Engine Repair: Signs Your Pressure Regulator Is Malfunctioning
Your vehicle comprises a wide assortment of components that need to functions in tandem for the efficiency of your vehicle. One of the components that would affect the performance of your vehicle if it is malfunctioning is the fuel pressure regulator. As the name suggests, this component functions to ensure your vehicle is receiving fuel at an adequate pressure, redirecting the excessive fuel back into the fuel tank. Below are some of the signs that you should be wary of that would show your fuel pressure regulator requires mechanical attention.
The vehicle's spark plugs have turned become sooty
When carrying out an inspection on your vehicle, the first thing you should do is take out the spark plugs and examine them. If the ends have become blackened, it would be a sign that you may be driving with a damaged fuel pressure regulator. This is because it is a sure fire sign that there is soot forming on your spark plugs, which is indicative of burning. It should be noted that you may have to replace your spark plugs when you are getting a new pressure regulator. This is because the spark plugs could have become compromised while you have been driving with a damaged regulator.
The engine has decreased performance
Another symptom of a damaged fuel regulator would be a steady decrease in your engine's performance. A telltale sign of this would be when your vehicle is idling but you find that the engine is still having trouble running smoothly. If you do not change your regulator in good time, you will start experiencing problems with starting your vehicle too. This may start with it taking numerous turns before it can start up but could lead to complete engine breakdown. When replacing your fuel pressure regulator, you may also want to consider changing the oil filters to ensure that contaminants do not compromise the new regulator.
The exhaust smoke has turned black
The colour of your exhaust smoke is one of the easiest ways to tell if your vehicle has developed mechanical problems. Regular exhaust smoke should be either white or a light grey colour. Black smoke from the tail pipe is never a good sign as it is a sure fire indication that there is something seriously off kilter with the engine oil. If you begin to notice black plumes of smoke coming from the tailpipe, it would be advisable to have a mechanic have a look at your fuel regulator to determine whether it has acquired damage.