How much gas do you typically have in your tank? Some drivers are sticklers about it, constantly topping off their fuel throughout the week. Others, however, may let the tank get dangerously low, which can take a serious toll on the fuel pump. AAW Auto Parts has been Pasco, WA’s go-to supplier of car parts since 1996, and they've seen the substantial damage that can occur in these situations. Here, they explain why you should keep at least a quarter tank of gas in your vehicle at all times. 

How Can You Protect Your Fuel Pump?

You might not think about your fuel pump until the worst case scenario. As the name suggests, it's an essential part that pumps fuel from the tank to the engine. In many modern vehicles, you'll find an electric fuel pump within the tank, where fuel helps keep it at a cool temperature. When fuel falls below a certain level, the fuel pump will take in air, generating more heat in the process. This may lead to overheating, which will cause the fuel pump to wear down or potentially fail.

With that in mind, you can see how important it is to keep at least a quarter tank of gas in your vehicle at all times. This is especially vital during extremely hot or cold months, which tend to leave fuel pumps more prone to failure. Those who drive until their fuel gauge is at E may end up paying for it later when a badly worn pump calls for a complete replacement. On the other hand, those who keep their gas at an acceptable level throughout the year may never have to worry about the state of their fuel pump.

What Are the Signs of Failure?

A few key warning signs include a car that's difficult to start, hesitation while driving, and issues with overheating. If you run into these or other related problems, take your vehicle in for inspection as soon as possible. 

Most drivers can avoid a damaged or failing fuel pump with a few more visits to their local gas station. When the time comes for a replacement, get in touch with the family-owned and -operated AAW Auto Parts. They excel at finding the precise parts their customers need so they can get back on the road as soon as possible. Head to their website to learn more about their services, and call (509) 547-6000 for more information.