1991 Buick Regal – Is It Fuel Pump Problem or Mechanic Misdiagnosing the Problem?

Reader Question: I have a 1991 Buick Regal. I have replaced the fuel pump 5 times in last 6 months, the last being 6 days ago. My car is now in shop again. They tell me that fuel pump is bad again. How can this be? What could be tearing it up? Please help me!

Thanks!

Charlie

Hey Charlie,

You have more patience than I do that is for sure. Have you been paying for each fuel pump as well or is this fully covered under warranty. I would not put up with it…and would find another mechanic ASAP.

A few things come to mind and I would want to check out.

What brand of pump are they using? Even the cheapest of brands should last longer than 6 months.

Is there something wrong with the fuel tank itself? I have seen the plastic retaining part inside the fuel tank break off from the bottom of the fuel tank and allow the fuel pump to bang against the side of the fuel tank – thus damaging the pump.

Is there too much electricity going TO the pump – thus overheating the pump?

Is there too much pressure coming out of the pump – something wrong with the fuel sending unit that the pump attaches to?

Do you have a fuel pump problem in the first place or is the mechanic misdiagnosing the problem and replacing “good pumps” but during the installation process, he moves a pinched wire or a loose connection so when the new pump is installed and whala it works again?

You can sometimes bang on the bottom of the fuel tank with your fist or rubber hammer AS someone cranks the engine over…this can jump start a weak fuel pump. It would be worth a try! I strongly suspect a misdiagnoses here.

Blessings,
Austin Davis