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Where is the fuel pump relay switch located?

The fuel pump relay switch is a critical component in a vehicle's fuel system, responsible for controlling the operation of the fuel pump. Its location can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but it is typically found in one of a few common locations.

Common Locations of the Fuel Pump Relay Switch

Under the dashboard or in the fuse/relay box: The fuel pump relay switch is often located in the fuse/relay box, which is typically found under the dashboard or in the engine compartment.

In the engine compartment: Some vehicles have the fuel pump relay switch mounted directly in the engine compartment, usually near the battery or other electrical components.

In the trunk or behind the rear seat: In some cases, the fuel pump relay switch may be located in the trunk or behind the rear seat, particularly in vehicles with the fuel tank located in the rear.

To locate the fuel pump relay switch in your specific vehicle, it's best to consult your owner's manual or a repair manual for your make and model. These resources will provide the exact location and any additional information needed to access and identify the fuel pump relay switch.

Importance of the Fuel Pump Relay Switch

The fuel pump relay switch plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of your vehicle's fuel system. It is responsible for turning the fuel pump on and off, ensuring that the correct amount of fuel is delivered to the engine. If the fuel pump relay switch fails or is not functioning correctly, it can lead to issues such as the engine not starting, stalling, or experiencing reduced performance.

Regularly checking and maintaining the fuel pump relay switch, as well as the overall fuel system, is essential for the reliable operation of your vehicle.

Can I bypass the fuel pump relay?

A single jumper wire is the easiest way to bypass your fuel pump relay. Simply identify the relay and unplug it from its socket. Replace it by inserting one end of the single jumper wire into one of the sockets and the other end of the jumper wire into the other socket. Return the battery and start the car.

Where is the fuel pump reset button located?

The fuel pump reset button, also known as the inertia switch, is typically located in the passenger side footwell. It is often found behind the kick panel or an access panel to the left of the fuse box. To reset it, turn the ignition off, ensure there are no fuel leaks, and then press the button until it clicks.

This video shows the location of the fuel pump reset switch on some Ford models: 59sDaddy DIY GrillingYouTube · Feb 10, 2024
How to locate and reset the button

Locate the switch: The switch is usually in the passenger's front footwell, behind a panel on the side of the vehicle's interior (the kick panel). Some models may have it located under the right side of the glove box.
Identify the switch: Look for a small switch, often with a red button on top.
Check for leaks: Before resetting, turn the ignition off and check the fuel system for any leaks.
Reset the switch: Push the red button down firmly until it clicks, which indicates it has been reset.
Start the car: Turn the ignition on and wait a few seconds to allow the fuel pump to prime, then return the key to the off position. You can then start the car.

How to get a fuel pump to kick on?

Use a rubber mallet or the handle of a wrench to gently tap the bottom of the fuel tank. The vibration can sometimes jolt the fuel pump motor back to life, allowing it to pump fuel to the engine.

How to check if a fuel pump relay is bad?

You can check if a fuel pump relay is bad by first observing symptoms like a car that cranks but won't start or sudden stalling, then using a multimeter to test the relay for continuity and proper voltage response, or by swapping it with an identical relay to see if the problem is resolved. A quick check is to listen for the fuel pump's typical priming sound when the key is turned to the "on" position; a lack of this sound can indicate a bad relay.
Symptoms of a bad fuel pump relay
This video explains the signs and symptoms of a bad fuel pump relay: 56sMechanical BoostYouTube · Dec 25, 2024

Engine won't start: The most common sign is an engine that cranks but doesn't fire up.
Engine stalls or hesitates: The engine may stall while driving or hesitate during acceleration.
No fuel pump noise: When you turn the ignition to the "on" position (not start), you should hear a faint buzzing or whirring sound from the fuel pump. A lack of this sound suggests the relay isn't powering the pump.
Check engine light is on: A faulty relay can trigger a check engine light.
Intermittent starting issues: The car may start sometimes and not others, indicating an unreliable connection.
Rough idling or misfires: The engine might run poorly because it's not getting a consistent fuel supply.
Engine dies immediately after starting: The engine starts and then immediately shuts off, as if it's out of gas.

How to test the relay
1. The "swap" method (easiest)

Locate your vehicle's fuse box and find the fuel pump relay.
Look for another relay in the same fuse box that has the exact same part number and is for a non-critical system (like the horn or AC).
Swap the relays. If the car now starts and runs, your old fuel pump relay is bad and needs to be replaced.

This video demonstrates how to test a fuel pump relay by swapping it with another relay: 37sCar FixYouTube · May 25, 2024
2. The multimeter method

Remove the fuel pump relay from the fuse box.
Use the diagram on the relay to identify the terminals (e.g., 1, 2, 3, and 5).
Connect a 12-volt power source to terminals 1 and 2 (this is the coil). You should hear a click and the contacts (3 and 5) should close.
Use a multimeter to test for a connection between terminals 3 and 5. If the multimeter shows an open circuit, the relay is bad.
To check the control circuit, connect your multimeter's leads to the correct terminals and measure the resistance in ohms. You can use your vehicle's wiring diagram for specific values, but a reading between 50 and 200 ohms is typical, according to this YouTube video.
This method can also be used to check for voltage at the fuel pump itself to confirm the relay is sending the correct signal.

This video shows how to test a relay using a multimeter: 29sWard WrenchingYouTube · Apr 17, 2023

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.