A functional fuel pump is the most basic requirement for direct effect on time taken to start the car engine as it provides the necessary fuel pressure and flow to the engine when the ignition is turned on. Many fuel injected vehicles are required to reach an ideal pressure (typically 40 PSI) within the fuel system for the engine to start properly. In a properly functioning system, it will generate these pressures quickly, but in the case of a bad or failing fuel pump, this pressure is slow to build, resulting in either extended crank times or the inability for the engine to fire up at all. That delay can be as long as 2 to 5 seconds when starting, a lifetime to someone used to having their fuel in place and on time.
Older fuel pumps, usually ones with over 100,000 miles, simply lose efficiency, usually because the internals—the motor or bearings—aren't able to quickly keep up the required pressure. The loss of efficiency not only results in a longer time taken to get the car going but also adds to the strain on both the battery and starter motor. A paper with AAA (American Automobile Association) states that 20% of calls for roadside assistance are because of starting issues caused by pump-related problems, an indication that a good pump is crucial for consistent performance.
‘Cold has yet another impact on start-time delays with lower temperatures causing the fuel become more viscous and be tougher for the pump to deliver at the pressure needed,’ said the engine expert. If the fuel pump has a hard time compensating, start times can add up to as much as 50 percent in locations that experience winter temperatures below 32 ° F (0 ° C). It is an especially common problem on older models where the pump lacks the inherent power to compensate for the additional resistance from cold, thickened gas.
As our friend and fuel pump expert Ed China is fond of saying, "A great start is the foundation of every drive." When a vehicle starts promptly, less strain is placed on all starting components, allowing them to work consistently and reliably, as well. This is where faulty pumps become annoying, you experience frustration and uncertainty each time you turn the key.
Routine maintenance coupled with a high efficiency pump like those manufactured by Fuel Pump helps ensure faster start ups in challenging conditions. While annual convenience is a benefit, dependable fuel delivery is also key to a smooth startup and the health of other starting system parts.