There are two types of fuel pumps, mechanical fuel and electrical fuel
pump. A mechanical fuel pump produces low pressure (3 to 7 PSI) and is usually driven
by the engine and found on vehicles equipped with a carburetor. SCION xA 1987
and newer all use electric fuel pumps, because of the introduction of electronic fuel
injection. Electric fuel pumps produce higher pressure typically 10 to 50 PSI.
The purpose of your SCION xA fuel pump is to provide a constant
fuel flow and pressure to the engine. A fuel pump pushes fuel from the tank and sends it
under pressure to the injectors, which spray it into the engine’s intake manifold. The fuel
pressure is kept constant by a fuel pressure regulator.
SCION xA Fuel pumps require no
maintenance. Regular fuel filter changes can help extend the life of the electric fuel
pump on electronic fuel injection equipped vehicles. See your owner’s manual for fuel
filter service intervals. A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow shorting the life of the fuel
pump. You can also help prolong the life of the fuel pump by keeping as must fuel as
possible in the tank. Since fuel cools the pump, having plenty of fuel in the tank helps
keep the pump from overheating. A restricted fuel pump inlet strainer can starve the
pump, causing it to overheat and fail. Buying your gasoline from a reputable dealer can
eliminate this problem. Proper voltage at the fuel pump, and fuel pressure should be
checked before replacing the fuel pump. Consult your service manual for proper pressure
and testing procedures. Keeping your SCION xA fuel system properly
maintained is vital to your vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency.
A failing or faulty electric fuel pump can cause various symptoms
including a loud whine from the fuel tank area, hesitation when accelerating, and lack of
performance and stalling.
Ignoring these symptoms may lead to a total fuel
pump failure disabling the vehicle.
Gas pump, fuel transfer pump, EFP
SCION xA electric fuel pumps are almost always located inside the
fuel tank, but there are some vehicles where the pump may be located along the frame
rail or mounted to the body near the fuel tank. The fuel pump has a strainer at its inlet to
filter out fuel tank contaminants.
Depending on the year and options your SCION xA has, the
above information may not apply. Consult with a professional automotive
technician or manufacturer for specifics on your SCION xA