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Flint's Auto Repair Tech Question:
I was driving on a local Athol road and my vehicle started sputtering. And then the engine finally quit and I couldn't get it started. I was towed to a shop in Athol and found out I had to replace my fuel pump.

What could I have done to have saved my fuel pump?

Flint's Auto Repair Answer:
This is a tough one for Athol residents because there isn't any maintenance recommended for fuel pumps. They're inside the fuel tank and you really can't get to them without removing the tank. But Athol drivers can do some things to make their job easier so they last a little longer.

A lot of vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter on their gas line. This filters out dirt and rust from the gas tank before it gets to the engine. Replacing a clogged fuel filter as recommended reduces the strain on your fuel pump.

Many newer vehicles driving around Athol have their fuel filter inside the fuel tank so it cannot be changed. A good tip for MA residents is to not run the fuel tank too low – this can cause fuel starvation that excessively wears the pump. Also, you can't go wrong using good quality gas with high levels of detergent. This helps prevent the buildup of varnish and gum all along the fuel system.

A professional fuel system cleaning will clean fuel injectors and help remove carbon deposits from the valves and combustion chamber.

All these things improve fuel economy and increase performance. Ask your friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Flint's Auto Repair service advisor if a fuel system cleaning is recommended.

Give us a call

Flint's Auto Repair
990 South Main Street
Athol, MA 01331
978-249-4246

At Flint's Auto Repair we install quality NAPA replacement parts.