How to Spot a Faulty Gasoline Pump and What to Do About It

Last year, the Texas Department of Agriculture disclosed that about 1 in 5 gas stations in the Houston area had at least one faulty pump. Mostly, the malfunctioning pumps displayed “pump jumping,” symptoms where the pump charges before dispensing gasoline, and delivers less fuel than paid for.

However, that is not the only sign of a faulty gasoline pump. There are many of them. In this post, we’ll look at some common weak fuel pump symptoms, their causes, how to diagnose them, and what to do when you experience any of them.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Symptoms of a Faulty Gasoline Pump

Following are some common symptoms that a faulty gasoline pump displays. Understanding them will help you detect the issues with the pump earlier on before they become too harrowing for you to resolve:

1.    Slow Flow Rate

A gasoline pump should provide fuel at a steady, fast rate so customers can fill up quickly. If the fuel flows too slowly, it could mean issues like clogged filters, a worn nozzle, or internal problems.

2.    Inconsistent Pumping

Inconsistent pumping happens when the pump starts and stops suddenly during refueling. This can result from a faulty pump itself or its nozzle.

3.    No Gas Dispensing

If the pump doesn’t dispense gas after a transaction starts this might be due to an issue in the pump itself, its nozzle, or the payment system.

4.    Pump Doesn’t Shut Off Automatically

Modern gas pumps automatically stop fuel flow when the tank is full. If this feature fails, it can cause overflows, increasing the risk of fire and environmental harm.

5.    Leakage Around the Nozzle or Hose

Any kind of hole around the nozzle or hose is indicative of a problem with the pump and can lead to fire or environmental hazards. It can be caused by a worn seal, gasket, or damaged hose.

Causes of Faulty Gas Pumps

There are many conditions that can cause the gas pump to be faulty, which will lead to inaccurate gasoline dispensing and bad performance of the pump in general. Here are some reasons for their malfunctioning:

1.    Mechanical Failures

Some of the signs of a damaged nozzle or hose include fluid leakage, changes in volume accuracy, and even worn, impacted, or mishandled nozzles or hoses. The pump also begins to wear out, and its motor, gears, or seals may also give way.

2.    Sensor Failure

Gas pumps use sensors to monitor fuel flow, temperature, and pressure. A malfunctioning sensor can affect the automatic shutoff, causing fuel overflow, and lead to incorrect flow rate readings, resulting in under or over-dispensing.

3.    Electrical Problems

Modern gas pumps depend on electrical systems, like wiring and software. Any problem with wiring, connections, or software can cause glitches, inaccurate readings, and pump failures.

4.    Blockages In the Fuel Line

Apparently, obstructions in fuel lines can occur over time and cause damage to the efficiency of the pumped fluid. Contaminants such as sediment, foreign matter, dirt, or water, not to mention, corrosion can choke the fuel line as well

5.    Tampering or Vandalism

Malicious tampering or vandalism can compromise the pump’s internal components, thus, affecting its accuracy and performance.

6.    Inadequate Maintenance

Infrequent maintenance can cause wear and tear, turn small issues into bigger problems, and lead to pump failure.

7.    Extreme Temperatures & Power Fluctuations

Rapid temperature variation can reduce the efficiency of the pump. While a short-circuit or fluctuating voltage can disrupt its operation and damage its electronic parts.

How to Detect a Faulty Gas Pump?

There are numerous ways you can detect a bad fuel pump. Here are the most effective ones:

1.    Visual Inspection

Always assess for any signs of tampering, cracks, broken seals, or leakage. This also applies to the housing of a fuel pump where you might notice cracks or loose housing parts. It is also important to ascertain that the pump is clean and well-maintained to avoid pump failure since such a pump will likely develop some problems.

2.    Testing the Pump

Take a fuel container that has been calibrated earlier and fill it with gasoline. Then, pour the fuel through the pump and compare its content with the measurement on the pump. If the record obtained from the pump is far from reality, it may be that the pump has malfunctioned.

3.    Using a Gas Pump Tester

You can employ a gas pump tester to measure the amount of fuel a pump dispenses. Mostly, gas station operators and inspectors use it to ascertain pumps are functioning properly. Gas pump testers provide accurate readings, save time by quickly testing multiple pumps, and help comply with regulations.

This gives both the operators and customers confidence in the accuracy of the pumps. To use the tester, attach its probe to the outlet of the pump, and discharge a certain quantity of fuel. Then, compare the volume indicated on the tester with that on the pump. If there’s a very large difference that could be because the pump is broken.

What to Do If You Come Across a Defective Gas Pump?

If you suspect a faulty pump, note the pump number, station name, and time. Take photos, record staff conversations, and report the issue to the manager and your local consumer protection agency.

1.    Document the Incident

Take photos and videos of the malfunctioning pump, visible damage, and display.  Also, note the pump number, station name, and date/time for reference and record any conversations with staff about the issue and their actions.

2.    Report the Issue

Inform the gas station manager or owner about any issues in the gasoline pump right away, sharing the details you documented. You can also report the problem to local consumer protection agencies or regulatory bodies like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the U.S. You can contact your state’s weights and measures official on their website.

3.    Seek Compensation

If your vehicle suffers from losses due to a defective pump, rectify the situation by speaking to the station manager or owner. Explain to them the situation since they may not have been present when it all happened. If that doesn’t work, you may go for a legal remedy including filing a small claim. Also, read your insurance contract because many insurance policies for automobiles include coverage of losses from faulty pumps.

Key Takeaways

A malfunctioning fuel pump will display symptoms of slow fuel flow, inconsistent pumping, failure to dispense gas, and leaks. These issues may be caused by mechanical problems, sensor failures, electrical issues, or lack of maintenance.

Therefore, as a vehicle owner or fleet manager you must be vigilant to detect these early through visual checks, pump testing, or using a gas pump tester. If you find a faulty pump, document the issue, report it to the manager or consumer protection agency, and seek compensation for any losses. Reporting these problems helps protect consumers and ascertain pumps function safely and accurately.

FAQs

1.    Can I fix a fuel pump myself?

Replacing a fuel pump in your vehicle is possible, but it’s a tough task that needs mechanical skills. It usually requires accessing and sometimes removing the fuel tank.

2.    What should I look for, when choosing the correct fuel pump to buy?

Whenever you go out to seek a fuel pump you need to know the make, model, and year of your car. Also, refer to the VIN to obtain the correct part number for good fit and performance.

3.    Will a bad fuel pump throw a code?

Yes. A bad fuel pump can trigger a trouble code in your vehicle’s computer, helping identify the problem and guide repairs.

4.    Can a fuel pump run but still be bad?

A fuel pump can run but still be faulty if it doesn’t provide enough fuel pressure or works intermittently, causing starting issues or engine hesitation.

5.    How do you test a good fuel pump?

To prove a fuel pump is good, apply the fuel pressure gauge to determine if delivering the right amount of fuel pressure matches your vehicle’s specifications.

Fix Faulty Gasoline Pumps and Choose Fuel Logic for Smooth Fleet Operation

If you need urgent mobile fuel or bulk gasoline delivery directly to your fleet, you don’t need to pay at a pump. Fuel Logic offers fast and reliable fuel delivery services for large and small fleets both on-site or off-road.

Our team ascertains you never run out of fuel, providing same-day delivery for diesel, unleaded gas, and DEF. We serve industries like transportation, construction, and logistics across the U.S. Just give us a ring today or fill out the form on our website to order round-the-clock customized gasoline delivery!

author avatar
Eliot Vancil Author, Chief Executive Officer
CEO of Fuel Logic LLC, leads a Dallas, Texas-based company specializing in comprehensive fuel management solutions, including delivery of various diesel types and gasoline nationwide. His diverse professional path includes roles such as Proprietor of Beaumont Hotel & Spa and a former CEO of Network Logic, where he oversaw IT support and services for Texas businesses.
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