Mediates the import of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) into the cell by facilitating their transport at the plasma membrane (PubMed:12556534, PubMed:20530735, PubMed:21395585, PubMed:28178239). Also functions as an acyl-CoA ligase catalyzing the ATP-dependent formation of fatty acyl-CoA using LCFA and very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA) as substrates, which prevents fatty acid efflux from cells and might drive more fatty acid uptake. May act directly as a bona fide transporter, or alternatively, in a cytoplasmic or membrane-associated multimeric protein complex to trap and draw fatty acids towards accumulation. Plays a pivotal role in regulating available LCFA substrates from exogenous sources in tissues undergoing high levels of beta-oxidation or triglyceride synthesis. May be involved in regulation of cholesterol metabolism (By similarity). Probably involved in fatty acid transport across the blood barrier (PubMed:21395585).
