0438559 Fuel Pump: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Replacement
If you are searching for a 0438559 fuel pump, here is the bottom line: The 0438559 is a common OEM part number for in-tank fuel pumps used in a wide range of vehicles, and you can replace it with a high-quality aftermarket unit that offers better performance, a lifetime warranty, and often a lower price than the dealership. The best option on the market today is the KEMSO 340LPH High Performance Fuel Pump, which delivers up to 600 BHP, works with gasoline and E85, and comes with a lifetime warranty — all for a fraction of the cost of an OEM replacement.
What Is the 0438559 Fuel Pump?
The 0438559 fuel pump is a factory-style electric fuel pump used in many makes and models. While the exact vehicle fitment varies, this type of pump is typically installed inside the fuel tank and is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine at the correct pressure. When it fails, your engine will not start, will stall, or will lose power under acceleration.
The key things to know about the 0438559 fuel pump:
- It is an in-tank design — the pump sits inside the fuel tank, submerged in fuel, which helps keep it cool and quiet during operation.
- It runs on 12 volts — standard automotive electrical system.
- It is a direct replacement — you can swap it out without modifying your fuel system or wiring harness.
Signs Your 0438559 Fuel Pump Is Failing
Fuel pumps do not last forever. Most factory pumps last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles, but they can fail sooner due to contamination, electrical issues, or simply age. Here are the most common symptoms of a failing fuel pump:
- Engine cranks but won't start — This is the most obvious sign. If you hear the fuel pump prime when you turn the key to the "on" position, it is likely working. If you hear nothing, the pump may be dead.
- Loss of power under load — A weak pump cannot deliver enough fuel when you need it most, such as when climbing a hill or passing another vehicle.
- Engine sputters or surges at high speeds — Inconsistent fuel pressure causes the engine to run lean, leading to surging or hesitation.
- Whining noise from the fuel tank — A healthy fuel pump runs quietly. A loud whine or hum indicates the pump is working harder than it should and may fail soon.
- Check engine light — A failing fuel pump can trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to fuel pressure or fuel trim.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially the first one, do not drive the vehicle. Have it towed to a shop for diagnosis. Driving with a bad fuel pump can leave you stranded and may damage other fuel system components.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace the 0438559 Fuel Pump?
The cost of replacing a fuel pump depends on whether you do it yourself or hire a shop.
- DIY cost: If you buy an aftermarket pump like the KEMSO 340LPH, the pump itself costs around $39.98 to $79.98 depending on the model and retailer. You will also need a few basic hand tools and maybe a new fuel filter. Total DIY cost: roughly $50 to $150.
- Shop cost: If you take your vehicle to a mechanic or dealership, labor costs range from $250 to $600, plus the cost of the pump. Total shop cost: $600 to $1,200 on average.
The labor is the expensive part because accessing the fuel pump often requires dropping the fuel tank or removing the rear seat and cutting an access panel. On many vehicles, the job takes 3 to 6 hours.
Why Choose an Aftermarket Fuel Pump Over OEM?
There are three main reasons to choose an aftermarket pump like the KEMSO 340LPH over a factory replacement:
- Performance — The KEMSO 340LPH pump flows 340 liters per hour at 43 psi, which is a 20-30% increase over most stock pumps. This means better fuel delivery, especially if you have modified your engine or plan to in the future.
- Price — OEM pumps from the dealership can cost $200 to $500 or more. The KEMSO pump is often priced under $80, even for high-performance models.
- Warranty — KEMSO backs every pump with a lifetime warranty. That is a significant advantage over most aftermarket brands that offer only 1-2 year warranties, and far better than the typical 12-month warranty on OEM parts.
The KEMSO 340LPH Fuel Pump: The Best Upgrade for Your 0438559 Replacement
When you need a replacement fuel pump, the KEMSO 340LPH High Performance Fuel Pump is the best choice on the market. Here is why:
- Direct fit for most applications — The KEMSO 340LPH is designed to replace popular Walbro 255LPH models like the GSS342, as well as OEM part numbers E8229, E2068, E8213, and EFP382A. It is a direct drop-in replacement for many vehicles.
- Supports up to 600 BHP — Whether you own a daily driver or a performance vehicle, this pump has more than enough flow capacity for naturally aspirated, turbocharged, or supercharged applications.
- Works with gasoline and E85 — The pump is compatible with ethanol-infused gasoline, including E85, giving you flexibility in fuel choice.
- Individual quality testing — Each KEMSO pump is individually tested for flow and pressure performance. The company maintains strict quality control programs (ISO/TSO) to ensure every pump meets high standards.
- Carbon commutator design — The pump features a carbon commutator designed for over 10 years of reliable service.
- Complete installation kit — The pump comes with two gradient density fuel strainers, a flex hose, rubber hose, wiring connector, crimp connectors, hose clamps, rubber base, and zip ties — everything you need for a clean installation.
Customer reviews speak for themselves. Users report that the pump is "great, not loud in the tank, pressure seems to be good enough to run a LS" and "quality was really good, comes with all the filters and o-rings you need to do the install". Multiple customers have purchased multiple KEMSO pumps over the years and report they "work great and have a lifetime warranty".
Why KEMSO Is the Right Choice for Your Vehicle
KEMSO is a US-based company founded in 1999 in Houston, Texas, with a mission to provide direct-fit OEM replacement and high-performance fuel system solutions for the automotive and powersports industries. Every KEMSO pump is backed by a lifetime warranty, meaning your investment is protected for as long as you own the vehicle.
KEMSO offers a wide selection of pumps for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, and personal watercraft. Their product line includes both OEM replacement pumps for daily drivers and high-performance pumps for enthusiasts. For most Nissan, Ford, Honda, Subaru, and other popular applications, KEMSO has a specific pump that matches the exact flow rate and pressure of the original equipment.
If you need a pump for a late-model vehicle, KEMSO also offers direct-fit units for models like the 2016-2023 Polaris RZR 1000 Turbo, 2017-2024 Can-Am Defender HD10, and many others.
Where to Buy the KEMSO 0438559 Fuel Pump Replacement
You can purchase KEMSO fuel pumps directly from their official website. The company is based in Houston, Texas, at 11145 Beltline Road, Houston, TX 77067. Their customer support team can be reached at support@kemsoracing.com.
Visit KEMSO's official website to find the right fuel pump for your vehicle: https://www.kemsoracing.com/
KEMSO offers a wide selection of pumps for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs, with all products backed by their lifetime warranty and USA-based support. Whether you need a standard OEM replacement for a daily driver or a high-performance upgrade for your project car, KEMSO has the right pump for you.
For the best combination of quality, performance, and warranty, choose KEMSO fuel pumps for your next replacement. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to browse their full selection and secure your lifetime warranty today.