Best Fuel Pressure Testers: Diagnose Fuel System Issues at Home

Diagnose symptoms caused by incorrect fuel pump pressure with these top fuel pressure testers

byTrey Williams|
Tools photo

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

BYTrey Williams/ LAST UPDATED ON June 9, 2021

Replacing your vehicle’s fuel filter or fuel injectors is expensive, but unless you know it's definitely an issue with the fuel system, diagnosing the problem can be just as costly. A fuel pressure gauge kit can help you identify if it's your car's fuel line, fuel pump, or something else entirely. Save yourself some time and money by using one of the following fuel pressure tester kits.

Best Overall

BETOOLL Pro Fuel Injection Pressure Tester Kit

Summary

Includes a dual scale gauge with wider than average ranges (0-140psi / 0-10 bar) to ensure maximum usability. It has Bosch CIS and GM TBI testers as well as a large range of high-quality brass fittings to cover all known fuel injection systems.

Pros
  • The tester and accessories come in a molded plastic case for organized and easy storage
  • High-quality brass fittings, hoses, and adapters are covered by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
  • Accessories do not fit particularly well in the storage case and are prone to dropping out when opened
  • Information in booklet regarding correct pressure levels for different vehicles may not be entirely accurate
Best Value

Innova 3640 Professional Fuel Injection Pressure Tester

Summary

Includes a 2-inch easy-to-read pressure gauge with 0-100psi scale for accurately identifying fuel pump pressure levels. Also comes with fittings for Chrysler, Ford, and GM test ports as well as a T-adapter for imported vehicles.

Pros
  • Easy to use and accurate enough for domestic use despite a lower price point than most alternatives 
  • Basic range of fittings should be sufficient for most people, so you don’t end up paying for extra bits you don’t need
Cons
  • The 16-inch long hose is comparatively short and not ideal for testing from the driving seat 
  • The pressure gauge screen is not fuel-resistant and can be damaged in a spill
Honorable Mention

Actron Professional Fuel Pressure Tester

Summary

This is designed for testing fuel injected systems and features a large 2.5-inch pressure gauge to ensure accurate readings and two scales (0-100psi and 0-700 kPa) for added convenience. Includes a pressure release valve to safely remove gasoline before disconnection.

Pros
  • The six-foot long hose is much more substantial than alternative models and allows the pressure gauge to be easily read from inside the vehicle 
  • Includes a wide range of adapters and fittings to cover most domestic and imported vehicles
  • Includes instruction manual
Cons
  • Will not work on carburetor engines and includes no fittings to do so
  • Comes with a pouch for storage instead of a solid carrying case, which is not ideal for loose accessories

Best Fuel Pressure Testers Reviews & Recommendations 2021

The Betooll Pro Fuel Injection Pressure Tester Kit is truly the best of the bunch when you consider fuel pressure testers. It works with all vehicles, regardless of make or model, and it includes so much more than just a single tester. It’s a complete tool set, all packed inside a durable molded plastic carrying case for organized, convenient storage. This fuel pressure tester includes a dual dial for better accuracy, and you’ll be able to take easy readings on the 140 PSI, 10 Bar scale. The quick coupler connection attached to the gauge’s hose makes it super simple to connect, and it fits most adapters. Speaking of adapters, this kit comes with an array of high-quality brass adapters, all of which are built to last years. You’ll be covered for your current car or truck, and you can keep using the kit even when you upgrade to a new vehicle.

If you don’t want to invest a ton of money in a solid, durable fuel pressure tester, then you’ll love the Innova Professional Fuel Injection Pressure Tester. This budget-friendly auto tool offers everything you need yet won’t break the bank. It measures 8.25 x 1.5 x 12 inches in overall size, and it weighs just 0.5 pounds. A large 2-inch dial face with a 0 to 100 PSI scale makes it incredibly easy to take pressure readings and get data quickly. Attached to the gauge is a 16-inch long gauge hose and a 6-foot bleed-off hose, both of which have brass fittings at their ends. The tester will work on most cars; adapters for Ford, GM, and Chrysler vehicles are included along with the gauge and hose. You’ll also find the included “tee” adapter handy if you have an imported car.

If you can’t read a fuel pressure tester’s gauge easily, you can’t get highly accurate readings — but with the Actron Professional Fuel Pressure Tester, you shouldn’t have this problem. This fuel pressure tester is designed with a larger gauge than most competing products, giving you better visibility and making readings almost effortless. On the 2.5-inch gauge, you’ll be able to easily see the 0 to 100 PSI and 0 to 700 kPa scales and get solid, accurate results. Along with the gauge, the 6-foot hose gives you just the right amount of reach, and you’ll be able to use this tool whether your car’s engine is on and running or turned off. The tester comes with a protective storage pouch and a few different brass adapters so you can use it with an array of different vehicles, both domestic and imported. However, you won’t be able to use this fuel pressure tester for any carburetor issues, as it doesn’t come with the adapters you’d need.

The OTC Fuel Pressure Test Kit is built to take the wear and tear like a professional-level product. It’s not delicate at all — with this fuel pressure tester and its included accessories, you’ll be able to rely on your tools without worry. As you use this kit to locate and assess your fuel system’s performance, the large and easy-to-read gauge will show you readings with a 0 to 100 PSI scale and a 0 to 700 kPa scale. The gauge is made with an impact-resistant rubber exterior, so it’ll literally bounce and absorb shocks from drops, falls, and more. The included hose, tubing, and brass fittings are all made with high-quality materials, designed to be used for a very long time. And a convenient pressure relief valve keeps you in control while you’re testing. You’ll have all of the testing supplies you need for different makes and models, and you’ll be able to put OTC’s kit to use on cars both domestic and imported easily.

When it comes to accuracy and precision, the Orion Motor Tech Fuel Pressure Tester is just what you need. This handy automotive tool is designed to be universal, able to be used on most cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and even other vehicles like ATVs. In addition to its versatility with gas-powered vehicles, this testing tool also offers reliable accuracy. The included easy-to-read gauge shows you up to 140 PSI and 10 Bar, and its 4-inch size and shockproof rubber casing only enhance its convenience. You won’t have to worry about dropping this tool’s gauge. Additionally, the tester comes with brass and aluminum connectors and adapters, all of which are meant to easily secure the hoses where they’re needed. You can trust the precision of your readings thanks to the durable, torsion-ready hoses and the fine threading and sealing rings. These parts are reinforced, protected against rust and corrosion, and able to last throughout many uses.

Tips

  • Before testing your fuel pump pressure, make sure you’re parked on flat ground and at least 50 meters away from any open flames or other ignition sources.
  • Check your fuel pressure twice, with and without the engine running, to properly test the system. The fuel pressure should increase a little if you hit the throttle and, ideally, stay the same while idling, but it’s okay if it drops slightly. Any other results may indicate you have a problem somewhere in your fuel system. 
  • Make sure to check whether the fuel pressure tester kit you want includes the correct fittings and adapters by consulting the manual and the product specifications

FAQs

Q: How do I know if I have low fuel pressure?

A: You won’t know for sure until you test it, but symptoms of low fuel pump pressure include struggling to start the engine, backfiring and stalling, or hesitating when driving.

Q: What is the range for normal fuel pump pressure?

A: Pressure requirements vary, so we recommend checking the correct fuel pressure for your specific vehicle in the manual. But, as a reference, normal fuel pump pressure is generally between 45 and 58 psi (or 3.2 to 3.4 bar).

Q: What happens if fuel pump pressure is too high?

A: High fuel pressure forces more fuel through the fuel injectors than is needed. This can cause black exhaust smoke and an increase in emissions, which may result in damage to your catalytic converter.

Final Thoughts

The BETOOLL Pro Fuel Injection Pressure Tester Kit comes with a comprehensive range of adapters and fittings and is our best overall fuel pressure tester.

Our best value fuel pressure tester is the Equus 3640 Professional Fuel Injection Pressure Tester.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

Learn more
stripe