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Automotive glossary

Vapour Lock

Vapour lock is when fuel boils in the lines or pump and the pump cannot deliver liquid fuel to the engine.

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What is Vapour Lock?

It was common on older carburettor cars in hot weather or at high altitude. Modern pressurised, in-tank pump systems rarely suffer from it. It causes stalling, power loss and hot-start problems. Modern fuels with higher volatility can contribute in some cases.

How it works

Heat from the engine turns fuel into vapour, which a pump cannot move as effectively as liquid.

Why it matters for your car

Let the engine cool down before trying to restart. Fuel lines running close to exhaust parts may need heat shielding.

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