• A fuel pressure regulator is an automotive component that helps the fuel injectors achieve proper fuel atomization by maintaining constant fuel pressure. There are several signs and symptoms of a faulty fuel pressure regulator. Being able to properly recognize these will help you know when to get this part replaced.
  
  

Fuel Pressure Problems

• There are two fuel pressure problems that can occur when a fuel pressure regulator is faulty. In some instances, there will be excessive fuel pressure, and in some cases, there will be a decrease in fuel pressure. There may also be a delay in the building of fuel pressure.
  
  

Smoke

• Thick black smoke can be present when a fuel pressure regulator is faulty. This smoke will be seen when the vehicle is started and will be coming from the exhaust. Oil may also come out of the engine when the vehicle is started as well. This is known as rich engine running.
  
  

Stalling and Sputtering

• A faulty fuel pressure regulator can cause a vehicle's engine to sputter or stumble when it is running. It may also run roughly and stall out shortly after it is started. In some instances, the engine will not start at all.
  
  

Noise

• Noise can be heard when this vehicle part is faulty. The noise can be loud at times, and the noise will be coming from the fuel pump.