There is a strong effect of fuel quality on pump performance and lifespan since fuel contaminants or impurities increase wear and clogging risks. Furthermore, it minimizes the risk of getting clogged and scratched inside the fuel pump by filtering contaminated fuel with particles (above 10 microns). However, lower-quality fuel or contaminated fuel contains dirt, rust, and even water and will wear out internal pump parts. Pumps skimped on the good stuff will last 20–30% shorter when tested with fuel not up to code, as the impurities in the fuel cause rapid wear of components such as the impeller and rotor.
Water contamination is a recurring problem with low-grade fuels, mainly in humid areas or where practices of storage are irregular. Rust in a fuel tank caused by water in the fuel reaches the fuel system and blocks the pump. Industry experts explain that even the microscopic rust particles, 5 microns in size, can accumulate in the pump, which would increase friction leading to as much as a 15% loss in efficiency. Fuel brands that are premium in nature normally have tighter controls over water management, and so tend to have a cleaner supply and safer for the pump.
In this regard, ethanol-blended fuels, for example E10 or E85, pose specific challenges for fuel pumps, especially in older vehicles that were neither designed nor manufactured to handle the properties of ethanol. Ethanol has an affinity to water that leads to separation in the fuel system, and this ends becoming sludge that clogs the pump inlet. The same goes for ethanol, which also contributes to the faster deterioration of particular rubber and plastic components fueling pumps, leading to an increase in maintenance requirements. Due to this, mechanics recommend more frequent service or fuel system upgrades to older vehicles running on ethanol blends because research shows that fuel pump wear nearly increases by 25% with the blend.
There are many types of fuel additives out there and these are often used to try and improve fuel performance or to clean the engine but these engines can also affect the health of the fuel pump. If the violator is too much, additives will have a reaction to impurities, forming residues that shall leave in the screen or pump filter. This risk is reduced with high quality, approved additives, but unregulated aftermarket additives may lead to an increased level of build-up, which can restrict fuel flow and cause the pump to work harder.
Low grade fuels create deposits which can clog and wear parts and reduce pump efficiency leading to costly repairs and pump failure. Considering replacement costs run $200-$500 on average, depending on the model vehicle, it makes fiscal sense to use clean, high-quality fuel in the long run. Experts recommend that only high-quality fuel is used, and regular replacement of the fuel filter is performed, as this is essential for the reliable functionality of the Fuel Pump, which provides the necessary support for optimal performance, efficiency and durability.