If you’re like me and trying to keep your car running without breaking the bank, replacing parts can sometimes feel like a gamble. Recently, I found myself needing a new fuel pump, and like many people, I wanted something reliable but affordable.
After doing a bit of research, I came across the Autobest Fuel Pump. I was initially hesitant, but with its affordable price tag and decent reviews, I decided to give it a try.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience with the Autobest fuel pump, along with a detailed breakdown of its pros, cons, and maintenance tips.
Why I Chose Autobest Fuel Pump?
When I first started shopping for a replacement fuel pump, Autobest caught my attention mainly because of its competitive pricing. Unlike other brands that could easily cost over $100, Autobest came in at just around $20–$30.
At first, this seemed too good to be true, but with a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty and claims of superior ethanol tolerance, I figured it was worth the risk. Plus, the reviews I found online suggested that, when paired with the right installation practices, it could perform well.
My Installation Experience
I installed the Autobest fuel pump on my older Honda Accord, a car that’s been with me for quite some time.
Now, if you’ve ever replaced a fuel pump before, you know it can be a bit of a hassle, but this one was relatively straightforward.
After pulling out the old pump and swapping in the new one, I decided to run a quick test before putting everything back together.
I reconnected the electric and cycled the ignition to make sure the pump was working.
Thankfully, it started up smoothly and began spewing fuel into the bucket I had ready to catch it.
Important Tip: Always replace the fuel strainer with a new one. Reusing an old strainer can starve the pump of fuel and lead to premature failure. For a couple of extra bucks, it’s not worth skipping this crucial step.
- First Impressions
Once installed, the Autobest fuel pump was quiet, smooth, and had no trouble pushing fuel to the engine. I even took my car for a long drive, racking up about 500 miles over a weekend road trip, and everything worked perfectly.
No strange noises, no performance issues—just a solid fuel pump doing its job.
Pros of Autobest Fuel Pumps
- Affordability: Hands down, the biggest selling point of Autobest is its price. Compared to other brands, this is one of the most cost-effective fuel pumps on the market. I paid less than $30 for the pump and the strainer, which is unheard of for a fuel pump with a warranty.
- Warranty: Autobest offers a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty. For a pump at this price point, having that peace of mind is great. If it dies prematurely, you’re covered, and that’s a nice safety net.
- Ease of Installation: In my experience, this pump was simple to install, especially if you’ve done any DIY car work before. Just make sure you follow the instructions carefully, take your time, and have the proper tools ready. Even if you’re not an expert, this is a doable job with a bit of patience.
- Low Noise Level: Unlike some fuel pumps that can make a lot of noise (especially in older cars), the Autobest pump ran quietly. After installing it in my Honda Accord, I didn’t notice any excessive humming or buzzing from the fuel tank.
- Ethanol Tolerance: With today’s fuel systems being more reliant on ethanol-blended fuels, having a pump that’s compatible with higher ethanol content is crucial. Autobest claims superior ethanol tolerance, which means it’s less likely to fail prematurely due to ethanol-induced corrosion.
Cons of Autobest Fuel Pumps
- Strainer Sold Separately: One downside to the Autobest fuel pump is that the strainer is sold separately. While this isn’t a huge deal, it’s something to keep in mind when ordering. You don’t want to reuse an old strainer, as it can lead to fuel starvation, causing the new pump to fail prematurely.
- Long-Term Durability: While my experience with the Autobest pump has been positive so far, some reviews mention that these pumps may not last as long as higher-end brands. I’ve seen reports of them failing after a year or two of use, especially if proper installation guidelines aren’t followed. Time will tell how long mine will last, but for now, it’s working great.
- Limited Application: This pump might not be ideal for all vehicles, especially those requiring more robust fuel delivery systems. If you have a high-performance or modified car, you may want to consider a more heavy-duty pump designed for higher fuel flow rates.
Comparison With Other Brands
To give you a clearer picture, I’ll compare Autobest with a few popular brands in the market:
- TruGrade Fuel Pump
TruGrade is a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers, much like Autobest.
While both brands are known for their affordability, TruGrade tends to fall short in terms of long-term reliability.
TruGrade pumps often work fine out of the box but may show signs of wear sooner than you’d expect, especially under high-stress conditions.
Autobest, on the other hand, holds up better with its 12-month warranty and higher ethanol tolerance, making it a better option if you’re looking for a more reliable budget pump.
Plus, Autobest’s commitment to quality with its ISO/TS 16949: 2009 certification gives it an edge over TruGrade in terms of manufacturing standards.
- Carter Fuel Pump
Carter fuel pumps are known for their mid-range price and strong reputation for reliability.
Unlike Autobest, which focuses primarily on budget-conscious buyers, Carter aims to provide a balance between price and performance.
Carter pumps tend to last longer and offer a more consistent fuel flow, which can be crucial for vehicles requiring more fuel-intensive operations.
However, if your car doesn’t require a high-flow pump and you’re looking to save a significant amount of money, Autobest could still be the better choice.
While Carter pumps might last longer, the cost difference is substantial, making Autobest a more practical option for many DIY enthusiasts.
- Delphi Fuel Pump
Delphi fuel pumps are considered premium options, offering exceptional build quality and durability.
These pumps are designed for longevity and can withstand harsher conditions and higher ethanol blends without issues.
However, Delphi pumps come with a premium price tag, often costing two to three times as much as an Autobest pump.
If you’re looking for top-tier performance and durability and don’t mind paying extra, Delphi is a solid choice.
That said, for the average driver who just needs a functional, reliable pump for everyday use, Autobest provides great value at a fraction of the cost. While Delphi may offer more peace of mind in the long run, Autobest is perfect for those looking to balance cost and performance without sacrificing reliability.
Tips For Your Autobest Fuel Pump
To get the most out of your fuel pump and extend its lifespan, here are some key maintenance tips:
- Replace the Strainer: As I mentioned earlier, always replace the strainer when installing a new pump. This will prevent dirt and debris from clogging the pump and ensure it’s getting the fuel it needs.
- Keep Your Fuel Tank Clean: Over time, dirt and sediment can accumulate at the bottom of your fuel tank. If these particles are sucked into the pump, they can cause it to fail prematurely. Consider cleaning out your fuel tank if it hasn’t been done in a while, especially if you’re installing a new pump.
- Monitor Fuel Pressure: If you notice that your vehicle is struggling to start or there’s a noticeable drop in performance, it’s a good idea to check the fuel pressure. Low fuel pressure could indicate a problem with the pump, and catching it early can prevent bigger issues down the line.
- Use High-Quality Fuel: While Autobest pumps are designed to handle ethanol-blended fuels, using high-quality fuel can still make a difference in their longevity. Try to avoid low-grade gas from untrustworthy sources, as it may contain impurities that could damage the pump.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Autobest fuel pumps are manufactured in China, but the company has been operating in the United States since 2007. They use advanced technology and rigorous testing processes to ensure their products meet high standards.
There are several reputable fuel pump brands, including Bosch, Delphi, and Carter. Bosch is known for its durability, while Delphi offers reliable performance at a mid-range price. However, if you’re looking for an affordable option, Autobest offers good value for the price.
The lifespan of a cheap fuel pump can vary depending on the brand and installation process. While some budget pumps like Autobest come with a 12-month warranty, they may not last as long as premium brands like Bosch or Delphi. Proper installation and maintenance can help extend their lifespan.
Yes, the brand of fuel pump can impact performance and longevity. Higher-end brands like Bosch and Delphi typically offer better quality and longer-lasting pumps, but budget-friendly options like Autobest can still provide reliable service if installed and maintained correctly.
Conclusion: Is Autobest Worth It?
In my experience, the Autobest fuel pump is a solid choice for anyone looking to replace their fuel pump without breaking the bank. Sure, it may not have the same long-term durability as higher-end brands like Bosch or Delphi, but for the price, it performs well.
If you’re on a budget and need a reliable fuel pump that gets the job done, Autobest is worth considering.
Just be sure to follow the installation instructions carefully, replace the strainer, and take your time during the install process. So far, my Autobest pump is running smoothly, and I’m happy with my purchase. I’ll keep an eye on it over time, but as of now, it’s been a fantastic value.
