Pierburg Fuel Pump Catalog: Your Essential Guide to Finding the Perfect Replacement Part

Navigating the Pierburg fuel pump catalog is the key to quickly identifying the exact replacement fuel pump required for your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and avoiding costly errors. Whether you drive a Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, or numerous other European makes, Pierburg is a major manufacturer and supplier of original and aftermarket fuel pumps. Understanding how to effectively use their extensive catalog system saves time, money, and prevents the frustration of installing the wrong component. This guide demystifies the Pierburg fuel pump catalog, providing you with the practical knowledge needed to make informed repair decisions with confidence.

Pierburg fuel pumps are critical components in both gasoline and diesel fuel delivery systems. Located inside or near the fuel tank, their primary function is to draw fuel from the tank and deliver it under the correct pressure to the engine's fuel injection system. A failing fuel pump leads to symptoms like engine hesitation, misfires, stalling, poor acceleration, and ultimately, the engine failing to start.

Given the importance of this component, ensuring you install the correct replacement is paramount. This is where the official Pierburg fuel pump catalog becomes an indispensable resource. It's far more reliable than generic searches or parts listings that might not account for crucial variations between vehicle models, engine types, and model years. Installing an incorrect pump can lead to poor engine performance, fuel leaks, premature pump failure, or even vehicle damage.

Understanding Pierburg Fuel Pump Identification

Pierburg fuel pumps are identified primarily by distinct Pierburg part numbers. These numbers are not random; they follow a specific coding system unique to Pierburg.

  • Structure: Pierburg part numbers typically consist of a combination of 7 or 8 digits. While the format may seem complex initially, focusing on the entire sequence is crucial. Examples include numbers like 7.24875.50.0 or 7.01977.53.0.
  • Location: This unique part number is printed directly on the pump housing itself. It's usually molded into the plastic casing or stamped onto a metal tag. Finding this number is the single most reliable way to identify the pump. Always check the pump physically if accessible before relying solely on vehicle details.
  • Significance: This specific Pierburg number is the definitive identifier within their catalog system. Entering this number guarantees you locate the correct replacement part, engineered for your vehicle's specific requirements. Never ignore this number if you can access it.

The Power of the Catalog: Beyond Part Numbers

The catalog serves several critical functions beyond just listing part numbers.

  1. Precise Vehicle Matching: While the part number is king, the catalog is designed to help you find that number based on your vehicle details. You input your vehicle's specific make, model, engine type (usually denoted by a code like engine displacement and variant – e.g., 2.0 TDI), model year range, and sometimes transmission type or specific trim levels. The catalog then lists all the Pierburg fuel pump components applicable to that exact specification.
  2. Critical Technical Specifications: Once you have a potential match, the catalog provides essential technical data:
    • Operating Pressure: Measured in bar (or sometimes kPa/psi), this indicates the pressure the pump is designed to deliver. Matching the correct pressure range is vital for proper fuel injection function. Gasoline and diesel pumps operate at significantly different pressures.
    • Flow Rate: Indicates the volume of fuel the pump can deliver over time (e.g., liters per hour - l/h). This must meet the engine's fuel consumption demands, especially at higher loads.
    • Voltage: Most modern vehicles use electric pumps running on the vehicle's standard electrical system voltage (12V or 24V). The pump must match.
    • Connector Type: The catalog usually details the specific electrical connector plug configuration needed to hook up the pump correctly. Mismatched connectors prevent installation.
    • Physical Dimensions: While images help, dimensions ensure the pump will physically fit into the designated mounting location (tank basket or housing).
  3. Component Images: High-quality images allow you to visually compare the suggested replacement pump with your existing unit. Matching the shape, mounting points, inlet/outlet positions, electrical connector, and overall design provides visual confirmation that you have the correct part. This is a critical double-check step.
  4. Cross-Referencing OEM Numbers: Pierburg supplies many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The catalog often lists the original part numbers used by carmakers (e.g., VW/Audi part numbers like 1K0 906 091, BMW part numbers like 16 14 6 776 365, Mercedes-Benz part numbers like A 000 470 28 09). This cross-reference capability is invaluable. If you only have the carmaker's original part number, you can enter it into the Pierburg catalog (or a supplier site using the Pierburg catalog) to find the equivalent Pierburg pump number. This confirms quality and often offers a more cost-effective solution.
  5. Product Variants: The catalog clearly differentiates between different types of fuel pumps:
    • Electric Fuel Pump (EFP): The standard component delivering fuel to the injection rail.
    • In-Tank Pump Assembly: Includes the pump pre-assembled within its mounting bracket/hanger assembly with integrated fuel level sender, wiring, and sometimes filter/sock strainer. Crucial for vehicles where the pump is integrated into a larger tank unit.
    • Fuel Delivery Module (FDM): Similar to an in-tank assembly, often more complex and containing pressure regulators, jet pumps for tank suction, and multiple connections.
    • Supply Modules: Sometimes used for specific configurations. The catalog specifies which configuration your vehicle requires.

Accessing and Using Pierburg Fuel Pump Catalogs Effectively

Pierburg provides their technical information through several channels:

  1. Official Pierburg Website (PartsFinder): The most direct source is the official Pierburg website (typically a specific section like "Product Finder," "eCatalog," or "Services -> Catalogues"). Enter your vehicle details (make, model, engine, year) step-by-step. Browse through the fuel system category to locate the fuel delivery pump section. Filtering accurately is key. Once you find the part, note the Pierburg number and cross-reference details.
  2. Authorized Distributor Websites: Major automotive parts suppliers (like Febi Bilstein, Meyle, or large wholesalers) integrate the Pierburg catalog data directly into their own online catalogs. Using these sites often combines the accuracy of Pierburg data with real-time local availability and pricing. The search process is similar – enter vehicle details and navigate to the fuel pump section.
  3. PDF Catalogs: Pierburg may offer downloadable PDF versions of their catalogs for specific vehicle makes or model ranges. While less interactive, they can be useful for offline reference or browsing. Ensure you download the latest available version, as fuel pump specifications do get updated.
  4. Professional Repair Databases (Paid): Services like TecAlliance (used by many professional workshops and parts stores) integrate comprehensive manufacturer data, including Pierburg. These are highly detailed but usually require a subscription.

Maximizing Catalog Accuracy: Key Tips

Finding the pump number on the old unit is always best practice. Without it, providing the most precise vehicle information possible is critical. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) searches dramatically improve accuracy. Pay particular attention to the engine code and exact model year range. Catalog results often list multiple pumps – carefully compare specifications and images before selecting. Verify critical specs like operating pressure and flow rate match OEM requirements. Ensure the connector and physical dimensions align.

What If Your Pump Isn't Cataloged? Troubleshooting and Verification

Sometimes, the exact pump might not appear immediately in the catalog. Ensure all vehicle details entered are perfect. Double-check the VIN decoding for engine and year specifics. Expand the model year search range slightly if needed. Verify you are searching the correct module type. Contacting Pierburg technical support or an authorized Pierburg distributor with your pump number or VIN can resolve ambiguities. They have access to detailed databases.

Sourcing Your Pierburg Fuel Pump

Once armed with the correct Pierburg part number, sourcing becomes straightforward. Reputable online automotive parts retailers offer robust search by part number. Check their reputation and return policies. Local auto parts stores can often order Pierburg pumps – provide the part number for accuracy. Authorized Pierburg distributors specialize in their products and offer expert support. Ensure the pump is sold as new in Pierburg packaging – be wary of used parts or counterfeits. Genuine Pierburg packaging carries security features and clear branding. Verify the part number on the pump itself matches the packaging.

Installation Considerations and Importance of Quality

Always follow safety procedures when replacing a fuel pump – depressurize the fuel system and disconnect the battery. Use appropriate tools and follow vehicle-specific service procedures. Install any included new seals, filters, or strainers. Choosing Pierburg ensures original equipment (OE) or OE-equivalent quality. It means precise engineering, rigorous testing for durability and reliability, adherence to critical specifications, use of quality materials, and compatibility guaranteed with your specific vehicle system. Opting for cheaper, uncertified alternatives carries significant risks – improper fitment, failure to meet pressure/flow demands, premature failure, potential fuel leaks, and engine damage.

Conclusion: The Catalog is Your Key to Confidence

Understanding and effectively utilizing the Pierburg fuel pump catalog transforms what could be a complex and error-prone task into a straightforward process. By focusing on identifying the unique Pierburg part number and leveraging the catalog's detailed vehicle application filters, technical specifications, images, and cross-referencing capabilities, you ensure you select the precisely engineered replacement fuel pump your vehicle demands. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast tackling the job yourself or a professional ensuring a reliable repair for your customer, mastering the Pierburg catalog is fundamental to guaranteeing correct fitment, optimal performance, and long-lasting reliability. Avoid guesswork; trust the definitive information provided by Pierburg through their comprehensive catalog system to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. Investing the time to use this resource correctly pays dividends in peace of mind and trouble-free motoring.

Back to blog