FUEL PUMP AGONY

[Delia Caribbean]

Finally got my 4.4i 2000 started. It seems the fuel pump is on it's way out. Now, I don't feel comfortable driving as I don't know when it's going to stop supplying the engine with gas. Can anyone tell me if you think it will last at least two weeks? I want to buy a new one. Any suggestions where I can get a reasonably priced one? I'm in the Caribbean - dealer here has only one left at approx US$550 - I think that's absolutely crazy. But if I get one over here, I've got to look at 65% cost and freight duty.

[lx4life]

Why do you think its the fuel pump ever thought aboout changing the fuel filter first?

[Delia Caribbean]

I was told the filter would not stop the engine from starting. Is there a test that would determine the life of the pump? How can I tell that it could be the filter and not the pump?

[Weasel]

There is no way to know how long a failing pump will last before giving up the ghost. Did you ever get the fuel pressure tested?

[01 BMW_X5]

Originally Posted by Delia Caribbean

I was told the filter would not stop the engine from starting. Is there a test that would determine the life of the pump? How can I tell that it could be the filter and not the pump?

What do YOU think is the purpose of the fuel filter? Quit listening to the dumba$$ that told you the filter would not stop the engine from starting. You need to understand the flow of the gas from the tank to the engine and the components in-between.

Only way you going to tell what is wrong is when you start doing some of the things we've told you in another thread!!

Remove the filter and pour the gas out into a container. Sometimes you may see gunk falling out.

Check the fuel pressure like we told you in the other thread or pay somebody to do it.

[Delia Caribbean]

OK. I've asked someone to change the fuel filter. Car's running well, but my heart skips a beat when it changes gear - I keep thinking it's going to stop.
I was told today by someone else, that if the car goes OK for the next three days then most probably the fuel pump is OK. So many stories circulating out here! There's only one main dealer who takes the mick! They charged me $40 to change the bulb over my number plate.

[Delia Caribbean]

I've not had it checked yet, but I've seen the fuel gushing out the moment the hose is removed from the pump and also where it connects in the engine - seems very healthy. It will be checked when the filter is replaced.