Your fuel system is one of the most vital parts of your Ford. Caring for it should be among your top priorities. To keep your Ford running like new, you should have it serviced regularly. Here, we'll go into detail about what that service involves, when you should have it done, and more. Call Ford Fairfield today at (707) 421-3300.
A properly done fuel cleaning service involves the thorough scouring of your Ford's fuel system of all contaminants that might impact the running quality of your vehicle. Everything from the injectors to the combustion chamber, pump, filter, and fuel tank is taken care of during a fuel system cleaning service. If your mechanic says you need this service, don't put it off. Delaying for too long can cause damage to the system that is far more expensive to repair in the long run.
The Ford vehicles on the road today require full fuel system cleaning service once every 30,000 miles. If any components have taken significant wear and tear and the mechanic notices them during cleaning, they'll be replaced for a small fee. If your Ford is under warranty, these sorts of maintenance and repair issues are likely covered.
The individual components of the fuel system have different life spans. When you hit these milestones, the related components should be replaced regardless of their apparent condition. Beyond a certain age, some parts can lose integrity in ways that aren't easily seen. The fuel tank needs to be replaced least often, and it should last at least a decade. Fuel pumps can last around 100,000 miles, but their condition varies greatly according to use, so you may have to replace them sooner.
The fuel injector itself needs to be replaced between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the model year of the vehicle. Check your owner's guide for details. The fuel filter has the widest range of operating life. It varies by model year from 20,000 miles to 150,000 miles, with the higher number more common on high-performance models or vehicles with performance package upgrades.
Your Ford has many ways to tell you that something is up with your fuel system. The first indication that it needs service is typically the activation of your check engine light. This can mean many things, but when tied to certain signs, it likely means some part of your fuel system needs service. If your fuel system is heavily clogged, you will notice rough engine starts.
For instance, the car might experience sharp jerks and sputtering sounds that level out after a time. If your Ford shudders heavily when idling, it may be getting either too much air or not enough. This tends to mean a pump or injector issue, but a cable or tube issue is possible there too. If the response of your gas pedal is delayed, see a mechanic immediately. If it is both delayed and uneven, producing different results with each press, it is unsafe to drive. Do not attempt to drive it to the mechanic, but have it towed in instead.
Uneven acceleration can be a sign of fuel system issues, but other component malfunctions can cause the same thing. If your fuel pump is failing, you may hear a whining noise from the fuel tank. This isn't as dangerous as it may sound. No sparking or similar event can occur from this malfunction. If you have an SUV or truck and you experience sharp power drops when towing, your system may have issues that are only apparent in some driving situations. If you have lower power at high speeds during normal driving, the same issue may be present.
Engine misfires and stalls can also be signs that the fuel system is malfunctioning. These signs usually mean that something is off with the fuel and air mix or the fuel injection pattern. If your engine fails when you are going uphill but operates normally otherwise, it is likely that you have a fuel tank issue or a problem with a related feed line. If you hear loud noises from the fuel pump, but the engine won't turn over, it is time for it to be replaced.
There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your fuel system and make the job of your mechanics a bit easier. Fuel injector cleaner is a simple and safe way to keep your fuel system relatively free of contaminant buildup. This type of cleaner is available at almost every gas station, most auto parts stores, and your Ford dealership. All you have to do is pour it into your fuel tank and operate your vehicle normally. The mix will do the rest.
Heavy buildup in the fuel tank can cause issues, particularly if it has not been replaced at the proper time. It is possible to remove, flush out, and replace the fuel tank without much difficulty if you have the proper tools and know-how. But if you suspect any serious problems with your fuel tank, your best bet would be to bring it to our service department and let our qualified pros handle the job.
Performance upgrades that impact or monitor the air-fuel mixture ratio, reduce fuel pump strain, or improve throttle response are all good for reinforcing the life span of your fuel system. If you rarely drive your vehicle, consider using a fuel stabilizing agent on your system. This will make sure that extended periods without engine use have no negative effect on your vehicle's fuel systems. You can also preserve the life of your fuel pump by making sure you don't go below a quarter full on your gas tank.
No matter what kind of service your Ford needs, you'll find it at Ford Fairfield. Our maintenance and repair staff are trained to exacting standards, ensuring quality work on every job. When the time comes for your fuel system cleaning, make an appointment and come see us.
Disclaimer:
Operating, servicing and maintaining a passenger vehicle or off-road vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your vehicle in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.