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2003 C230 fuel pump going bad? 7.56 amp draw

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Old 09-11-2018, 01:22 PM
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2003 C230
2003 C230 fuel pump going bad? 7.56 amp draw

2003 C230 sedan 105k miles
Fuel filter was changed at 100k miles 4 months ago.

I heard loud noise from under the back seat for two times this week. It's louder than normal so I noticed it by putting my ear onto the back seat.

The draw is 7.56 amp. Is that normal?

The noise isn't there today. But I want to know if the fuel pump is dying? I would like to change it before I loose power on the freeway speed.
Old 09-11-2018, 02:25 PM
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C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort (What the heck, it gets 38 mpg!)
Hmm..well 7.5 x 12-13v is 90- 97 watts.
But it has to move a lot of fuel and at high pressure so could be correct.
With that much power being used, it would generate some heat one would think,
but I guess being submerged in fuel would keep it cool.

Mine lasted over 200K miles with consistent filter changes.

All that being said the only moving part that could generate noise is
the pump. Be sure to tie wrap the fuel connections tight so they don't pop
off. Speaking from experience. And I did not want to mess with an off brand on
something as critical as this.

What brand filter did you use? And also how did you measure the current?

If I were you, I'd borrow a fuel pressure testing kit from ORiely or buy one, 20 bucks from
Harbor Freight. (You'll need plumbing tape on that also, not included)
see whats what. And if it's looking shady pick up a pump, looks to be about $200 for genuine.
A gas tank tool like this...https://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemD...iABEgKKHPD_BwE
Local auto parts store should have it as well.
Some tie wraps and a tie wrap tightener and keep it in the car along with some tools just in case.

Last edited by C230 Sport Coup; 09-11-2018 at 02:35 PM.
Old 09-11-2018, 02:38 PM
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I used an after market fuel filter from eBay.


Old 09-11-2018, 03:47 PM
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No brand name? I've used Bosch, Hengst and Mann...all have been fine.
Wow, holy crap you measured the current right off the pump,
is that safe to do? Thought perhaps you did it from the fuse.
Old 09-11-2018, 04:07 PM
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It's safe to do it from the pump.
I don't think the issue is from the fuel filter. I was hoping someone has information on what amp the pump should pull from this particular car.
Old 09-11-2018, 04:13 PM
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I doubt anyone has ever had the occasion to check it. I for one would
a. not connect the battery with the access cover open and run the pump and
b. never put anything electrical near the open fuel tank
So...good luck.

I don't pray much but I said a couple hail mary's before I did that job, and of course opened all the windows and the hatch to keep the air flow going, and a fire extinguisher handy. Also had someone keeping watch in case some idiot walked by with a smoke burning, divert them away.
Gas stations have signs saying cell phones can cause explosions...why wouldn't an Ampmeter
be a hazard? Well...I wouldn't do it.

Last edited by C230 Sport Coup; 09-11-2018 at 04:15 PM.
Old 09-11-2018, 04:22 PM
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Originally Posted by C230 Sport Coup
I doubt anyone has ever had the occasion to check it. I for one would
a. not connect the battery with the access cover open and run the pump and
b. never put anything electrical near the open fuel tank
So...good luck.

I don't pray much but I said a couple hail mary's before I did that job, and of course opened all the windows and the hatch to keep the air flow going, and a fire extinguisher handy. Also had someone keeping watch in case some idiot walked by with a smoke burning, divert them away.
Gas stations have signs saying cell phones can cause explosions...why wouldn't an Ampmeter
be a hazard? Well...I wouldn't do it.
I agree safety first.
If what you say is true then it shouldn't have electricity to run the pump.

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