Critical Fuel System
Fuel pump failure (mechanical)
Symptoms
Car cranks but won't start. Sputters and dies. No fuel pressure.
Cause
Mechanical fuel pumps on the B18/B20 are cam-driven. Diaphragms crack, valves stick, springs weaken. Ethanol accelerates degradation.
Fix
- 1 Check fuel pressure: should be around 2-4 psi (verify spec). Use a T-fitting and pressure gauge
- 2 Rebuild kit ~$20-30. Or replace pump outright (~$60-100, ATE or Bosch)
- 3 If you're sick of mechanical pumps, fit an inline electric pump (Facet or equivalent, ~$50-80). Mount low, near tank, with a filter before it
Cost mentioned in fix
~$20-30~$60-100,~$50-80
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