Fuel pressure is a surprisingly delicate aspect of your vehicle but it’s ultimately so critical to the performance and longevity of your well-loved European car. But how do you know when your fuel pressure is too high?
As with most things in a car, there’s the ideal level of function – typically an equilibrium. But beyond that, there are two extremes where, in either case, damage and low performance are the end result. This is also true for fuel pressure. In this post, we will discuss what it means to have high fuel pressure, what symptoms to look out for and, ultimately, what your best course of action is when you’re experiencing high fuel pressure.
It’s quite possible that your first instinct when you notice that something isn’t right with your vehicle is that you take it to your trusted European car mechanic for service. Ultimately, this is the best action that you can take to ensure that your car is taken care of and no further damage occurs. That said, if you are looking to learn more about fuel pressure and why high pressure is a negative state for your car to be in, keep reading.
The Importance of Correct Fuel Pressure
In short, the correct fuel pressure (air to fuel ratio) helps your vehicle run as efficiently as possible. When your vehicle is operating at optimal fuel pressure levels, both power and fuel economy are maximized.
If fuel pressure is too high, your vehicle’s engine could be over fueled, leading to many of the symptoms listed below. Some of these symptoms include your engine running rough, poor fuel economy and black smoke from the exhaust.
On the opposite side, if fuel pressure is too low, your vehicle could experience a lack of horsepower, slow staring, an inability to start the engine or stalling.
Symptoms of High Fuel Pressure
When an engine “runs rich” it means that the air to fuel ratio is not at an optimal level and, instead, there is too much fuel and not enough air. This results in poor gas mileage, among other, more long-term consequences. An engine runs rich especially when accelerating. As the driver, you will know when your car is running rich when you notice the following symptoms in your vehicle:
- Check engine light
- The exhaust gives off fuel smell
- Low fuel economy and constant refuelling
- Poor engine performance
- Blackened spark plugs
- Spark plugs that are wet with fuel
- Restrictions in return line
So, then, what causes high fuel pressure?
Causes of High Fuel Pressure
As we discussed, high fuel pressure means that the air to fuel ratio is off-kilter. The causes for this imbalance of fuel pressure typically include either a bad fuel regulator or a clogged return line.
When Your Check Engine Light Comes On
The easiest way to tell that it’s time for you to take your vehicle in to AutoScope’s team for a closer look is when your check engine light turns on. At AutoScope, we’re able to carefully and expertly diagnose the cause of your vehicle issues and, in the case of fuel pressure issues, resolve the root cause of the imbalance and restore the optimal air to fuel ratio.
Checking the fuel pressure is an important part of troubleshooting the overall fuel injector system. Commonly, fuel pressure readings that are too high are caused by a restriction in the return line. However, this isn’t the only cause, so it’s always best to seek the advice and diagnostic abilities of trained professionals.
Auto Repair for Your Car
High fuel pressure can cause both short-term and long-term damage to all vehicles, including European cars. By seeing a qualified auto repair mechanic, you can take your car back on the road in no time with the confidence that your vehicle will run smoothly for years to come.
Whether you’re seeking help for a particular issue or coming in for regular service and maintenance, our team of experienced and passionate mechanics will help you in every way possible.
For all your auto service needs, reach out to AutoScope. AutoScope is dedicated to providing the best auto repair service to European make car owners that is affordable and long-lasting, giving you the confidence to go back on the road. We service German and European made vehicles and specialize in Audi, BMW, Porsche, and Mercedes. If you’re in the Dallas, Plano, Frisco, Flower Mound and Irving areas, stop by for an unforgettable experience in the shop and on the road.
Schedule your appointment today here.