Ask an expert

My previous vehicle, a 1991 Nissan Bluebird, developed a sudden unexpected fault with the fuel pump relay when the clock struck 200,000km several years ago.

My current vehicle, a 1994 Ford Laser, has just reach this milestone and I am wondering if I should replace the fuel pump and/or pump relay as a precaution to avoid another inconvenient or embarrassing breakdown.

Is this a good idea or would I potentially be replacing a component which may have a lot of life left in it? I only intend to keep this vehicle for another year or so, so I definitely don't want to over-maintain it.

Alastair

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 8 September 2008

I feel I'm in a no win situation here. If I say one thing the opposite is bound to happen especially at 200,000km's!!

Best advice I can give is - 'if it's not broke then don't fix it'.

Anything can happen over the next year or so, the best you can do is keep up a regular service regime and simply keep on driving.

What happens to one make / model may never happen to another.

Keep up your AA Membership it may be the cheapest mechanic you ever invested in.