How To Replace a Fuel Pump or Fuel Pump Assembly

Park on a level surface and open the hood. Disconnect the negative battery cable and move it aside.

We’ll gain access to the fuel pump in our Camry by removing the bottom cushion of the back seat. Once you’ve found access to your fuel pump, use a pry tool or long flathead screwdriver to dislodge and remove the cover.

Press in the tab on the side of the wiring harness connector to disengage it, then move it to the side out of the way as best you can.

Use a vacuum with an appropriate attachment to remove any dirt and debris around the opening to the fuel pump assembly.

Remove the fasteners around the top of the fuel pump. Depending on the type of fuel pump or vehicle you’re working on, it may be held by a sealing ring or other type of retainer instead.

Use the appropriate tool to disengage any clips or fittings that secure the hose to the top of the pump, then remove the hose from the port. Wrap a shop towel or rag around the hose fitting to catch any excess fuel. Tuck the hose to the side, away from the fuel pump.

Carefully lift the fuel pump assembly up out of the port. It’s a good idea to wait a few seconds for any excess fuel to drain before lifting it away.

If you’re replacing the assembly as a whole, lift it away and compare it with your new one to make sure you have the right replacement part.

If you’re replacing the fuel pump itself from inside the assembly, move the assembly to a bench where you can work.

For most vehicles, you’ll need to disconnect the fuel pump harness connector, and in some cases, removing the float may provide more room to work. In our case, the pump is held in place with hose clamps, but it may also utilize clips or quick-disconnects, depending on the application.

You’ll also need to remove the strainer from the bottom of the fuel pump so it can be replaced. Replacing the strainer ensures that the fuel entering the new pump is properly filtered.

Disconnect the fuel line or hose from the fuel pump.

Once the harness, fuel line, and strainer are disconnected, you should be able to remove the fuel pump from the assembly. Remove the pump insulator and grommet or spacer, if equipped, to be reused when you install your new fuel pump. Compare your new pump with the old one to make sure you have the right replacement.

Reinstall the fuel pump insulator and grommet or other hardware onto the new pump if needed, then move your new pump into place.

Now reconnect the fuel hose or line to the pump. If the hose seems especially brittle or the clamps are corroded or damaged, it may be best to replace these items before reinstallation.

Install your new strainer. These typically press in and click into place.

It’s essential for your fuel tank to be clean. Contaminants are likely to cause premature pump failure and void the pump warranty. Depending on the access you have, you may be able to drain a plastic tank and wipe it out thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.

• If a metal tank has started to rust or has built up rust scale, it needs to be replaced.
• If a plastic tank has contaminants in it that can’t be removed, or if the tank or liner is damaged, cracked, or otherwise prone to leaks, it needs to be replaced.

Depending on the access you have, you may be able to drain a plastic tank and wipe it out thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.

Once you’re ready to install your new fuel pump, lower it carefully into the port. Replace the cover and begin threading the fasteners by hand, or securing your retaining ring.

Remove the shop towel or rag from the hose fitting and torque the fasteners in a star pattern to manufacturer specifications.

Now, push the fitting down into its port. Reinstall the safety clip. Snake the wiring harness back through the top cover, reinstall the wiring harness grommet and push the plug into the fuel pump until you hear it snap into place.

Reinstall the cover and press down on it to reengage the adhesive. Use butyl tape if needed to make the seal secure.

If you removed the back seat cushion, reinstall it, making sure your seat belts are visible.

Reattach your negative battery cable and close the hood.