1993 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Logo
Posted on May 08, 2009
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Fuel pump/filter? Whiney noise coming from where the gas tank is (fuel pump)? Car takes forever to start like its starved for gas. almost zero acceleration, have to pump the gas pedal to get it going, if I hold it down it doesn't accel. Is it the pump or the filter???? Help!

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Darran Hatten

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  • Posted on May 08, 2009
Darran Hatten
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It sounds like it could be the pump, but if you don't know the history of the filter, just change it. It might sound silly but make sure there is enough gas in the tank, the pumps normaly whine when they pump air e.g. no fuel. If the problem is not solved after changing the fuel filter (15 minute job) then when you have the fuel pump out check that the fuel pickup is attached because the problem may lie there. When you change the fuel filter let the fuel drain from the fuel rail (engine side) just incase there is an obstruction of debris there, this would be rare but I have seen it.

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I would lean towards the pump. Some fuel pumps can be expensive, and it can be dangerous to work on fuel tanks, make sure your fuel tank is empty if you are going to remove it (they are deceivingly heavy)

from the description you gave, I would say your fuel pump is dying, and starting to fail. The whining noise is it struggling to do its job. You might find someone that can service the fuel pump (clean it, inspect it, fix worn out components and contacts, otherwise get it replaced.

My recommendation: Get a service technician (aka Mechanic) to take a look and ensure it is the fuel pump that has failed before you go buy a new one (because it may be a couple hundred dollars).
I hope this helps, Let me know what you find out.

PS - If you have never replaced the fuel filter, do it, they are rather cheap and easy to replace.

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  • Posted on Jul 16, 2009
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If you know you need the fuel pump...try to buy it online. I priced a pump and filter sock at approx. $130 (plus tax) at Auto Zone. Bought it on line..shipped in 2 days to the house..for $36!!!!! Works like a champ.

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