1997 fuel pump problems

[Chad Mason]

I have a 1997 Blazer, usually the fuel pump will make a whining noise when I get ready to start the engine. The last couple of days the fuel pump has sounded weaker. And it is taking 3-4 start cycles to start the engine. I'm guessing that the fuel pump is getting weak and having a hard time getting fuel to the engine the first time. Once the engine is running I have no problems. Could this be a faulty fuel pump.

[old_master]

Provided the "service engine soon" light is not illuminated, from the symptom you are describing, more than likely the fuel pump needs replacement. To be sure, it would be advisable to have the fuel pressure tested first, as the pump assembly is quite costly to replace.

[tom3]

Sure sounds like the normal fuel pump failure. Try cycling the ignition key off and on a couple times to build up the fuel pressure. Not a cheap repair, the pump comes in a complete assembly and I think it's a dealer only item still.

[mike2004tct]

You could have a clogged/dirty fuel filter also. Much cheaper than the pump assembly ($320.00 at Napa, $450 from a dealer). As stated above, find someone who can check your pressure before dropping the fuel tank to replace the pump.