Reasons for Fuel Pump Failure in BMWs

A BMW is a fun and exciting car to own. With the many different makes and models, there are plenty to choose from and each are unique in their own way. Every BMW has specially designed interiors and exteriors that set them apart from any other car in its class. This is matched by a performance level that is above the standard, so driving a BMW is always exhilarating for you and any passengers you have. In addition to this, BMWs make great family cars due to their high safety ratings.

As with every car, BMWs are going to age and require more maintenance and servicing. One of the parts that may require replacing over time is going to be the fuel pump. The fuel pump is located in the fuel tank and serves to pump the fuel from the tank to the injection system and then through the motor as is required. Below, we discuss a few things that can cause the fuel pump to fail, and how you can help keep it healthy.

Low Fuel

When the gas light comes on in your BMW, you know that it is time to fill up. Many drivers are aware that even once the gas light comes on, there is still fuel in the tank. Not much, but enough for short trips here and there. Continuing to drive like this when the fuel is low can cause the fuel pump to fail. In order to function properly, the pump needs to be pumping fuel continuously, which is difficult when the fuel level gets very low.

When the fuel is full or at a decent level, the fuel pump does not have to work as hard and it will stay cool and lubricated. If the fuel level goes low, the pump becomes overworked and will not cool down as it needs to. This overworking and overheating will cause the fuel pump to fail sooner rather than later.

Water in the Fuel

Another reason why the fuel pump in your BMW could fail is due to there being water present in the fuel. The water can be damaging to the pump by corroding its parts. This will occur if you leave your BMW sitting or stored for an extended period of time. The fuel tank will attract moisture and eventually this water that has gathered in the tank will separate. Once it does, the sitting water will begin to corrode the metal of the fuel pump. In order to prevent this from happening to your BMW, it is suggested that the fuel is removed from the tank if you are planning on storing it.

Dirty Fuel

A third reason why the fuel pump in your BMW could fail is due to the fuel being dirty. Even though there is a strainer in place to pull out contaminants and debris, not all of it will be prevented from entering the fuel pump and the rest of your BMW. The particles that make it through the fuel pump will slowly wear it down and cause the pump to fail. It can be a little difficult to know when the fuel you are using is dirty, so to slow this wear and tear it is important to always keep the strainer clean and clear.

Fixing the Fuel Pump

When the fuel pump has failed, your BMW has ways of letting you know. The engine may be difficult to start, will not start at all, or the engine will die unexpectedly after you have been driving for a while. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is time to take in your BMW to be serviced.

Conveniently accessible from Carrolton and Dallas, TX, Ultimate Bimmer Service is the place to bring your BMW. Here we specialize in anything and everything that pertains to BMW. All of our technicians are accurately trained in all the workings of BMWs. You will be able to quickly schedule an appointment with us to have one of our technicians inspect and diagnose the fuel pump failure.

Once properly identified, the technician will go over the options you have regarding replacing the fuel pump. The parts used will always be top of line, but offered affordably to you. Our technicians will work quickly and efficiently to get you and your BMW back on the road in no time.

* BMW 340i image credit goes to: stonena7.