Minneapolis for complete fuel system repair services. Use our shop locator to find a Kennedy Transmission near you!ear you!
