What might be a sign of a failing fuel pump?

A sign of a failing fuel pump is difficulty starting the engine. This occurs because the fuel pump is responsible for delivering gasoline from the tank to the engine at the proper pressure. If the pump is failing, it may struggle to provide enough fuel for combustion, leading to starting issues. In some cases, you may hear unusual noises from the fuel tank, or the engine might hesitate or stall, indicating that the fuel system is not functioning properly.

Other options may not accurately indicate a failing fuel pump. For instance, engine smoothness typically suggests that the fuel system, including the pump, is functioning well. Fuel odor in the cabin can indicate leaks, but not directly relate to pump failure, while increased horsepower would not occur during pump failure—rather, if the pump isn't delivering fuel adequately, horsepower would likely decrease.