Fuel Pump Pressure Switch

How Does A Fuel Pump Pressure Switch Work?

A fuel pump pressure switch is a safety feature responsible for shutting off the power supply to the fuel pump when a loss of oil pressure is detected. Without proper lubrication, your vehicle's engine can lock up and the moving parts of the engine can experience extreme friction, causing premature wear and engine damage. The fuel pump pressure switch can detect oil loss and stall the engine before the lack of lubrication causes any permanent wear or catastrophic engine failure. Your fuel pump pressure switch monitors oil loss in one of two ways, depending on your vehicle type. In some vehicles, the pressure switch receives signals from the oil pressure sensor separately, while in others, the fuel pump pressure switch is built into the oil pressure sensor. If your fuel pump pressure switch is activated and turns off your fuel pump, but your oil levels are not low, the oil pressure sensor may be at fault. If the oil pressure sensor malfunctions and trips the fuel pump pressure switch, it can stall your engine and prevent your vehicle from starting even if the oil pressure is normal. Over time, the fuel pump pressure switch can also wear out and no longer maintain communication with the fuel pump. This can keep the vehicle from starting or may cause the fuel pump to operate intermittently. To keep your engine running its best and protect it from premature wear or failure, replace your fuel pump pressure switch as soon as you notice an issue. O'Reilly Auto Parts has the right replacement fuel pump pressure switches and oil pressure sensors for a complete, lasting repair.