Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your Acura Mdx: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing a fuel pump in an Acura MDX is a moderately challenging task. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and the process involves disconnecting the battery, removing the rear seats, and accessing the pump through a small flap in the carpet. The pump is held in place by a lock ring, which needs to be removed before lifting the pump out of the tank. It is important to note that working with the fuel system can be dangerous, and one should take precautions to avoid the risk of fire. Additionally, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter at the same time as the fuel pump to ensure optimal performance.

Disconnect the battery

Disconnecting the battery is the first step when replacing the fuel pump in an Acura MDX. This is a good idea when working with fuel system components to prevent electrical shorts and potential fires.

To disconnect the battery, first locate it under the hood of the car. The Acura MDX battery is on the right front side of the car, hidden under a cover. This cover can be popped off by hand, with no tools required. Once the cover is removed, the battery will be visible, connected by a black and a red cable. The red cable is positive, and on the battery itself, just above the post, there will be a "plus" symbol. The black cable on the right is the negative cable, and the battery will have a "negative" symbol on it just above the post.

These cables are securely fastened to the post by a little bracket with a 10 mm nut that tightens them to the post. To loosen the cables, use a 10 mm socket, or a 10 mm box wrench or a crescent (adjustable size) wrench. If you don't have access to these tools, a set of pliers can also do the job. Always remove the negative cable first, then the positive. Once the battery terminals are removed, the battery can be lifted out. It is a good idea to wrap the end of the cable in a towel or shop rag to prevent accidental contact with the negative battery terminal.

Remove rear seats

To remove the rear seats of an Acura MDX, start by disconnecting the battery to prevent any electrical shorts and potential fires. Then, remove any plastic trim pieces that cover the seat mounting bolts. You can do this by gently prying upwards with a flat-head screwdriver or a small pry bar. Next, remove the seat mounting bolts from each seat frame mount using the appropriately-sized socket and ratchet. With the seat mounts free, lift the seat assembly and remove it from the vehicle. It may be helpful to have a friend assist you with this step.

Remove fuel pump assembly

To remove the fuel pump assembly of an Acura MDX, follow these steps:

Step 1: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical shorts and potential fires. This is an important safety precaution when working with fuel system components.

Step 2: Remove the rear seats to access the fuel pump access panel located on the floorboard underneath. This may involve prying off plastic trim pieces covering the seat mounting bolts with a flat-head screwdriver or small pry bar. Once the covers are removed, use a socket and ratchet to remove the seat mounting bolts and lift out the seat assembly.

Step 3: With the seats removed, the fuel pump can be accessed through a small flap in the carpet. Fold back the carpet flap or carefully cut along the perforated area with a utility knife to reveal the fuel pump cover.

Step 4: Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screws securing the pump cover in place. The pump cover may have an adhesive backing, so gently pry it upwards with a small pry bar or screwdriver to detach it completely.

Step 5: Disconnect the electrical harness plug and fuel line from the fuel pump. Be careful when handling the fuel line to avoid any spills or leaks.

Step 6: Remove the lock ring from the fuel pump using a lock ring wrench, large water pump pliers, or a drift punch and hammer. This step may require some force to loosen the lock ring.

Step 7: With the lock ring removed, carefully lift the fuel pump assembly out of the tank. Allow any residual fuel to drain and tilt the pump as needed to clear the fuel level sensor arm from the tank opening.

By following these steps, you will have successfully removed the fuel pump assembly from your Acura MDX, and you can now proceed with installing a new fuel pump or performing any necessary maintenance or repairs.

Reassembly

Once you have the new fuel pump, you can begin the reassembly process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Install the rubber sealing gasket onto the new fuel pump. Be careful when sliding the pump into the fuel tank to avoid damaging the fuel level sensor arm. Ensure the pump is properly positioned and fully seated so that the fuel line and electrical harness plug can be connected.
• Install the locking ring and tighten it securely to prevent fuel leaks.
• If necessary, transfer the old fuel line quick connect coupler to the new fuel pump nipple and attach the fuel line.
• Connect the fuel pump wiring harness plug.
• Install the fuel pump cover and secure it with the fastening screws.
• Reinstall the rear seat and tighten the mounting bolts. Put the plastic seat mount trim covers back in place.
• Reconnect the battery.
• Before installing the fuel pump cover, you can inspect the pump for leaks by starting the car and examining it for any signs of wetness.

Check for leaks

When replacing the fuel pump, it is important to check for leaks. Fuel leaks can be extremely dangerous and should be dealt with immediately.

Before reinstalling the fuel pump cover, reconnect the battery and start the car. Inspect the pump for any signs of wetness. This will indicate whether there is a fuel leak.

If there is a fuel leak, it is important to identify the source of the leak. This could be due to a punctured or corroded gas tank, faulty fuel lines, or a problem with the new fuel pump.

If the fuel tank is the source of the leak, the mechanic will need to drain the old tank, disconnect the fuel lines, and remove the tank. They will then install a new tank, ensuring that all the appropriate parts are reconnected, before refuelling and testing the vehicle.

If the fuel lines are the source of the leak, these will need to be replaced.

If the new fuel pump is the source of the leak, check that the locking ring is securely tightened. If the locking ring is secure and the fuel pump is still leaking, you may need to replace the pump.

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