Many people put gas in their automobile but never think about the fuel pump that maintains the pressure and transports the gas for combustion. If the fuel pump in your vehicle is not working properly, you will experience problems with your car. Luckily, there are several signs of a malfunctioning fuel pump; if you can recognize the signs, you will be able to get your vehicle repaired. Some common signs of a faulty fuel pump include the following.

Engine Sputtering

When you're driving down the freeway at high speeds, the last thing you expect is to have issues with your car. But if there is a problem with your fuel pump, your engine may begin sputtering when you reach high speeds. If your car begins jerking and sputtering and then returns to driving normally, you do not want to take your chances by continuing to travel at high speeds; it is in your best interest to exit the freeway and visit an automotive repair shop. 

Problems Accelerating from a Stop

When your car's engine isn't getting enough gas, it can have a very hard time accelerating from a complete stop. You may notice that it feels like your car begins to stall when you try to accelerate before it starts moving. A bad fuel pump will not increase the amount of fuel that the engine needs to accelerate, and that is why it may take several seconds for your car to begin moving.

Unexpected Surges

While many problems with fuel pumps result in sputtering or problems accelerating, a malfunctioning fuel pump can also cause a surge in acceleration without the driver of the vehicle applying pressure to the gas pedal. This occurs when the fuel pump can't draw enough electricity to maintain pressure and keep the vehicle at a steady speed. As the pressure increases, the vehicle can begin moving faster than it should. Vehicle surges can be very scary and dangerous. Discontinue driving your vehicle until you can have the fuel pump replaced if you experience uncontrolled surges.

Vehicle Won't Start

When a fuel pump fails completely, your car will not be able to start because no gas is reaching the engine when the ignition is engaged. You will hear the normal sounds of your car trying to start up, but it will not be able to. If your fuel pump fails completely, you will most likely need to have your car towed to an automotive repair shop to have a new fuel pump put in.