I'm getting mixed information from two different shops and really need a point in the right direction.

I have a 2000 Ford Escort ZX2 and within the past couple weeks, the check engine light has come on and my car is idling very roughly, to the point of dying whenever I slow down using the brakes (rather than downshifting to slow down). The car starts right back up after I come to a stop, though, so I'm convinced that the issue is with the fuel system.

I had my fuel filter replaced one year ago and tried a fuel injector cleaner to no avail. The car has nearly 150,000 miles at this point, so I'm fairly certain that my problem surrounds the fuel pump.

I have contacted Pep Boys and was given a price of $318 for replacement (about $75 in labor and the rest in parts). When I contacted another shop, I was told that the cost would be about $800, though, as they claim the fuel pump is inside of the fuel tank.

When searching the web, I've seen both under the back seat and inside of the fuel tank, so I'm very confused at this point, so I'm turning to you for help.

a> Do the symptoms I'm describing sound like a faulty fuel pump?

b> Is the fuel pump inside of the tank or under the seat for my vehicle?

Thanks!!

 

It would be best to have someone check the fuel presure before paying out that kind of money for a new fuel pump. It could be something simple like needing new plug, plug wires, it could just be out of time, MAF sensor could need cleaning, IAC valve could be bad or need cleaning. Do some research before jumping into putting in a new fuel pump. $800. is way overpriced for a fuel pump and installation. I've replaced the fuel pump a couple times in my '88 Escort and you do have to drop the tank to replace it, I can do it in less than 1/2 a day. Another thing they are probably selling you the complete fuel pump and float assembly, you can take the old fuel pump off the assembly and replace only the pump, much cheaper. The pump (without the assembly) would probably be less than $50. at Advance or Auto Zone.