So I started hearing this weird clicking sound from inside the car this morning when I pulled into church. I wasn't sure what it was, so I ignored it. When I got home, I continued to hear the sound. With the car running, I got out and laid down near the back.

I hear what sounds like an electric motor running near the center back of the car, and every few seconds it clicks. When it clicks, it sounds like there is an extra load placed on it and you can hear it wind down then back up.

The only thing I can think of that would be back there is the fuel pump. From inside the car, it sounds like its coming from the tunk or back seat, more toward the passenger side.

WTF is this? I hear it at idle or very low RPM. Once I get going, I don't hear it anymore -- either it stops, or I can't hear it over all the other noise.

I'm wondering if this has something to do with the "sputtering" I'm having around 1600-2100RPM (see my other post).

hmmm.... engine seems to be running fine otherwise. I did drive a great deal this weekend, over 400 miles over icey interstate with lots of salt. Anyone want to wash my car for me?

-Chris

 

Yep all those symptoms point to the fuel pump. I believe its in the tank on the rear passenger side. You might wanna change your fuel filter too, clogged filters shorten pump life.

 

Wonder if this is related to the sputtering I'm having?

-Chris

 

it definitely could be a symptom of sputtering because it will reduce fuel pressure, change the filter first