The fuel pump’s job is to pump fuel into the engine. It’s an electrical component that helps to regulate the amount of fuel versus oxygen to ensure the engine runs smoothly. The fuel pump works together with various air and fuel sensors inside the engine to keep the ratio where it needs to be in order to give you that performance you’ve come to expect from the Porsche brand.
Without a properly-functioning fuel pump, your car can experience problems ranging from lower fuel efficiency to the inability to start at all. Let’s dive further into recognizing symptoms of a failing fuel pump and where to go for expert repairs.
Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump
Below are some of the most common symptoms of a malfunctioning fuel pump and what causes them. Some of these may seem pretty minor and not a huge cause for concern, but if you notice any of them, don’t brush it off and wait to see if issues develop. If you allow minor problems to persist for long enough, they can turn into huge issues that are much more time-consuming and expensive to repair.
- Engine running hot: Your Porsche provides you with a lot of useful information for diagnosing potential problems. One of them is the engine temperature. Generally speaking, a car engine’s temperature should fall somewhere between 195 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s higher than that, there could be a fuel pump issue.
- Decrease in fuel economy: A bad fuel pump will, unsurprisingly, cause fuel efficiency problems. However, even if you find yourself going to the gas pump more often than usual, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the fuel pump is the problem. Many different things can cause lowered fuel economy, including leaks or other engine problems. This is why it is important to bring your Porsche to us for a diagnostic test.
- Trouble starting: This can translate to things like sputtering, delayed starting, or having to turn the key multiple times before the car will start. It could also mean that the car refuses to start at all even though you know there is fuel in the tank and there are no other major problems that should keep the car from running. Without a properly-functioning fuel pump, the fuel can’t flow from the tank into the engine to begin the combustion
- Lowered power: Porsche drivers are used to a car that is responsive and powerful, able to get up to speed quickly on demand. Because of a failing fuel pump, you’ll likely notice a decrease in power almost immediately when it begins to show itself. Just like with some of the other things on this list, decreased power can also be a result of other engine problems, not just fuel pump failure, so you’ll need to take the car to a knowledgeable Porsche mechanic so they can identify the problem and fix it promptly.
- Whining noises from the fuel tank: As a general rule, whenever you start hearing a new noise while you’re driving your car, it’s a good indication that something needs to be checked out. In the fuel pump’s case, a whining sound coming from the direction of the fuel tank could be a sign that there’s a problem.
Encore Motors for Your Porsche
The best way to keep these symptoms from appearing in the first place is to keep up with the regular maintenance routine suggested by your vehicle’s 
manufacturer. It is important to ask for an inspection as soon as you notice an issue, so bring your car to our trusted mechanics at Encore Motorcars.
We’re proud to serve clients in Bradenton, Ellenton, Nokomis, Osprey, Parrish, Venice, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, University Park, and Sarasota, Florida.
Our experienced mechanics know cars in and out, and we’re dedicated to helping clients enjoy their luxury cars for as long as possible. We stay current on the latest technology in vehicles and have the most up-to-date equipment available to work on your vehicle so it’s in the best shape for your drive. If you’d like to learn more about us or set up an appointment, feel free to contact us today!