Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Pump Problems [Symptoms and Fixes]
Hard starting, whining noises, and engine performance issues are some common signs of a failing fuel pump in a Volkswagen Jetta.
Keep reading to learn about the signs of a failing fuel pump in a Volkswagen Jetta and how to go about it.
10 Signs Your Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Pump is Bad
1. Whining Noise
A loud howl or whine from your Volkswagen Jetta is one of the first signs of fuel pump problems. Healthy fuel pumps produce quiet hums during normal operation.
However, a worn-out or old fuel pump produces an excessively loud whine, which is noticeable when you start your Jetta or begin to accelerate.
The noise may indicate contaminated fuel within the system, a damaged pump, or insufficient fuel. There is a disconnection between the engine and your fuel pump.
Get your Volkswagen Jetta to an auto repair shop, and the mechanic will check to see what is wrong. A worn or old fuel pump should be replaced.
2. Car Won’t Start
If you find it difficult to start your Volkswagen Jetta, a problematic fuel pump may be responsible for it.
Fuel pumps are designed to constantly run when the ignition is switched on, so they can weaken and wear out over time.
A weak fuel pump may still be capable of functioning as designed. But your Jetta may experience difficulty starting due to a lack of significant pressure.
Weak fuel pumps cause vehicles to take more cranks than usual to start. Severe cases will cause your Jetta to require multiple turns of its key before starting.
Take note that you may also experience difficulty starting your Volkswagen Jetta if the temperature sensor, via which the cooling liquid runs, has oil on its exterior. It could be dirty due to several reasons.
Removing the connector, which has 4 pins, cleaning it, re-installing it, and then buying a new temperature sensor can solve the problem.
You may not know this since you’re not a mechanic. So, get your Volkswagen Jetta to your mechanic for proper diagnostics. If your fuel pump is weak or worn out, replace it immediately with a new unit.
3. Poor Acceleration and Fuel Efficiency
A defective fuel pump will boost the engine’s air, fuel ratio and pressure.
If you spend more money on refueling than usual or nearly always feel as if you are pressing the accelerator gas pedal all the way to the floorboard, it is a sign that your Volkswagen Jetta needs a new fuel pump.
Take your vehicle to the auto repair shop and have the faulty fuel pump replaced immediately.
4. Engine Stalling
A stalling engine is not a natural occurrence. If your Jetta’s engine is frequently stalling, especially in addition to the other signs highlighted above, it may be time for a new fuel pump.
5. Faulty Fuel Filter
When your Jetta fails to start, it is right to look at the fuel pump. But you should also never count out the fuel filter.
The fuel filter does an excellent job of preventing contaminants from reaching the highly sensitive parts of your engine and causing havoc.
However, the fuel filter can get clogged over time due to debris, dirt, and sediments. Therefore, if your Jetta’s fuel pump is giving issues and requires replacement, it will be in your favor to consider replacing the fuel filter. This is because the fuel filter works closely with your fuel pump.
6. Diminished Engine Performance
If your Jetta engine sputters, surges, or has a significant loss of power due to erratic fuel delivery issues, your fuel pump could be defective.
A failed fuel pump can diminish the performance of your engine and may even cause a considerable decrease in gas mileage.
You will need to replace the fuel tank pump as soon as possible to restore engine performance.
7. Overheating
An inefficient fuel pump can cause your Volkswagen Jetta’s engine to overheat. If you have an overheating fuel pump problem, your Jetta might run for approximately 15 to 30 minutes before halting.
You will need to allow your engine to cool before your vehicle runs again, only to come to another halt when the issue repeats itself.
You can resolve this issue by having your fuel pump examined and replaced accordingly.
8. Misfiring
A malfunctioning fuel pump can cause your Jetta to misfire. The engine is no longer getting adequate fuel due to improper air-fuel ratio within the combustion chamber, resulting in inefficient combustion.
The outcome of this development is a misfire. Get your mechanic to examine your Jetta’s fuel pump and replace it if found defective.
9. Inability to Maintain Speed
The first thing that usually comes to mind when your Jetta’s engine is struggling to maintain speed or choking is that you may have run out of gas. However, if you check your fuel gauge, that may not be the case.
Therefore, if your vehicle is choking while your gauge shows there is more than enough fuel in the tank, your fuel pump must have failed.
So, get your vehicle to an auto repair shop to have it checked and the faulty fuel pump replaced.
10. Low Fuel Pressure
You can test your fuel pressure to determine whether the fuel pump is faulty. This is necessary if you notice that the fuel pump is no longer pushing enough fuel to your engine.
Buy a fuel pressure gauge to measure the pressure. You can get your mechanic to assist you. But make sure the fuel pressure gauge is the type recommended in your owner’s manual.
It is no longer functional if the fuel pump is damaged or slow. Get the fuel pump replaced immediately.
Can You Drive a Volkswagen Jetta with a Bad Fuel Pump?
The fuel pump is a very vital component, so your Volkswagen Jetta will not start or even move if it is no longer working. Although a fuel pump can last up to 100,000 miles, driving habits and conditions significantly affect how long it lasts.
Although you can start your Jetta using some methods, they are temporary solutions that only work long enough to get your vehicle to the nearest auto repair shop in order to replace your defective fuel pump.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Pump?
According to RepairPal, the average cost of replacing a Volkswagen Jetta fuel pump ranges from $729 to $884. Labor costs range from $131 to $165, while components are priced from $599 to $719.
These price ranges do not include fees and taxes and don’t factor in your specific Volkswagen Jetta model year or unique location. Related repairs may also be required, so you should bear this in mind.
The ranges are based on the age and number of Volkswagen Jetta(s) on the road.
Tips to Make Your Volkswagen Jetta’s Fuel Pump Last Longer
The following tips will help prolong the lifespan of your Volkswagen Jetta fuel pump:
- Always follow Volkswagen’s scheduled maintenance standard for your Jetta model.
- Ensure your gasoline is always free of contaminants or impurities. This will only be possible if you purchase fuel from newer or well-maintained gas stations.
- Avoid driving regularly with low gas in your tank to minimize considerable fuel pump stress. Ensure the fuel level is never below 1/8th or 1/4th of your tank.
- Change your vehicle’s fuel filter at 30,000-mile intervals. A clogged filter makes it harder for the fuel pump to function effectively, resulting in an increased load on the pump. In addition, the increased load generates a lot of heat, shortening the fuel pump’s lifespan.
- Avoid accumulating debris and dirt around the opening of the gas tank or near the fuel pump assembly. This will significantly reduce the clogging of the fuel filter.
- Fuel pumps generally accumulate debris or dirt and undergo wear and tear over time, especially after 100,000 miles or 7 to 8 years. Therefore, replace your Jetta’s fuel pump from time to time.
Related Posts:
Related: Mazda6 Fuel Pump Problems.
Conclusion
So these are the common signs that shows your VW Jetta fuel pump is bad. Make sure to get a mechanic to inspect your car if you notice any of these signs.