Can a fuel pump be repaired? Well, Yes but each of them will determine on how bad the damage and what type fuel pump. Most of the time it is cheaper and just more efficient to go ahead get a brand new pump instead. Because the job of fuel pumps is to deliver gasoline from the tank directly into your engine, when they fail one or more symptoms may soon begin manifesting in how you drive. A 2022 study by AAA found that about two-thirds of all fuel pump failures stem from the direct wear and tear on internal components, with a typical service life ranging anywhere between 100,000 to 150,000 miles.
There are two types of fuel pumps, the mechanical and electric ones. While a mechanical fuel pump, as is common in older cars can sometimes be repaired (by replacing the diaphragm or valves for example), most of the time replacement remains your best option. Due to the relatively low cost of these parts, you may end up paying anywhere between $50 and $200 for this repair when considering labor rates and part availability. Modern vehicles typically employ electric fuel pumps and they have sealed designs, which makes them more difficult to repair in most cases. When the electric motor in a pump malfunctions, as it often will due to harsh handling environment of petrochemical plants where so much work is manual and heavy lifting common (if not standard practice), repair becomes impractical relatively soon after installation, making replacement the more economical decision. Electric fuel pump replacement usually runs between $400 to $600, depending on the vehicle.make and model.
Fuel relay or electrical connection problems can also cause fuel pump issues, but these are repairs that do not necessitate replacing the entire unit. A Relay, such as the above fuel pump relay which controls power to it can cost between $30 – 60 to replace. Despite the chances being good, one may opt not to buy a new fuel pump and replace components such as brushes in case of an electric motor that is faulty. However if gears or bearings inside become damaged internally the repair cost can be greater than buying a fresh unit
To paraphrase Elon Musk, if you're going to deliver fuel pump repair — or locate a new home for life on another planet — it has got to be priced occasion-appropriately relative toward the existing alternatives. After all, a pump can last for years longer following repair work — but it only makes sense if the price and effort match the result. In most instances, the mechanics will suggest replacing the entire pump besides as fuel pumps are manufactured to be more effective and durable now with warranties on new replacements up to 12k miles or one year.
If repair is in mind, one must measure the cost versus benefit of labor and parts as well as potential for future failures. It may save some money today to get a pump rebuilt, but beware its life span will then depend on the appropriateness of other mods like an at least moderately clean and free-flowing fuel system beforehand. New pumps can also be easier to find/purchase on platforms like fuel pump.