The fuel pump relay helps your vehicle start by pressurizing the fuel system for the first few seconds before the oil pressure level takes over. A bad fuel pump relay means the fuel system can’t build enough pressure to send gasoline to the engine, so the car won’t start. The relay must be replaced if this happens. Fortunately we have you alone 6 steps to change the fuel pump relay easily.
The fuel pump relay is usually located in the long black box on the vehicle with the other relays and fuses. However, on some cars the location may be different.
How to change fuel pump relay
The steps you must follow to carry out the respective replacement of the fuel pump relay are the following:
- Disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery of the vehicle to cut off the current. Although also disconnecting the positive terminal is also a good precaution.
- Open the lid and check the inside of the fuse box in the engine compartment. The fuel pump relay is located here on the vast majority of cars. Check the underside of the fuse box cover for a diagram showing the fuses/relays in the box and their location. If the relay is not in the fuse box, then you should consult the manual or your mechanic.
- when you find it proceed to remove the fuel pump relay, which is a cube-shaped object that connects with prongs like an electrical plug. Disconnect the plug (and fuse, if necessary) from the relay to remove it. If the relay is inside the box, carefully pry it out with the help of a flathead screwdriver.
- Use the old relay as a guide to get the correct replacement at an auto supply store.. A new relay can be priced between $12 and $45. Some brands of relays may be more reliable than others. Check with a store specialist to find out the best brand of relay for your car.
- Install the new relay in the vehicle, in their respective place. Plug the plug back in, the fuse, and any other connectors. You should also reconnect the battery cables.
- Re-pressurize the fuel system, as it should have depressurized after the relay was removed. Make sure the gas tank cap is securely closed, then turn the ignition on for 2 seconds and off for up to 10 seconds. Repeat at least 5 times; the recommended number may vary, depending on the vehicle.
Advice
Now that you’ve followed the steps to change a fuel pump relay, you can also test the fuel pump relay by replacing it with a similar one in the fuse box. The air conditioning relay is often close enough. If the car starts with the second relay connected, then the fuel pump relay is bad.
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