Hi Dawn,
Running out of gas and its after effects can be so much fun. Sorry to hear about your problem. You are on target wanting to check the filter and pump. 'Bottom of the Barrel' sediment, debris, etc become more concentrated as the tank nears empty. They have no place to go but the pump and filter. These situations can drain batteries too (cranking engine for long periods). If you feel this is happening, arrange for a jump, just in case. Be prepared.
There are a few possibilities depending on your engine.
If your engine is fuel injected, the fuel pump and filter is in the gas tank and difficult to service. Most time consuming , difficult and expensive. So lets save this for last.
Easiest, quickest and least expensive ($3.00 max) fix first. I'm hoping your engine is carbureted and the gas you just put in hasn't made it to the pump yet. We're going to help it. Actually we're going to get your engine to help it. Get a can of starting ether or carb cleaner. Spray a little into the opening of the air cleaner (1/2 sec spritz). Try and start the car. It will likely start and die the first time. Try it again. may take a few shots until it the fuel makes it from tank to engine..
Didn't want to inundate you with a lot of 'What if's'. Kept it short with the most likely scenario. If it doesn't keep running on it's own after 4 or 5 times, comment me back and tell me what happened. I'll need some more info to help you, but we will get you going. OK?
Good luck Dawn
Mike
Your fuel pump is in the fuel tank. and your fuel in the tank is what cools you pump . i have seen alot of fuel pump failure when people run very low on fuel.
when you turn on your keyswitch you should hear a hum of the pump . before replacement you should always check voltage to the pump. to make sure.
Your problem may be one of the following:
First check or just replace the fuel filter. Usually located under the car in front of the rear axle, drivers side.
Next, the fuel pump may be worn out. Usually they get loud or stop working (running).
Next, check the fuel pressure regulator. Usually located on the front fuel rail, drivers side.
Is the vacuum line attached? Not leaking or rotted?
Also, do you smell a strong fuel odor when it won't start? May be one or more stuck-open injectors, or the coil pack is bad.
Checking these in the order listed will more than likely fix your problem.
The clicking noise indicates the battery can no longer run the starter, which also means the fuel pump won't run either.
It could be a fuel issue. How old is the fuel filter? Can you hear the pump run for a few seconds when you turn the key on? Try turning the key to ON without trying to start engine three times waiting for the pump to stop running each time. Then try to start the engine. If it starts, Its a form of Vapor lock caused by the extreme heat we have had lately, and a weak fuel pump.
If none of this works, try a new fuel filter first. From there have someone check the fuel pressure regulator and then the pump. If you are in need of a new pump, take my word for it and spend the money to get one from a Dealer, and not from your favorite parts store. Most parts store parts are made in China and they are JUNK.
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