Gas pump continually shuts off on winter blend

ANSWER : Hi there. This is very odd and to be quite honest, has us stumped. Winter fuel blends are typically less refined or oxygenated to help fuel burn in colder weather climates. However, even under the best conditions, only about 80% of the fuel that enters the combustion chamber is actually burned. It is possible that the higher levels of oxygen can create more pressure inside the fuel tank, which might cause the pump to ’click’ more often than in summer season (but this is just a theory). The only mechanical component that would cause this is a EVAP canister or purge solenoid that is faulty. I wish we could give you a direct reason why you’re having this issue, but further inspection of your Hyundai would be needed.

ANSWER : Check fuel pressure. There are only three possible explanations: a fault in fuel supply (plugged filter, injectors, etc.); ignition system problems; and air induction including the idle air control valve, throttle position sensor, mass air flow sensor and vacuum leaks including the PCV and EGR systems. If obvious, and easy to check, possibilities do not reveal the fault, the recommended service to request is a rough running diagnostic and the responding certified mechanic will travel right to your location and get this diagnosed and resolved for you. It is also possible that diagnostic trouble codes have set and the mechanic will attempt to retrieve those using an appropriate scan tool. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic.

ANSWER : Fuel pumps rely on liquid gasoline for cooling. Consequently, it is recommended to keep the fuel tank at least 1/4 full to prevent the fuel pump from overheating. If the pump is run to the point of being dry, the seal on the impeller can overheat and get damaged. Even if the pump subsequently runs, as you report your does, it cannot develop enough suction to pick up fuel due to the seal damage. That is possibly what has happened in your case but it should be confirmed prior to replacing the fuel pump. In your circumstance the recommended service is fuel pump replacement but if you request that, the responding certified mechanic will do enough tests to confirm that there is no other possible explanation for the failure. There is a quick and direct way to determine if the problem is lack of fuel. Procure a can of "starter fluid" from any department store. Using the material cautiously (it is highly flammable; keep away from flames or sparks), introduce some of the fluid into the intake of the engine while you engage the starter motor. If the vehicle starts and runs briefly, then you know for sure the problem is fuel starvation of course almost undoubtedly caused by the pump failing. Fuel pump replacement can be accomplished in the field, right at your location, if you desire that service.

ANSWER : The fuel level sensor problem (prematurely worn contacts) is, unfortunately, a known and chronic problem with this model. Running out of gas in traffic is definitely a safety issue. I believe this repair is essential. A professional mechanic, like YourMechanic, can help with this repair.

ANSWER : The most common cause of this type of problem is when the fuel filler neck’s inner tube comes off of the neck itself. You will need to have the filler neck removed to check to see if the inner tube was knocked off from someone trying to get fuel out of tank with a siphon hose and managed to knock the hose off. This causes the tank to not get filled properly and the inner hose can get caught in the fuel sender causing wrong readings.

If you’d like to get this fixed, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can help you service your fuel filler neck and ensure that your fuel gauge functions normally. Good luck.

ANSWER : Hey there, thanks for writing in about your 1996 Chevrolet Blazer. If you hear the pump, but still get no fuel out of the pump, then you have the power and ground backwards in the wiring or they have it backwards on the pump. If you need help having this checked, a certified professional from YourMechanic can inspect the starting issue and let you know what repairs are necessary.

ANSWER : The vent hose on the fuel tank to the fuel filler neck is plugged up and is not allowing the air (fumes) to cycle through the system as the fuel is being poured. To verify this, the next time you fill up, hold the fuel nozzle splash guard back and put the fuel in the fuel filler neck without spilling any fuel. If the fuel is able to go in the tank just fine, then the vent hose is plugged up. If you need further assistance with your fuel entering the fuel tank issue, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

ANSWER : Hi there, thank you for asking about your 1983 Nissan 280ZX. You should replace the fuel pump relay. Make sure to hook up your multimeter to check for the voltage reading while you are trying to start the car and the fuel pump circuit should be live. Checking voltage without a load may show continuity, but not the ability to pass current. If you want to have this checked by a certified mechanic, a technician from YourMechanic can come to your home or office to replace your fuel pump relay.