If you want a quiet drive with the least amount of distractions possible, a great place to start is within your own vehicle and one of the easiest changes you can make is by fitting a quiet electric fuel pump.
Luckily, there are plenty on the market that not only make your car quieter but will improve your car’s performance.
Of course, you can silence your car by using rubber spacers, but this can be quite a hassle. Why bother when there are so many quiet fuel pumps readily available?
We’ve selected some of the best on the market right now, as well as a handy buyer’s guide for features to look out for when buying the quietest electric fuel pump.
OUR TOP PICK
One of the most advanced pumps on the market, no other pump can compare to the high performance of this one. It’s so quiet, you can barely hear it over the engine.
Like other Carter fuel systems, the P4070 has an internally regulated pressure pump of about 7 pounds. You will most likely need a Holley pressure regulator as the pump can be hard on the seat/needle of a Holley carb.
This feature allows the fuel to flow freely inside the pump, reducing the chance of shaft seal leaks or burnout to zero.
What’s more, this pump is also fitted with a universal rotary vane-style pump that is compatible with both diesel and carbureted applications.
With premium OE fit, unrivalled vehicle coverage, and many more problem-solving features, this pump is versatile, durable, and performs incredibly well.
Pros
- Long-lasting: This durable pump will make for a quieter drive for years to come.
- Good terminal plugs: The pump’s terminal plugs are well-designed and solid.
- Easy to install: No need to call in a professional to fit this pump.
- Does not drain engine battery: This pump is hard-working without taking its toll on your engine.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with parts advertised: Some customers have noticed their pump did not come with the parts advertised.
EDITORS CHOICE
Delivering 4-7 psi of power, this budget-friendly pump from Holley will not only stand the test of time but run quietly and provide excellent results no matter what your vehicle.
The powerful 12 Volts pump has a great filter that will work on snowmobiles, jeeps, and tractors.
Not only is it versatile in terms of vehicles, but this pump is also compatible with all types of fuel and works for most carbureted operations. It is also easy to set up, with a straightforward installation process.
What’s more, this pump is designed to be so quiet that you will barely hear the pump when the engine is running.
Pros
- Powerful: With 300 Horsepower, this pump delivers a powerful performance.
- Reliable: This pump’s Solid State design means you’ll be using this pump for years to come.
- Easy to install: Simple 2 wire hookup means this pump can be installed in no time.
- Quiet: This 12 Volts, 4-7 psi pump is compatible with all fuels, and despite its power is still so quiet you can hardly hear it over your engine.
Cons
- Low PSI: May have lower psi than advertised.
BEST VALUE
The fuel flow of the Holley Blue Electric Pump means no pulsation and quiet performance, and this is all thanks to its lower house casting.
What’s more, as it only runs on three amps current there is no need to worry about the pump being too much for your vehicle.
The polished billet look of this pump is a welcome departure from ordinary, low-maintenance pumps.
But it's aesthetically pleasing design does not come at the expense of durability, as this pump is incredibly long-lasting.
This pump is also extremely versatile and can be used on a car, boat, or any other automobile (except aircraft).
Pros
- Unique design: This pump’s tumble-polished billet look sets this pump apart from the crowd.
- Quiet: The lower housing casting is not just designed for enhanced fuel flow, but quiet operation too.
- Kind to vehicles: As the motor only draws 3 amps current, this pump won’t take a toll on your vehicle.
- Versatile: This pump is incredibly versatile in that its fit is specific to each vehicle.
Cons
- Noise dependent on placement: One of the quietest electric fuel pumps we've reviewed but the noise level will depend on where you mount the pump.
RUNNER UP
Ideal for everyday use, the performance of this 12 Volts pump from Autobest will not dip in quality even after years of use.
It has a 5/16 inch beat type outlet hose as well as a 5/16 inch strainer outlet, as well as excellent ethanol tolerance that makes it perfect for modern fuel systems.
You can also rest easy knowing this pump is both reliable and durable, as it gets tested throughout the manufacturing process to make sure it ticks those boxes.
But the manufacturer has not only ensured that this pump is long-lasting but easy to set up.
This pump comes with installation hardware, with well-written and easy-to-follow instructions and a mountain bracket, as well as suggestions if you’re unsure where to mount the pump.
If you experience problems with your pump, you’re covered by a whole year of generous unlimited mileage warranty.
The manufacturer also promises to replace or repair the pump in case it doesn’t deliver on performance.
Pros
- Helpful instructions: Setting up this pump is incredibly simple with installation hardware, mounting bracket, instructions, and recommended mounting locations included.
- Guaranteed durability and reliability: Tested numerous times throughout the manufacturing process, you know you’re getting a reliable product.
- Superior ethanol tolerance for today's fuel systems: This heightened ethanol tolerance keeps up with today’s modern fuel systems.
Cons
- Only compatible with gasoline: If your vehicle does not run on gasoline you should consider a different pump.
Quietest Electric Fuel Pump Buying Guide
As we have seen above there are plenty of high-quality fuel pumps to choose from, but just because there are plenty of great products out there that doesn’t make choosing them any easier.
If this is your first time buying a quiet fuel pump, you may be wondering what features to look out for. Below, we’ll take a look at some key features you should keep in mind when buying the perfect pump for your vehicle.
Compatibility
This is arguably the most important feature. After all, you don’t want to make a possibly expensive purchase only to discover the pump you bought doesn’t fit your engine.
If you are buying your pump online, make sure to check out Amazon as they have details of every pump’s compatibility. This will make it a lot easier to know you’re getting the right pump.
However, if you’re buying from a physical store, ask a technician to explain the different sizes. Not only will they be able to tell you about the pump’s compatibility with your vehicle, but they can make suggestions based on other needs.
The safest option is to buy a universal electric fuel pump, as this is used on a wide range of vehicles both automotive and industrial, so it’s highly likely to be compatible with your vehicle.
Noise
Electric fuel pumps are appealing because they make for a quieter and safer drive, reducing distraction.
To buy a pump that runs as quietly as possible, pay attention to the product information provided by the manufacturer as this will contain details of noise level and the measures they have put in place to reduce the noise.
Purpose
While looking for a pump, it’s important to consider what exactly you will be using it for. No matter what you’re using it for though, whether it’s on a heavy-duty machine or a small vehicle that you don’t use often, there will be a pump out there for it.
It’s still advisable though, to look for a pump and choose one that suits your needs. After all, you don’t want to buy a pump that isn’t powerful enough and will lead to a disappointing performance.
Installation
Every fuel pump is slightly different and so will have different installation procedures.
Some units are very easily installed and don’t require any professional help to be installed, while some others are complicated and may require a helping hand.
Obviously, it is ideal to opt for a pump that you can install yourself, but if your needs require a more complex fuel pump, you should definitely consult a professional to make sure it’s installed properly.
Durability
All of us want to get value for money, so you should consider a pump that promises to be long-lasting.
Of course, many brands will promise durability but one of the best ways to know you’re getting a durable product is by going for a reputable brand, and brands that offer a lifetime warranty.
Reliability
The key to reliability is if the product delivers in the long run as well as the short run.
To know more about a product’s reliability, we recommend looking up reviews online so you can get a better idea of how a pump will perform before you buy it.
Fuel type
Most pumps on the market are compatible with different fuel types.
However, there are still a few that are fuel-specific, so you must keep an eye out for a pump that is compatible with your vehicle.
Budget
There are plenty of pumps out there in a wide range of prices, so you’re bound to find one that fits your budget.
But while there are plenty of good-quality, budget pumps out there, it’s always worth pushing your budget a little bit to get a high-quality pump that meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my electric fuel pump so loud?
Your electric fuel pump may be loud because it is damaged. A damaged fuel pump might make a loud, whining noise that will come from your gas tank.
The pump may also make this noise if you’re low on fuel, or if the fuel is contaminated. Normally, your pump should just make a low hum. A loud whining noise usually indicates a problem.
How can I make my fuel pump quieter?
One of the most common causes of a noisy tank is simply low fuel. Try to fill up your tank before the fuel runs completely out, as this creates extra work for the pump and puts additional pressure on its components. It’s recommended to not drive with a gas tank that’s below one-fourth full.
Your tank may also be contaminated, usually by water. You should call a mechanic to check this. When water-contaminated fuel reaches your vehicle, it’ll usually make a loud grinding noise.
It may also cause the vehicle to stall, and it may be hard to start the vehicle. It’s important to take the vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you suspect the fuel may be contaminated, as it could destroy the engine completely.
You can also replace the fuel pump. Pumps don’t last forever, and as they are such hard-working components of your vehicles, naturally, they will need to be replaced from time to time. It’s better to replace the whole pump than to fix individual parts.
A loss of pressure could also be responsible. Warning signs of low pressure include a whining and stalling sound. Even though your vehicle will probably keep going for another few seconds after you hear these sounds, it is still recommended to fix the fuel pump.
A weak pump, a clogged pump inlet strainer, a restricted fuel line, incorrect tank venting, or a dirty fuel filter are some of the most common causes of low pressure.
Our last solution is to insulate the fuel pump with soundproofing material. If you have investigated and tried all the solutions above and you’re still hearing a whirring sound then maybe the pump is just naturally loud. Luckily, a fix for this is covering the area with soundproofing material.
This is particularly beneficial for electric fuel pumps as they are a lot noisier than mechanical pumps. Even the quietest electric fuel pump can be made quieter with a bit of soundproofing material.