Where is the fuel pump on a 2017 Ford Explorer?
The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank and is accessed from inside the vehicle via a floor access panel in the cargo area behind the rear seats.
In more detail, Ford designs place the pump and sending unit inside the tank; you reach it through an interior access hatch in the cargo-floor area. Depending on the trim and seating configuration, you may need to fold the third-row seats or remove the cargo floor cover to reveal the hatch. If you’re replacing the pump, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines for relieving pressure and sealing the tank.
Location and access
The pump sits inside the fuel tank; there is an interior access panel rather than an external service port. Look in the rear cargo area floor for a removable cover that exposes the fuel-pump access opening. Location can vary by trim, so consult the owner's manual for the exact panel location on your specific vehicle.
To locate it on your 2017 Explorer, inspect the cargo floor or the underside of the rear seat cushion until you find a circular or rectangular access hatch. Remove the hatch to reveal the pump and sending unit.
How to access the fuel pump (general steps)
What follows are general steps commonly used to access the fuel pump. They are meant as a guide and may vary by model or trim. Always follow safety precautions and refer to the service manual for your vehicle.
- Relieve fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent sparks.
- Fold down or remove the rear seats or cargo floor panels to expose the access hatch in the cargo area floor.
- Remove the access door or plug to reveal the fuel pump locking ring or fasteners.
- Disconnect electrical connections and fuel lines as required, then remove the locking ring or fasteners.
- Lift out the fuel pump module from the tank, inspect as needed, and reinstall with a new seal/gasket if replacing.
In short, the fuel pump is inside the fuel tank and accessed through a floor access hatch in the cargo area; consult the manual for your exact hatch location and service steps.
Note: If you're not comfortable performing this work, have a professional service technician handle it to avoid fuel leaks or injury.
Summary
The fuel pump on a 2017 Ford Explorer is inside the fuel tank and accessed from the interior via a floor panel in the cargo area behind the rear seats. The exact location of the access hatch can vary by trim, so consult the owner's manual or a service manual for exact instructions. With proper safety steps, you can inspect or replace the pump through the interior access hatch.
How much does it cost to replace a fuel pump on a 2017 Ford Explorer?
Labor costs are estimated between $330 and $484 while parts are priced between $885 and $1,042. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
How do I know if my Ford Explorer fuel pump is bad?
7 Signs Your Ford's Fuel Pump Needs Replacement
- Sputtering Engine. A clogged or faulty fuel pump will fail to pump the necessary amount of gas into the combustion chambers.
- Plummeting Power.
- Stalling Engine.
- Refusal To Start.
- Surging Engine Power.
- Poor Gas Mileage.
- Whining Sounds Behind You.
Where is the fuel pump located?
The fuel pump is most commonly located inside the vehicle's fuel tank, submerged in fuel and accessed through a panel under the rear seat or in the trunk. In modern vehicles with Gas Direct Injection (GDI) systems, there is also a secondary high-pressure fuel pump located near the fuel rail in the engine compartment. In older cars with mechanical fuel pumps, they are often mounted on the side of the engine block.
This video shows the location of the fuel pump inside the fuel tank: 57sScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 23, 2011
In most modern vehicles
- Location: Inside the fuel tank, which is usually located under the rear seat or in the trunk.
- Access: A panel on the vehicle's floor or trunk provides access to the pump assembly, which is mounted to the top of the tank.
- Function: The pump is submerged in fuel, which helps keep it cool and ensures a consistent supply.
In vehicles with GDI systems
- Location: In addition to the in-tank pump, there is a secondary, high-pressure pump.
- Access: This secondary pump is located near the fuel rail in the engine compartment.
In older vehicles
- Location: The mechanical fuel pump is often located outside the fuel tank.
- Access: It is typically mounted on the side of the engine block and driven by the camshaft.
Where is the fuel pump relay on a 2017 Ford Explorer?
The 2017 Ford Explorer fuel pump relay is located in the power distribution box under the hood, specifically on the driver's side. The relay is labeled as component number 65 and is a 30-amp fuse, according to some sources, though it's crucial to consult the diagram on the fuse box cover itself for the most accurate information.
You can watch this video to see how to locate the fuel pump fuse and relay in your Ford Explorer's under-hood fuse box: 1mQuiteAlrightYouTube · Mar 31, 2023
- Locate the fuse box: Open the hood. The fuse box is in the power distribution box on the driver's side.
- Find the relay: Once the access panel is removed, look for a diagram on the inside of the cover to identify the exact location of the fuel pump relay (number 65).
- Check the fuse: The fuel pump fuse is a 30-amp fuse (component number 63). You can inspect and replace it if it appears blown.
This video demonstrates how to check the fuel pump fuse and relay: 56sAdvance Auto PartsYouTube · Jan 28, 2012
