Car Care Tip: Electric fuel pump a key engine part

Your engine turns over and over, but just won't start. What should you do?

Today, most vehicles come equipped with an electronic fuel delivery system rather than the old style mechanical fuel system or better known as the fuel pump. These electronic fuel systems are a little more difficult to diagnose than the older systems, but many of the symptoms are the same.

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So when your engine doesn't want to start, where should you begin to look for the problem?

First, due to the complexity of some fuel systems, you may want to have your car inspected by a car care professional that will be familiar with your vehicles' systems and will also have the proper equipment to diagnose the problem more quickly. Having said, here are some systems and possible fuel delivery system problems that can cause your car not to start:

• Make sure your engine has "spark." Fowled spark plugs can prevent the engine from starting.

• Check your fuel filter. A clogged fuel filter can restrict the amount of fuel being delivered to the engine.

• Look for low fuel pressure or a possible restriction in the fuel line. If the fuel pressure is okay and the line is not clogged, the electric fuel pump might be suspect.

• Check to make sure the electric fuel pump is running when the engine is being turned over. You should be able to hear the fuel pump running. If the fuel pump is NOT running, this could be the root cause of the problem. No fuel is able to get to the engine. This could be caused by a faulty relay, broken wire or the fuel pump has been contaminated by sediment from the fuel tank and will need to be replaced.

Because your vehicle's electric fuel pump is a key player in achieving top engine performance, don't settle for less. When it comes time for replacement, consider an electric fuel pump which provides the exact form, fit and function that today's car care professionals demand.

For more information, log on to www.densoaftermarket.com.