Symptoms of Bad Fuel Tank Selector Valve With Solution

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The fuel tank won’t work during the start, faulty motor, clogged valves, and dirty filter;  are the most common symptoms of a bad fuel tank selector valve. 

Most users faced these issues. This post is designed to let you know what symptoms the drivers face about a bad fuel tank selector valve and its malfunctioning. 

Don’t fret! We won’t only do this part of the task. Instead, we’ll share tips and tricks on diagnosing the problems and solving them from the eye view of pro drivers and mechanical experience. 

Feel excited. Let’s start. 

Fuel Tank Selector Valve Troubleshooting 

Before handling a machine, or mechanical component, it’s better to have a clear idea. As a pro car enthusiast, we know you know what a fuel tank selector valve is. 

But, think about your other bro, who doesn’t know much. Here, we touch a little bit and then jump to the point. 

What Is A Fuel Tank Selector Valve?

Most cars have dual fuel tanks to ensure no scarcity of fuel. One is used as a primary tank, and another is secondary. A selector valve is a motorized component that transfers fuel from the primary tank to the secondary tank of a car to use in times of urgency. 

How Does A Fuel Tank Selector Valve Work?

The working mechanism of this valve is so simple. There are two types of valves, 3 ports (2 right and 1 left), and 6 ports (2 right, 2 left, and 2 upsides). All of these ports and valves connect both tanks. 

The car dashboard has a switch connected to the valve selector to control fuel between the tanks. By pressing the switch, you can decide which tank’s fuel the engine burns to run. 

Symptoms Of Bad Fuel Tank Selector Valve 

Many small tools are related to flawlessly working a selector valve. So, it’s tough to determine what makes it worse. However, it’s better to start searching the trouble from easier to harder. So that you find the problem easily and solve it. If that happens, fortunately, you don’t need to crawl down further.  

Problem 1: Overfilling One Tank 

The main job of the selector valve is to maintain fuel pressure between the tanks. But, some users said

• The primary tank is operating, and another isn’t. So one tank overfills, but the other is empty. 

Probable Reasons

• If the valve switch isn’t shut correctly, that fails to stop fuel passing. In that case, the tank may overflow due to an oversupply of oil. 

• Clogged valves or fuel filters fail to bypass adequate oil in the secondary tank.
• Broken or loose wiring can be the culprit.
• A leakage tank can also be the reason for overfilling.  
• A malfunctioning motor is also on the list. 

Potential Solutions

• First, you must inspect whether the switch is properly shut down. If yes, go to the next step. If not, ensure proper shutdown. 
• Check if the valves and filter are clogged or not. For clogged valves, clean them to unclog and it is the ultimate solution. 
• Inspect the wiring of the valve. If you find any wire getting loose somehow, tighten them. For broken wires, you should repair them. 
• Check the tank for leakage identification. If found, solve the issue. 
• If the motor is faulty, replacement is a better option.

Problem 2: Malfunctioning Fuel Tank

In most cases, the users find the fuel tank malfunctioning if they buy a second-hand car. Basically, their complaint is

• The valves stop working altogether; consequently, the tank won’t function as it does. 

Probable Reason

• The first owner of your car may disconnect the valve selector connection. 

Potential solution

• Check if the complete connection of the valve is disconnected or not. If that is discovered, reconnect it. 

Problem 3: Not Responding During Start

As soon as you press the valve switch, generally, it starts to respond. But, a lot of users are found in some cases.

• The selector valve won’t respond during the start.

Probable Reason

• Sometimes, the valve works excellently. But sometimes it takes time to respond, especially during starting. It is the indication of a faulty valve.  

Potential solution

• If the selector valve is not working correctly when starting, you must change the valve. Check this video, and learn the practical way to replace it. 

Fuel Tank Selector Valve Replacement Cost? 

Replacing a bad fuel tank selector valve may cost you approximately $50 to $150. The cost will vary based on three factors. Such as

• The price of the new selector valve, on average, is $30 to $100. 
• The mechanical charge, if you don’t change it yourself. 
• If you do this, you need no bucks for a mechanical charge. But you have to manage some time and tools. 

So, nobody can determine the fixed cost to change your existing fuel tank selector valve. 

Be Efficient In Driving

Taking care of your fuel tank selector valve helps you to enjoy smooth, efficient, and hassle-free driving by maintaining proper oil pressure. 

You shouldn’t ignore any symptoms of a bad fuel tank selector valve. Rather, take action as early as possible after facing any challenge with it.  Because the fuel tank selector valve problem appearing in the middle of trips is completely disgusting. So, be careful not to fall into that situation.