What problems can a chevy fuel pump have that need reset?
There are several reasons why a chevy fuel pump shut-off switch may need to be reset. Four of the most common usually occur when one of the following happens:
- Engine stops abruptly while driving
- Switch trips for no apparent reason
- No Start Condition
- Wear and tear of electrical components
Whatever the reason or situation, here are a few more things that everyone should know about this specific feature in Chevy Silverados.
First of all, it is important to know what this reset switch is, its purpose and where can it be found in the Chevy Silverado. So, let’s get started by addressing each one of these things.
Contents
What is the Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch?
The fuel pump shut-off switch can be described as an electrical component that controls the fuel pump’s functions. This electrical switch can be found in certain vehicles that have been equipped with internal combustion engines such as the Chevy Silverado 1999 and other years after.
This switch is also referred to as an inertia switch. This name may explain a part of its purpose, particularly since it has been designed to shut off automatically when it detects sudden or forceful movement.
And, it is for that reason, that certain conditions must be met before this fuel pump shut-off switch is activated. Here are 4 of the most common.
1. Engine Stops Abruptly While Driving
One potential problem that some Chevy Silverado owners may deal with is the engine stalling suddenly while driving. In these situations, the fuel pump shut-off feature usually malfunctions, and will need to be reactivated again by pressing the reset button.
2. Switch Trips In error
Drivers may also experience an issue that causes the fuel pump to shut off prematurely. For instance, if this system misinterprets a sudden abrupt stop as a collision, this switch may be tripped in error.
3. No Start Condition
In addition to the switch malfunctioning, the driver may also encounter a no-start condition. For instance, if the switch malfunctions due to damage to these components, the fuel pump shut-off may be disabled permanently.
In essence, the vehicle will not start until the switch has been replaced with a brand new one.
4. Wear and tear on electrical components
As a vehicle begins to age, the electrical components usually become worn out over time. For example, just like any other part of a vehicle, the fuel pump switch may need to be replaced.
And, it is best to address and fix these issues before the vehicle has unnecessary start-up problems.
How to Reset Chevy Silverado Fuel Pumps (1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002 – First Generation)
- You can find the reset switch for these years in at least one of two locations in these vehicles.
- Located on the toe-board, on the right side of the transmission hump, in the passenger side footwell.
- Located behind an access panel. on the right side of the luggage compartment.
Most Common Chevy Fuel Pump Problems
There are several reasons why Chevy has had problems with its fuel pumps. Three of the most common include the gears in fuel pump wear out, overheating, and contamination.
This is primarily due to dirt, debris, and rust entering the gas tank and then being fed through the tank fuel filter. Or, possibly, into the fuel pump.
What Year and Model has the Most issues?
The first generation (1999 – 2006) of Chevy Silverado trucks has been known as having the most fuel pump problems. According to primarycareauto.com, the life expectancy of the fuel pump on these vehicles is at least 100,000 miles.
Once these vehicles reach this mileage, here are some of the signs and symptoms of a failing fuel pump.
- Sputtering engine
- Overheating engine
- Low fuel pressure
- Power loss
- Surging engine
- Gas mileage decrease
- Dead Engine
Better to Fix or Replace The Fuel Pump?
Of course, it is better to replace a fuel pump instead of fixing it. When you replace a fuel pump with a new one, you will get the benefits of better fuel efficiency.
Or, if you decide to fix a fuel pump instead of replacing it, you will also spend more money in the long run. This is because fixing the pump without replacing it, is only a temporary fix.
Conclusion
The Chevy Silverados are known for being great all-rounders. This is because they are perfect vehicles for driving around the town and on tough off-road terrain.
However, the first generation of Chevy Silverado owners has had their share of problems, particularly with the fuel pump shut-off switch.
Therefore, if you are investing in one of these vehicles, you must become familiar with how this switch functions and how to reset it when these problems occur.
