Fuel Pump Relay Symptoms
The fuel pump relay is an electrical element that is in almost every vehicle designed with an internal combustion engine. Fuel pump relays are in the engine’s fuse box; their job is to control the power to the fuel pump.
Fuel pump relay appearance
The fuel pump relay is relatively small in appearance but is a large supporting factor to the fuel system. Basically, the fuel pump relay is a small black plastic box with a wiring harness attached to the bottom.
How the fuel pump relay works
When the ignition is first started or turned on, the fuel pump relay activates. Then, it sends an electrical current to activate the fuel pump. Once the fuel pump is activated, it begins to pump gasoline so the starter engages and triggers the vehicle to start and continue to run. The fuel pump remains on while the car is running, but once the car starts, the fuel pump relay’s job is done and shuts down.
The oil sending unit gives the fuel pump power and sends oil pressure data to the vehicle’s computer. When the key is off and the engine shuts down, the fuel pump relay switches on again for a short period to turn off the electrical power to the fuel pump. This ensures that the fuel is no longer pumping through the gas tank and fuel lines.
Fuel pump relay facts
A fuel pump relay is one of the fuel system’s primary components and works much like an auto fuse. Similar to a conduit, it transfers power to the fuel pump and controls the amount of power sent. It requires a lot of electrical currency to function properly. It is designed to withstand a substantial amount of power. Nevertheless, if too much electrical current gets distributed to the fuel pump, the wiring could become too hot, damaging or ruining the fuel pump. The engine control module controls the fuel pump relay.
There are three main components of the fuel system in a vehicle.
- Carburetor: Mixes air and fuel for combustion
- Fuel tank: Where the gasoline is stored
- Fuel Pump: Feeds gas through a fuel line from the gas tank to the fuel injectors or carburetor
Fuel pump relay location
The fuel pump is located underneath the hood and fastened to the internal firewall. The firewall is a solid, fireproof barricade between the engine housing and the cab of the vehicle. In some vehicles, the fuel pump is in the gas tank and is often attached close to the fuel level gauge. In some cases, the fuel pump relay is on a fender cover or the steering column.
Checking the fuel pump can be dangerous if you are not familiar with automotive repair. If you choose to tackle fuel pump relay problems on your own, you should keep in mind the dangers of working around gasoline.
Before buying a fuel pump relay for your car, familiarize yourself with the location and the type of fuel pump relay you need.