Maintaining the proper fuel level in your tank is where prevention of fuel pump wear and tear starts. While in operation, a fuel pump depends on the fuel in the tank to cool it down. Operating your car when the tank is below a quarter full will be forcing the pump to overheat - something that may reduce its lifespan by as much as 30%. If you happen to live in a really hot area, it is best you always have your tank at least half-full to avoid the overheating of the pump, especially during summer months.
Another critical step is regularly replacing the fuel filter. Over time, debris and contaminants build up inside the filter, forcing the pump to work harder-pushing fuel through the system. A very badly clogged filter can drop fuel flow as much as 25%, increasing the load on the pump. Replacement every 30,000 miles, or sooner in those cases of use where generally fuel quality is poor, will improve its life span and guarantee that optimal fuel pressure, usually between 40-60 psi, is maintained.
Good fuel also prevents wear and tear. High ethanol content fuels, such as E85, are more corrosive; hence, they speed up the deterioration process of fuel pumps in those vehicles which have not been designed to run on ethanol. Studies have documented that fuel system failures due to the running of high-ethanol fuels are up to 20% higher compared to standard gasoline. Using fuels with a lower ethanol content or additives that can reduce corrosion counterbalances this risk.
Another strategy involves minimizing short trips. A long drive keeps the fuel pump running constantly; frequent on and off cycles increase wear on this pump simply because of how many times the pump needs to pressurize the fuel system. In fact, for every 10 short drives, the pump might start and stop hundreds or thousands of times, increasing motor wear by about 15%.
This also helps to prevent the fuel pump from damage by keeping the electric system in good condition. The eroded wires, weak batteries, or ailing relays cause the pump to draw more current than needed, steadily reducing its efficiency-as much as 10% to 20%-over time. Consistent voltage of 12 volts or more from the battery and the looking for loose and damaged wiring will not allow the pump to stress too much.
For details on how to avoid wear and tear of the Fuel Pump, refer to Fuel Pump.