What is a fuel pumps relay? What are the symptoms for a fuel pump relay malfunction? How to clean the fuel pumps relay
What is a Fuel Pump Relay, and what does it do?
The fuel pump relay, an integral part of the fuel system and found in nearly all vehicles that have an internal combustion engine, is essential. The fuel pump relay is located in the fuse box of the engine compartment. Fuel is vital for the internal combustion engine to operate. The fuel pump relay makes sure that the engine has the fuel it requires.
The fuel pump relay activates when you turn on the ignition. This provides electricity to the fuel pump. It turns off the fuel pump when the ignition is turned off. It is the primary electronic switch that controls electricity to the fuel pumps. It is controlled usually by the power control module or ignition. Problems with the fuel pump can result from a failure of this component.
What are the Signs of Fuel Pump Relay Failure
The fuel pump relay is built to last a long time (150,000 to 300,000). However, the second law in thermodynamics states that all systems, if left to their own devices will eventually go into disorder, disorganization, and deterioration. Over time, all living and non-living objects corrode and deteriorate, rot and then disintegrate. This applies to your vehicle. If your vehicle has been driven a lot, it might be time to replace the fuel pump relay. There are many things that can cause the fuel pump relay to fail, such as dust or electrical surges.
Let’s take a closer look at the most obvious symptoms of a faulty fuel pumps relay.
1. Engine Stopping
The sudden stoppage of the engine is the most obvious symptom that a bad fuel pump relay could cause. The engine will stall if the fuel pump relay is damaged while it is running. The extent of the fault may determine if the vehicle should be restarted. The motor may not start if the relay is completely damaged or loses its function.
2. The Engine Doesn’t Start or Runs Hard
Inoperative engines are another sign of a bad fuel pump relay. Sometimes, the inoperative fuel pump relay may cause you to crank for over 10 seconds.
If the fuel pumps relay is not working, it means that the fuel pump has lost its power. It can start if you turn the ignition but it will not start because of a lack of fuel. This problem could also be caused by other faults so it is important that you correctly diagnose the issue.
3. No sound from the fuel pump
A fuel pump relay malfunction can also be characterized by no fuel pump sound when the ignition switch is turned on. A low-volume clicking or hum sound can be heard from most fuel pumps. This sound can be heard either inside or outside of the vehicle near the fuel tank. The fuel pump relay can fail, cutting off power and preventing the pump from functioning. When the ignition is switched on, the fuel pump’s sound will be muffled.
4. On – Engine Malfunction Light
The engine control module stores a fault code in it memory. This is usually the first sign. To read the code, you will need an OBD2 diagnostic tool. A code P0230/P0231 indicates that there is a problem in the fuel pump primary or secondary circuits. These codes don’t always indicate that the fuel pump relay has failed. A blown fuse, shorted pump, damaged wiring, or connectors could be the cause. These fault codes are most often P0627 and P0628.
5. Deceleration and Engine Power Loss
The fuel pump’s power can be affected by a failure of the relay, which could lead to inaccurate fuel distribution. Fuel pump relay failure may cause sudden loss of power, or a slowdown in driving.
Although the fuel pump relay is an extremely simple component, it plays a vital role in maintaining the vehicle’s smooth operation. You should have your vehicle checked by a professional technician if you notice any of these symptoms.
How to Clean A Fuel Pump Relay
You can learn how to clean the fuel pump relay.
Heat can damage the relay’s performance if it is located within the engine compartment. Rarely, the relay may be located outside of the fuse box or in the engine compartment. This will expose the relay to heat and dust as well as dirt. You should inspect the fuel pump relay regularly and clean it as often as possible to prevent any residue from affecting its performance.
Because the fuel pump relay is an electronic component of an automobile, be very careful when handling it. To remove the relay, first use (or blow) an air compressor for approximately 1-2 minutes to clean it. You should never use water to clean the part. Instead, use electronics cleaner chemicals like ethanol. To remove dirt, rub the relay gently and let dry in an airy area.
