Electric cars might be making a splash on the auto market but gas is still the way to go for most Americans. Vehicle manufacturers have worked tirelessly for decades to design fuel-efficient automobiles that do not emit as many harmful gases into the environment as they used to. Keeping your fuel system healthy is crucial to getting the most of your vehicle’s efficiency. University Auto Repair can help with fuel system maintenance and repair designed to deal with the following common problems.
1. Air/Fuel Mixture Problems
Your engine uses both air and fuel to create combustion. If the fuel system is having problems, you might end up with too much gas in the mixture, which can cause engine surging and black exhaust, or too little gas in the system, which can cause engine sputtering and stalling. It’s important to have the right amount of air and fuel in the mixture for optimal engine performance.
2. Fuel System Clogs
One thing that can throw off the air/fuel ratio is a clog. Your fuel filter can get clogged if it isn’t changed every two years, and your fuel injectors can get clogged if they aren’t cleaned every 30,000 miles. Dirt, sediment, and carbon buildup are all common things that can clog these fuel system parts. Dirt and sediment can also clog your fuel lines and prevent gas flow into the engine.
3. Octane Trouble
Most vehicles run just fine on gas that has an octane rating of 87. This said, some engines require higher octane because they fire up more quickly. In this case, your vehicle manufacturer will recommend gas with either an 89 or 91 octane rating. If you use gas with a lower octane than recommended for your vehicle, the engine will knock because you have mini-fireballs detonating in the cylinders.
4. Part Failure
Finally, any one of your fuel system parts can fail due to age, manufacturing defect, or neglect. For example, the fuel pump, lines, and injectors can all crack and leak. The fuel pump’s motor can also overheat and die. If the fuel sender malfunctions, you won’t have an accurate reading of how much gas is in your tank. You can even get a check engine warning if your gas cap isn’t sealing the tank anymore.
Let University Auto Repair help you with your fuel system concerns. We are a full-service auto shop in Flagstaff, AZ, ready to maintain your fuel system to help you avoid expensive repairs. When it’s time to replace fuel systems parts, we can do that, too!
