6 Key Fuel System Components (And How They Work)
The fuel system is responsible for supplying fuel to your internal combustion engine. After you fill your gas tank with fuel, there’s a system that delivers that fuel to your engine as needed. The more you put strain on your engine, the more fuel it needs to receive.
There is the fuel pump, the fuel tank, the fuel lines, the fuel filter, the injectors, and the carburetor.
It is really no different to the body’s heart, veins, and kidneys working together to keep it moving. If any one of these components is not working properly, it can affect the entire fuel transfer process. If you notice any wear or damage to any of these components, you should replace them immediately to avoid problems with your vehicle.
1) Fuel Pump (Faulty Fuel Pump)
In many newer cars, the pump is located inside the tank. In older vehicles, the fuel pump may be located midway between the engine and the fuel tank. The job of the fuel pump is to pump fuel to the engine.
2) Fuel tank (symptoms of water accumulating in the gas tank)
The fuel tank is pretty self-explanatory. When you pump fuel into your car, it goes into the fuel tank. You might also see the fuel pump and exhaust tech there.
3) Fuel Filter (Bad Fuel Filter)
Your engine needs clean fuel to function properly and run smoothly. The fuel filter is usually located around the fuel pump, in front of it or behind it. A clogged fuel filter will make your car undriveable.
4) Injectors
Fuel injectors in modern vehicles are controlled by electrical sensors and computers. When you accelerate or put more strain on the engine, a small electrically operated valve opens, allowing fuel to flow into the combustion chamber. This valve is basically the vehicle’s fuel injector.
5) Carburetor (old cars)
As we all know, an internal combustion engine needs a mixture of air and fuel before ignition. In old cars without fuel injection, the carburetor is responsible for mixing the fuel and air. After the mixture is formed, it is delivered to the combustion chamber and ignited by the spark plug.
6) Fuel Lines
There are all kinds of fuel lines in the fuel system. Fuel lines are used to move fuel from one component to another, for example, making sure that fuel flows from the fuel tank to the injectors.
