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Where is the fuel pump relay on a 1991 Ford Capri?

In most 1991 Ford Capri models, the fuel pump relay is located in the engine bay’s fuse and relay box, typically in the box that houses the control relays near the engine. It’s usually labeled “FUEL PUMP” on the lid diagram. This article explains where to look and how to confirm its operation.

Location and identification

The Capri from this era uses a centralized fuse/relay block in the engine compartment. The box is usually mounted in the engine bay, and the lid carries a diagram with the relay layout. Look for a relay marked FUEL PUMP (or PUMP); it is typically a standard Bosch‑style 4- or 5‑pin unit. Depending on the exact engine code and market, the position within the box may vary slightly, but it remains in the engine bay fuse/relay assembly rather than in the interior fuse box.

How to identify the correct relay

Open the engine bay fuse/relay box and inspect the diagram on the inside of the cover. Cross‑check the relays’ positions with the label for FUEL PUMP. If you have the workshop manual for your specific engine variant (for example 1.6 CVH or 2.0 DOHC), refer to the exact diagram to confirm the relay’s location.

Note that some market or engine variants may place controls differently. If the engine bay box lacks a clearly labeled fuel pump relay, check the interior fuse box or consult the manual for your exact model to confirm the correct relay location.

Steps to locate the relay

Follow these steps to locate the fuel pump relay in the engine bay box:

Open the hood and locate the large black plastic fuse/relay box in the engine bay—typically mounted on the side near the engine or inner fender.

Remove the cover by releasing the clips; check the diagram on the inside of the lid for a relay labeled “FUEL PUMP” or “PUMP.”

Identify the relay that corresponds to that label and take a quick photo for reference.

If you don’t see a “FUEL PUMP” label, consult the workshop manual for your exact engine variant to locate the relay position.

With the diagram in hand, you can spot the fuel pump relay quickly and avoid swapping the wrong component during troubleshooting.

What to do if it isn’t obviously located or you have a different setup

Some markets or engine configurations used alternative layouts, including interior fuse boxes or a different engine bay relay block. If the engine bay box doesn’t show a clearly labeled fuel pump relay, review the fuse/relay diagrams in your owner’s manual or service guide for your exact engine code. If in doubt, a Ford dealer or qualified technician can confirm the correct relay location by tracing the fuel pump circuit.

Testing the fuel pump relay

Before replacing components, a basic check can help determine whether the relay is functioning and whether the fuel pump is receiving power.

Turn the ignition to ON (do not crank) and listen for a brief click from the engine bay relay box, indicating the relay energizes.

Back‑probe the fuel pump connector to verify 12V at the pump when the ignition is ON.

Swap in a known‑good relay of the same type if you suspect the relay is faulty.

If voltage is present at the pump but the pump doesn’t run, the fault may lie with the pump or wiring rather than the relay.

Handle electrical testing with care and, if you’re not comfortable performing these checks, seek professional assistance to avoid safety hazards.

Summary

The fuel pump relay on most 1991 Ford Capris is located in the engine bay fuse/relay box, with the lid diagram typically labeling a FUEL PUMP relay. If you can’t find it there, check other fuse boxes or consult the vehicle’s manual for your exact engine variant, as layouts can vary by market. Accurate identification helps streamline testing and troubleshooting.

Where is the fuel pump relay located?

The fuel pump relay is most commonly located in the fuse/relay box under the hood, though older cars may have it behind the dashboard or under the driver's side kick panel. The exact location varies by vehicle, so your best bet is to consult your owner's manual or search online for your specific make and model.

This video shows how to locate the fuel pump relay in a car: 21sPhillips VisionYouTube · Jan 3, 2022
Common locations

Under the hood: Look for a black plastic box, often near the battery, that contains fuses and relays. A diagram on the lid will identify each component.
Under the dashboard: Some vehicles, especially older ones, may have the relay behind the instrument panel or under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Driver's side kick panel: In many cases, you can find the relay behind a plastic cover on the driver's side, near where your feet would be.

This video shows how to find the fuel pump relay in a car: 56sCarsNToysYouTube · Jan 28, 2016
Tips for finding it

Consult your owner's manual: It will have a diagram showing the precise location of the relay.
Search online: Type your vehicle's year, make, and model with "fuel pump relay location" to find specific diagrams and videos.
Look for the diagram: Most fuse boxes have a diagram on the inside of the lid that will point out the fuel pump relay.

What are the symptoms of a failing fuel pump relay?

Symptoms of a bad fuel pump relay include an engine that cranks but won't start, sudden or intermittent stalling, a loss of power while driving, and a rough idle. You may also notice the fuel pump doesn't make its usual humming sound when you turn the key, and the check engine light might illuminate. Other signs are engine misfires and hesitation during acceleration.

Primary symptoms

Engine won't start or cranks but doesn't start: The engine turns over but doesn't ignite because the relay is preventing fuel from reaching the engine.
Stalling: The vehicle may stall suddenly while driving or after starting, especially if the relay fails intermittently.
No fuel pump noise: When you turn the ignition to the "on" position, you won't hear the normal soft whirring sound from the fuel pump as it builds pressure.

Other common symptoms

Loss of power: You may experience a loss of power, particularly during heavy acceleration or when going uphill.
Rough idle: The engine may idle roughly or sputter due to an inconsistent fuel supply.
Engine misfires: The engine may misfire, feeling like a hesitation or stumble, because some cylinders aren't getting enough fuel.
Check Engine Light: The check engine light may come on as the car's computer detects a problem with fuel delivery.
Intermittent starting problems: The car may start fine some days and be difficult to start on others, with the problem getting progressively worse over time.
Unexplained battery drain: A faulty relay that gets stuck in the "on" position can cause the fuel pump to run continuously, leading to a dead battery.

Where is the fuel pump relay on a 1991 Mercury Capri?

And the smallest of the two. This one is your fuel pump relay. So in case you're having problems finding it that's where it is it's behind the ECM. Thank you for watching.

Where is the fuel pump reset button on a Ford?

In pushing in on the reset. Button so again just pushing down on it turn the ignition on wait a few seconds. And return the key to off make sure there are no leaks.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.