NOTE: This tutorial assumes that your car has a 3.0L engine and a rear fuel tank. If your vehicle has a different engine size or a front fuel tank, some of the instructions may vary.
Tools and Supplies Needed
- Screwdriver
- Pry tool or flathead screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- 17mm wrench
- 5/16-inch wrench
- 3/8-inch wrench
- 1/2-inch wrench
- Rubber mallet
- New fuel pump and filter (if necessary)
- Fuel line connector tool (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Relieve the fuel pressure. To do this, turn off the engine and locate the fuel pressure relief valve on the fuel rail. It is typically located near the front of the engine. Place a fuel injection hose or rag over the valve and depress it. This will release the fuel pressure, which will help prevent fuel from spraying out when you disconnect the fuel line.
2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is a safety precaution to prevent electrical shock and sparks when you are working around the fuel system.
3. Remove the fuel tank access cover. The fuel tank access cover is located on the floor of the trunk. It is usually held in place by a few screws.
4. Disconnect the fuel lines. Once the fuel tank access cover is removed, you will see the fuel lines that connect to the fuel tank. There will be two fuel lines: a supply line and a return line. Use a 5/16-inch wrench to loosen the fuel line connectors and then use your hands to disconnect the fuel lines. Be careful not to spill any fuel.
5. Remove the fuel tank mounting strap. The fuel tank mounting strap is located above the fuel lines. It is held in place by two 17mm bolts. Use a 17mm wrench to remove the bolts and then take off the fuel tank mounting strap.
6. Lower the fuel tank. The fuel tank is now free to be lowered. Be careful not to drop the fuel tank. You may need to use a pry tool or flathead screwdriver to help pry the fuel tank down. Once the fuel tank is lowered, you will see the fuel pump assembly.
7. Remove the fuel pump bracket. The fuel pump bracket is held in place by four bolts. Use a 5/16-inch wrench to loosen the bolts and then take off the fuel pump bracket.
8. Remove the fuel pump assembly. The fuel pump assembly is now free to be removed. Use your hands to grasp the fuel pump assembly and pull it out of the fuel tank. Be careful not to spill any fuel.
9. Inspect the fuel pump assembly. Inspect the fuel pump for any damage or wear. Also, inspect the fuel filter and replace it if it is dirty or clogged.
10. Install the new fuel pump assembly. Place the new fuel pump assembly into the fuel tank. Be careful not to drop it. Install the fuel pump bracket and tighten the bolts.
11. Connect the fuel lines. Reconnect the fuel lines to the fuel pump assembly. Make sure that the fuel lines are properly seated and tightened.
12. Install the fuel tank mounting strap. Reinstall the fuel tank mounting strap and tighten the bolts.
13. Raise the fuel tank. Carefully raise the fuel tank back into position. Make sure that the fuel lines are not pinched or kinked.
14. Install the fuel tank access cover. Reinstall the fuel tank access cover and tighten the screws.
15. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
16. Start the engine. Start the engine and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, the fuel pump has been successfully replaced.
