Here's how to check the fuel pump relay:
1. Locate the Fuel Pump Relay:
* Consult your owner's manual: This is the best place to find the exact location of the relay box and identify the fuel pump relay. The manual will often have a diagram.
* Common locations: The relay box is usually under the hood, often near the battery or in a dedicated fuse box. Sometimes it's inside the cabin, often under the dashboard. Look for a box with numerous relays and fuses.
2. Identify the Fuel Pump Relay:
* Visual inspection: The relay itself might be labeled "FUEL PUMP," "FP," or have a corresponding symbol. Again, your owner's manual is crucial here. Relays are typically small square or rectangular components.
* Use the owner's manual diagram: This is the most reliable method.
3. Testing the Relay (Two Methods):
Method 1: Visual Inspection and Swapping (Simplest):
* Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the relay. Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as burn marks, cracks, or corrosion.
* Swap with a known good relay: Find a relay of the *same size and amperage rating* from another less critical circuit in the relay box (e.g., a relay for something like the horn or wipers). *Do not swap it with a fuse.* Swap the suspected fuel pump relay with the known good one. If the fuel pump starts working, the original relay is faulty. If not, the problem is likely elsewhere.
Method 2: Using a Multimeter (More Technical):
This method requires a multimeter. Set it to check continuity (usually represented by a symbol of a diode or Ω).
* Remove the relay from the socket.
* Check for continuity between pins 30 and 87: These are normally closed contacts. You should get a reading indicating continuity (a low resistance reading, close to zero). If not, the relay is faulty.
* Check for continuity between pins 85 and 86: These are the coil contacts. You should *not* get continuity when the relay is not energized.
* Apply 12V to pins 85 and 86: Use your multimeter to supply 12V (carefully, don't exceed this voltage!) to pins 85 and 86, simulating the signal from the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). Now check for continuity between pins 30 and 87 again. You should now get a reading indicating continuity. If not, the relay is faulty.
4. Replacing the Fuel Pump Relay:
If you've determined the relay is faulty, replace it with a new one of the *exact same type*. Make sure it's rated for the correct amperage and voltage. Incorrect replacement could damage your car's electrical system.
Important Considerations:
* If replacing the relay doesn't solve the problem: The issue might be with the fuel pump itself, the wiring to the fuel pump, the fuel pump fuse, or a problem within the car's computer system. Further diagnostics may be required.
* Professional help: If you're not comfortable working with car electronics, it's best to take your Spectra to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly diagnosing or repairing electrical systems can be dangerous.
Remember to reconnect the negative battery terminal after you're finished. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific details relating to your vehicle.
