Symptoms of a bad or faulty fuel pump relay
If the engine stalls or won't start, or the fuel pump makes no noise when the ignition is turned on, you may need to replace the fuel pump relay.
The fuel pump relay is an electronic component that is found on almost all vehicles equipped with an internal combustion engine. It is often found in the fuse box located in the engine bay and functions as the main electronic switch that controls power to the fuel pump. The fuel pump relay is usually controlled by the ignition or transmission control module, and when turned on, supplies current to the fuel pump so that it can operate. Because the fuel pump relay controls power to the fuel pump, any failure of the relay can cause problems with the fuel pump, which can cause vehicle drivability problems. Usually, a bad or faulty fuel pump relay causes several symptoms that can alert the driver to problems.
1. Engine stalls
One of the first symptoms of a problem with the fuel pump relay is a sudden stop of the engine. If the fuel pump relay fails while the vehicle is moving, it will cut off power to the fuel pump, causing the engine to stop. A faulty relay may allow the vehicle to be restarted after a while, but a completely failed relay may not.
2. Engine does not start
Another sign of a bad fuel pump relay is that the engine won't start. If the fuel pump relay fails, the fuel pump will be without power. The engine may continue to run when the key is turned, but it will not be able to start due to lack of fuel. This symptom can also be caused by a variety of other issues, so it is highly recommended to properly diagnose the vehicle.
3. No noise from the fuel pump
Another symptom that may indicate a problem with the fuel pump relay is no noise from the fuel pump when the ignition is turned on. Most fuel pumps make a low hum or hum that can be heard from inside the car if you listen carefully, or from outside the car near the fuel tank. If the fuel pump relay fails, it will cut off power to the fuel pump, making it inoperable and therefore silent when the ignition is on.
Although the fuel pump relay is a very simple component, it plays a very important role in the correct operation of the vehicle. If your vehicle exhibits any of the above symptoms, or you suspect that the problem is with the fuel pump relay, have a professional technician, such as AvtoTachki, have the vehicle inspected to determine if the component should be replaced.
