How to fix fuel pump failure Toyota Corolla

Fixing Fuel Pump Failure on a Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Symptoms of Fuel Pump Failure:

• Engine sputtering at high speeds
• Loss of power under stress (e.g., driving uphill, accelerating)
• Engine not starting or hard to start
• Sudden engine stalls
• No sound from fuel pump when ignition is turned on

Diagnostic Steps:

1. Check for Fuel Pump Noise:

   • Tools Needed: None
   • Procedure:
     • Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position without starting the engine.
     • Listen for a humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, which indicates that the fuel pump is operational.

2. Inspect Fuel Pump Relay and Fuse:

   • Tools Needed: Multimeter, Fuse puller
   • Procedure:
     • Locate the fuel pump fuse and relay in the engine compartment fuse box.
     • Check the fuse for continuity using a multimeter.
     • Swap the fuel pump relay with a similar one to check for relay issues.

3. Fuel Pressure Test:

   • Tools Needed: Fuel pressure gauge
   • Procedure:
     • Locate the fuel rail and attach the fuel pressure gauge to the Schrader valve.
     • Turn the ignition on and check if the fuel pressure matches the specifications in the vehicle's manual (typically around 50-55 psi).
     • A low or no reading indicates a faulty pump or blockage.

4. Check for Electrical Issues:

   • Tools Needed: Multimeter
   • Procedure:
     • Access the fuel pump connector under the rear seat or trunk.
     • Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the connector when the ignition is turned on.
     • No voltage indicates an electrical issue upstream.

Repair Instructions:

1. Prepare for Fuel Pump Replacement:

   • Tools Needed: Socket set, Screwdriver, Pliers, Safety goggles, Gloves
   • Procedure:
     • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shocks.
     • Relieve the fuel system pressure by removing the fuel cap and disconnecting the fuel pump relay while the engine is running until it stalls.

2. Access the Fuel Pump:

   • Procedure:
     • Fold down the rear seats and remove the trunk liner or rear seat cushion to access the fuel pump cover.
     • Remove the screws securing the fuel pump access cover.

3. Remove the Fuel Pump Assembly:

   • Procedure:
     • Disconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines from the pump assembly. Use pliers to remove hose clamps if necessary.
     • Unscrew the retaining ring or bolts securing the pump assembly in the tank.
     • Carefully lift the pump assembly out of the fuel tank, taking care not to damage the float arm or sending unit.

4. Install New Fuel Pump Assembly:

   • Procedure:
     • Compare the new pump assembly with the old one to ensure compatibility.
     • Install the new fuel pump into the tank, ensuring the float arm is correctly positioned.
     • Secure the pump with the retaining ring or bolts.
     • Reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connector.

5. Reassemble and Test:

   • Procedure:
     • Reinstall the fuel pump access cover and trunk liner or rear seat cushion.
     • Reconnect the battery terminal.
     • Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position to prime the fuel system. Check for leaks around the fuel pump assembly.
     • Start the engine to verify successful installation.

Tips:

• Always work in a well-ventilated area and avoid open flames or sparks.
• Dispose of old fuel and components responsibly according to local regulations.
• Consider replacing the fuel filter if it hasn't been done recently to ensure optimal performance.

By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and replace a faulty fuel pump in a Toyota Corolla E170.