Can a Fuel Pump Failure Cause Engine Misfires?

Yes, a fuel pump failure can cause an engine to misfire. The main role of the fuel pump is to supply fuel to the engine at the right pressure. In newer cars, the fuel pressure ranges between 40 and 60 PSI, depending on the model. In cases where the fuel pump fails to deliver the right amount of fuel or is unable to keep up with the pressure, this results in fuel starvation to the engine. This is the point when it becomes over-lean, and engine misfire occurs. According to estimates by the U.S. Department of Transportation, 10% of all engine misfire problems are related to malfunctioning fuel delivery systems, which also include faulty fuel pumps.

It can happen that misfires occur simply because the engine does not get enough fuel to maintain smooth combustion. For example, if the fuel pump output falls below what is required, the engine may misfire at high speeds or under heavy load, such as during acceleration or driving uphill. It can also cause stalling or rough idling. According to a study conducted by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), approximately 30% of motorists reported cases of engine misfires due to faulty fuel delivery, which included failed fuel pumps.

Furthermore, when the fuel pump starts to fail, it can also be prone to letting contaminants or air into the fuel system. When this happens, combustion would not be efficient enough anymore, leading to more occurrences of misfires. SAE reports that poor quality fuel and failure of fuel pumps together are responsible for up to 15 percent of engine performance-related complaints, including misfires.

Most fuel pump failures are misdiagnosed when it occurs, since symptoms such as rough idling or stuttering of the engine are usually mistakenly attributed to failures of the spark plugs or ignition coil. In most cases, however, the problem is normally with the fuel pump, which cannot maintain a constant fuel pressure. If you suspect fuel pump failure as the cause of engine misfires, it is critical that you check your Fuel Pump as soon as possible.

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