If you’ve ever had a bad fuel pump, you know how frustrating it can be to start your car. Without fuel, your engine won’t turn over, and you’re left stranded. However, there are a few tricks you can try to start your car with a bad fuel pump.
Check the Fuel Pump Fuse
The first thing you should check when your car won’t start is the fuel pump fuse. The fuse protects the fuel pump from electrical surges, and if it’s blown, your fuel pump won’t work. To check the fuse, consult your car’s owner’s manual to find the fuse box. Once you locate the fuse box, find the fuse labeled for the fuel pump and check if it’s blown. If it is, replace the fuse and try starting your car again.
Use Starting Fluid
Another trick to try is using starting fluid. Starting fluid is a highly flammable spray that can help start your engine. It works by providing a temporary source of fuel to the engine, allowing it to start. However, be careful when using starting fluid, as it’s highly flammable and can be dangerous if not used properly. To use starting fluid, remove the air filter and spray the fluid into the intake manifold. Then, try starting your car.
Jumpstart Your Car
If your battery is weak, jumpstarting your car can help start it even with a bad fuel pump. You can jumpstart your car using jumper cables and a second car with a charged battery. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive terminal on both batteries and the black negative (-) cable to the negative terminal on the charged battery and a grounded metal surface on the dead battery. Then, try starting your car.
Replace the Fuel Pump Relay
If your fuel pump relay is faulty, your fuel pump won’t work. The fuel pump relay is responsible for sending power to the fuel pump, and if it’s not working, your fuel pump won’t receive power. To check the fuel pump relay, consult your car’s owner’s manual to find the location of the relay. Once you locate the relay, remove it and inspect it for damage. If it’s damaged, replace the relay and try starting your car again.
Conclusion
While a bad fuel pump can be frustrating, there are a few tricks you can try to start your car. Check the fuel pump fuse, use starting fluid, jumpstart your car, or replace the fuel pump relay. If none of these tricks work, you may need to have your car towed to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of starting your car even with a bad fuel pump.
