fookoo303

So a couple weeks ago I was on the highway and my car just sputtered to a stop. When I step on the gas, it bogs down so it seemed I was out of gas. But I still had a quarter tank of gas. I then filled a gallon and it started right up.

For the past two weeks I made sure that I wouldn't go under half of a tank and today it did the same thing. I filled it up with a gallon and started back up.

Does this sound like a bad fuel pump or maybe a bad regulator?

Also, I replaced my fuel filter about six months ago with either a bosch or a Mann. I can't remember which one.

Silver C

Most likely your fuel pump is failing as it is unable to suck up the gas from your tank..

fookoo303

Thanks. That's what i thought too. So does the fuel pump intermittently work before it fully fails?

Glyn M Ruck

It is possible that the pump won't pull sufficient head if tank level is low. If the car stops again - immediately check if there is fuel pressure at the fuel rail that feeds the injectors.

Silver C

Yes it can, there may also be time it just dies instanteneously...

pcy

+1 on all above comments.

I suggest OP to test the fuel pressure (via a fuel pressure test port at the end of the fuel rail) during no-start condition.

SeaCoupe

How many miles do you have on the car?

Run the car, and when you check pressure at the fuel rail, you should see a good strong stream of gas.

d1no

Check your fuel pressure and report back, check it at startup when its priming, then when its running and when you turn it off. It should be around 50 psi when running and stay there for a while after you turn it off. I had similar problems and it turned out to be a faulty fuel filter.. Maybe you got a bad one too since you replaced it 6 months ago?

fookoo303

i have 176,000 miles
How do I check it? Can i rent the tool for this?

Thanks for the replies

Silver C

Op , its already mentioned how to check. As for the tools, I don't know if you can rent it,where I live no one rents tools..

04mbc230

Oh no!! Perhaps we should start a tread on how much miles before we start seeing things break down. A normal wear and tear item perhaps. I am sure it would be useful for those who can keep a look out of what to expect when they get near that mileage in their cars.

So... what do you think guys/gals?

Silver C

Not to offend you, but everyone have different circumstances, so different miles for you and different miles for me.

04mbc230

Yes. I know. How about just a typical driving style. I notice that regardless the circumstances, usually when the car hits a certain mileage, the majority of our cars has the same problems or maintainence to work on.

mleskovar

Maybe your tank isn't transferring gas from one side to the other? Check the tubes etc. Pull the pump mechanisms to see if there's a clog.

nrg_mike

I say fuel pump. The same thing happened to me with both my C320 and C230k coupe. Happened to my C320 while still under warranty and my C230K only cost like 600 to repair.

fookoo303

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. Tomorrow I am going to test the fuel pressure off the rail and then pull the pump out to make sure there's no obstruction.

amanonfire

Don't you need a special tool to open the gas tank? The pumps are in the tanks, so its not as easy as it sounds.

Glyn M Ruck

I've posted procedure on the other thread where you asked. That tool is easy to make or a rubber mallet & screwdriver does the trick.

fookoo303

Great! Thanks Glyn!

Glyn M Ruck

Your 240 is just nicely run in. Some minor maintenance & she will be good for the next 176K