New Level Auto Service diagnoses and replaces fuel pumps at our shop at 716 E Gude Dr in Rockville, MD. If your car cranks but won’t start, sputters on the highway or loses power, we test the fuel system to confirm it’s the pump before replacing anything. Call (301) 762-1200.
- ASE-certified mechanics
- 20+ years of experience
- Licensed MD inspection station
- All makes and models
- Se habla español
Signs your fuel pump is failing
- The engine cranks but won’t start. If the pump isn’t sending fuel, the engine turns over but never fires.
- Sputtering at highway speed. A weak pump can’t keep up when the engine needs more fuel, so the car stumbles or surges.
- Loss of power when accelerating or going uphill. Low fuel pressure shows up most when the engine is working hardest.
- A whining noise from the gas tank. A loud, steady whine from the back of the car can be a worn pump motor.
- The car stalls, especially when warm. Pumps that are failing often quit when they get hot, then start again after cooling down.
- Check engine light with lean codes. Not enough fuel makes the engine run lean, which can set codes.
Making sure it’s really the pump
A lot of things can look like a bad fuel pump, like a clogged fuel filter, a bad relay or fuse, or a wiring problem. Replacing a pump is a real job, so we test first.
- Fuel pressure test
- Pump relay and fuse
- Wiring and connectors
- Fuel filter (if external)
- Read engine codes
- Test drive after repair
We check fuel pressure and the pump’s power and ground, and read any codes. If the pump is the problem, we replace it and make sure the car starts and runs right before it leaves.
Car won’t start at all?
Starting problems can also come from the battery, alternator or starter. See our battery, alternator and starter page, and remember we offer 24-hour emergency towing.
Why Rockville drivers bring their cars to us
New Level Auto Service is owned by Christian, a mechanic with more than 20 years of experience. The shop has been in Rockville for over 10 years, and our mechanics are ASE certified.
- 20+ yrsHands-on experience behind the owner
- 10+ yrsServing drivers in Rockville
- ASECertified mechanics
- EN / ESWe speak English and Spanish
Fuel pump FAQ
What are the signs of a bad fuel pump?
Common signs are a car that cranks but won’t start, sputtering at highway speed, loss of power when accelerating, a whining noise from the gas tank, and stalling when the engine is warm.
Can I drive with a failing fuel pump?
It’s risky. A failing pump can quit without warning and leave you stranded, sometimes in traffic. Get it checked as soon as you notice symptoms.
What else can cause the same symptoms?
A clogged fuel filter, a bad fuel pump relay or fuse, wiring problems or a bad sensor can all act like a failing pump. That’s why we test before replacing it.
Does running low on gas hurt the fuel pump?
It can. The fuel around the pump helps keep it cool, so regularly driving on a nearly empty tank can make the pump run hotter and wear out sooner.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome. If the car won’t start, call us at (301) 762-1200. We have 24-hour emergency towing.
Bring your car in
New Level Auto Service, 716 E Gude Dr, Rockville, MD 20850. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead gets you faster service.
- Phone (301) 762-1200
- Hours Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM
- Extras Night drop available and 24-hour emergency towing
- Payment Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
