Matija Pinko
Updated on September 16, 2022
If your car isn’t starting, one of the first things you should do is check the fuel pump relay. This component is responsible for supplying power to the fuel pump, and if it’s not working properly, your car won’t start.
A fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that turns on the fuel pump when the ignition switch is turned on. The fuel pump relay is usually located under the dashboard near the steering column or near the battery, inside the fuse box.
In this article, we will show you where the fuel pump relay is located in your car and how to replace it if necessary.
What’s a Fuel Pump Relay?
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A fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that is used to energize the fuel pump in a vehicle. It is usually located under the dashboard near the steering column or near the battery, inside the fuse box.
The fuel pump relay regulates power to the fuel pump, based on signals from the ignition and engine management systems.
The fuel pump relay is an important part of a vehicle’s electrical system. It ensures that the fuel pump receives power only when the engine is running and that it shuts off when the engine is turned off. This prevents the fuel pump from overworking and burning out.
If the fuel pump relay fails, it can cause a number of problems, including engine stalling, difficulty starting the engine, and decreased performance. In some cases, a faulty fuel pump relay can even cause the engine to fail to start at all.
If you suspect that your fuel pump relay may be failing, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. They will be able to test the relay and diagnose any problems. In most cases, a failed fuel pump relay will need to be replaced.
How to Locate Fuel Pump Relay
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To locate the fuel pump relay, first, find the fuse box. The fuse box will usually be located under your dashboard or under the hood, near the battery. Once you have found the fuse box, look for a diagram that shows the location of the relays.
The diagram should show the location of the fuel pump relay in relation to the other relays in the box. If there is no diagram, check for one online for your specific model.
Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay
There are a few different symptoms that can indicate a problem with the fuel pump relay. If you experience any of these, it’s important to have the vehicle checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
One of the most common symptoms of a bad fuel pump relay is engine stalling. If the relay fails, it can cause the fuel pump to overwork or shut off completely. This can lead to the engine stalling, either while idling or while driving.
Another symptom of a bad fuel pump relay is difficulty starting the engine. If the relay is not working properly, it may prevent the fuel pump from receiving power when the ignition is turned on. This can make it difficult to start the engine, especially if it has been sitting for a while.
The third symptom of a bad fuel pump relay is decreased performance. If the relay is not providing power to the fuel pump correctly, it can lead to reduced fuel pressure. This can cause the engine to run poorly, misfire, or stall.
How to Test a Fuel Pump Relay
There are a few different ways that you can test a fuel pump relay. One way is to use a multimeter to test the continuity of the relay’s contacts. Another way is to use a test light to check for power at the fuel pump when the engine is running.
If you suspect that your fuel pump relay may be failing, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. They will be able to test the relay and diagnose any problems. In most cases, a failed fuel pump relay will need to be replaced.
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How to Replace a Fuel Pump Relay
In most cases, you will need a few basic tools to replace the fuel pump relay. These include a screwdriver, a ratchet and socket set, wheel chocks, nose pliers, and a new fuel pump relay.
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Steps to Replace a Fuel Pump Relay
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the emergency brake. Chock the wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
- Locate the fuel pump relay. In most vehicles, it is located in the under-hood fuse box. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
- Using your screwdriver, remove the cover of the fuse box.
- Find the fuel pump relay and use your ratchet and socket to remove it from its socket.
- Disconnect any wiring harnesses connected to the fuel pump relay.
- Install the new fuel pump relay into its socket.
- Reconnect any wiring harnesses to the new fuel pump relay.
- Replace the cover with the fuse box.
- Start your vehicle and check for proper operation of the fuel pump.
- If necessary, Bleed the fuel line by depressing the Schrader valve on the fuel injector until fuel comes out.
- If you have an electronic fuel pump, it may be necessary to reset the Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM). Consult your owner’s manual or service manual for specific instructions on how to do this.
Steps to Bleed the Fuel Line
- Place a cloth or catch pan below the fuel line to be bled and open the bleeder valve.
- Crank the engine for a few seconds until fuel starts coming out of the bleeder (Schrader) valve.
- Close the bleeder valve and check that there are no leaks.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until clear fuel comes out of the bleeder valve with no air bubbles.
- Close the bleeder valve and reattach the fuel line.
- Start the engine and check for leaks again.
If you’re having trouble bleeding the fuel line, try pumping the primer bulb a few times before opening the bleeder valve. This will help get rid of any air bubbles in the system.
If you’re still having trouble, it may be due to a clogged fuel filter or injector(s). Try replacing the fuel filter and/or injectors to see if that fixes the problem.
Steps to Reset the Fuel Pump Driver Module
If your car is having trouble starting, it may be due to a problem with the fuel pump driver module. This is a device that controls the electric current to the fuel pump, and if it fails, the pump will not receive enough power to operate properly.
Fortunately, you can reset the fuel pump driver module yourself, and this article will show you how.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable. This will prevent the risk of electrical shock while you work on the vehicle.
- Locate the fuel pump driver module. It is usually located near the fuel tank or in the engine compartment.
- Remove the module from its mounting location. There may be screws or bolts holding it in place, so take note of how it is attached.
- Inspect the module for any signs of damage. If there are any cracks or breaks in the housing, you will need to replace the module.
- If the module appears to be in good condition, reset it by pressing and holding the “reset” button for about 5 seconds. It’s normally a small button or a hole so you’ll probably need a toothpick. Keep in mind that not all modules have it.
- Reinstall the module in its original location and reconnect the negative battery cable.
- Start the engine and test it to see if the problem has been resolved. If not, you may need to replace the fuel pump driver module.
As you can see, there are a few things that can go wrong with the fuel pump or fuel pump relay. If your car is having trouble starting, it’s best to check these things before taking it to a mechanic. With a little time and effort, you should be able to diagnose and fix the problem yourself.
FAQs
How Long Does a Fuel Pump RelayLast?
The lifespan of a fuel pump relay depends on a number of factors, including:
- The quality of the relay itself
- The conditions under which it is used (for example, if it is constantly exposed to high temperatures)
- How often it is used
Generally speaking, a well-made fuel pump relay can last for many years (usually the lifetime of a car). However, if it is constantly exposed to high temperatures or used frequently, it may need to be replaced more often.
How Much Does a Fuel Pump Relay Cost?
The cost of a fuel pump relay varies depending on the make and model of your car, as well as the specific type of relay. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 for a new fuel pump relay.
Can You Drive Without a Fuel Pump Relay?
No, you cannot drive without a fuel pump relay. If your car does not have a functioning fuel pump relay, then the fuel pump will not be able to function properly (or at all). This can lead to a number of problems, including:
- Your car may not start
- Your car may stall unexpectedly
- Your car may have difficulty accelerating
- Your car may experience reduced fuel efficiency
All of these problems can be extremely dangerous, so it is very important that you make sure your car always has a working fuel pump relay.
Can a Bad Fuel Pump Replay Damage My Car?
Yes, a bad fuel pump relay can damage your car. If the relay is not working properly, it can cause the fuel pump to overheat or work less efficiently. This can lead to costly repairs or even the replacement of the fuel pump.
How Can I Prevent My Fuel Pump Relay From Going Bad?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent your fuel pump relay from going bad:
- Make sure to keep your car’s electrical system in good working order. If there are any problems with the electrical system, they could cause the relay to fail.
- Avoid exposing the relay to excessive heat or vibration.
- If possible, choose a quality aftermarket or OEM fuel pump relay. These tend to be more reliable than generic relays.
- If you must use a generic or aftermarket relay, make sure to choose one that is designed for your specific car.
Following these tips can help you keep your fuel pump relay in good working condition for many years to come.
Can You Bypass Fuel Pump Relay?
Yes, it is possible to bypass the fuel pump relay. However, doing so will likely result in damage to your car’s engine and may even lead to a fire.
It is therefore not recommended to bypass the fuel pump relay unless you are absolutely sure that you know what you’re doing. If you do decide to bypass the relay, be sure to disconnect the battery first and take all necessary safety precautions.
Conclusion
The fuel pump driver module is usually located under the hood, near the battery. If you suspect that this is the problem, you can test it by disconnecting the wire that goes to the fuel pump and connecting a test light in its place. If the light comes on, then the problem is with the fuel pump driver module.
If your car is having trouble starting, it may be due to a problem with the fuel pump driver module. This is a device that controls the electric current to the fuel pump, and if it fails, the pump will not receive enough power to operate properly.
Replacing a fuel pump relay is usually a pretty easy job. However, if you are not familiar with electrical work, it’s best to leave it to a professional. Replacing the fuel pump driver module is a more difficult job and should only be attempted by someone who has experience with car repairs.
Here are some other related topics you may want to read:
Can A Bad Fuel Pump Relay Cause Misfire?
Reasons A Fuel Pump Fuse Keeps Blowing
5 Common Problems After Changing a Fuel Pump
