Replacing The Fuel Pump In Your Saturn Vue

Changing the fuel pump on a Saturn Vue is a complex process. The fuel pump is located in the vehicle's gas tank and is responsible for supplying pressurised gasoline to the fuel injectors. To replace it, you will need to remove the fuel tank, disconnect the fuel supply line, and remove the fuel pump locking ring. You will also need to lubricate the fuel pump locking ring with penetrating oil and rotate it counterclockwise to disengage the locking tangs. This process can cost anywhere from $674 to $2600, depending on the model of your car and your location. It is important to note that working with the fuel system can be dangerous, so it is recommended that you let a professional handle this repair.

Removing the fuel tank

To remove the fuel tank from a Saturn Vue, first, remove the rubber exhaust hangers to allow the exhaust system to drop slightly. Then, remove the propeller shaft guard and shaft (if equipped). Next, clean all fuel pipe connections and surrounding areas before disconnecting the fuel pipes to avoid contamination of the fuel system. Disconnect the EVAP canister vent and fresh air hoses by grasping both sides of the quick-connect fitting, twisting the female connector 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen dirt, blowing out any dirt with compressed air, squeezing the plastic retainer release tabs, and pulling the connection apart. Inspect both ends of the quick-connect fitting for dirt and burrs.

Remove the fuel filler pipe, EVAP vent hose, and fresh air hose from the fuel tank. Place fuel lines into an approved container with a minimum 12-inch diameter opening to adequately catch the fuel. Disconnect the fuel supply line from the fuel filter, the fuel tank ground strap fastener, and the fuel tank electrical connector. Do not bend the fuel tank straps, as this may cause damage. Support the fuel tank and remove the fuel tank strap bolts. Lower the fuel tank from the underbody of the vehicle.

Disconnecting the EVAP canister vent and fresh air hoses

First, locate the EVAP canister vent and fresh air hoses. These hoses are connected to the fuel tank and are responsible for venting vapours from the fuel system and supplying fresh air to the tank. To disconnect them, follow these steps:

• Grasp both sides of the quick-connect fitting, which is the connector between the hoses and the fuel tank.
• Twist the female connector a quarter turn (1/4 turn) in each direction. This will help loosen any dirt or debris within the fitting.
• Use compressed air to blow out any remaining dirt or debris from the quick-connect fitting.
• Squeeze the plastic retainer release tabs on the fitting.
• Pull the connection apart, separating the hoses from the fuel tank.
• Inspect both ends of the quick-connect fitting for any dirt, burrs, or other contaminants. Ensure that the connection is clean before proceeding.
• Remove the fuel filler pipe, EVAP vent hose, and fresh air hose from the fuel tank. Place these components aside, ensuring they are safely stored and protected from damage.

Note: It is important to exercise caution when working with fuel system components. Always place fuel lines in an approved container with a minimum diameter of 300 mm (12 inches) to adequately catch any fuel spillage.

By following these steps, you will successfully disconnect the EVAP canister vent and fresh air hoses, allowing you to access and replace the fuel pump in your Saturn Vue. Remember to refer to a qualified mechanic or a service manual for further instructions on replacing the fuel pump.

Disconnecting fuel supply lines

Disconnecting the fuel supply lines is a crucial step in replacing the fuel pump of a Saturn Vue. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to safely and effectively complete this task:

Firstly, it is important to clean all fuel pipe connections and the surrounding areas before disconnecting the fuel pipes to avoid contamination of the fuel system. This is a crucial safety precaution. Next, disconnect the EVAP canister vent and fresh air hoses. To do this, grasp both sides of the quick-connect fitting and twist the female connector a quarter turn in each direction to loosen any dirt inside. Blow out any remaining dirt using compressed air. Then, squeeze the plastic retainer release tabs and pull the connection apart. Inspect both ends of the quick-connect fitting for any remaining dirt or burrs.

Now, you can remove the fuel filler pipe, EVAP vent hose, and fresh air hose from the fuel tank. It is important to note that whenever fuel lines are removed, the fuel should be placed in an approved container with an opening of at least 300 mm (12 inches) in diameter to adequately catch the fuel. Once this is done, disconnect the fuel supply line from the fuel filter.

At this point, you have successfully disconnected the fuel supply lines from the fuel pump of the Saturn Vue. Remember to exercise extreme caution when working with fuel and only proceed if you are confident in your abilities. If you are unsure or uncomfortable, it is always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Removing the fuel pump

To remove the fuel pump from a Saturn Vue, you must first test the pump to ensure it is faulty. If it is, you can then remove the pump from the tank through an access panel above the tank in the passenger compartment. If there is no access panel, you must first drain the fuel from the tank, then lower the tank from the vehicle to access the pump.

Once you have access to the fuel pump, the next steps are to:

• Remove the fuel pump supply and return hoses.
• Remove the EVAP system hoses.
• Disconnect the electrical connections to the pump.
• Remove the pump from the tank, being careful not to bend the fuel level sensor arm.

It is important to note that you should always clean all fuel pipe connections and surrounding areas before disconnecting the fuel pipes to avoid contamination of the fuel system. Additionally, whenever fuel lines are removed, place fuel in an approved container with a minimum opening of 300 mm (12 inches) in diameter to adequately catch the fuel.

Reinstallation

To reinstall the fuel pump in your Saturn Vue, you will need to reverse the removal procedure.

First, ensure that any reusable brackets and pick-up screens are attached to the new pump. Then, carefully insert the new pump into the fuel tank, being cautious not to bend the fuel level sensor arm. Secure the pump by rotating the locking ring clockwise until the locking tangs engage.

Next, reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connector to the pump. Lubricate the fuel pump locking ring with penetrating oil. Reinstall the fuel tank strap bolts and raise the fuel tank back into position under the vehicle. Ensure that the fuel tank straps are not bent, as this can cause damage.

Reconnect the fuel tank electrical connector, fuel tank ground strap fastener, and fuel supply line to the fuel filter. Reinstall the fuel filler pipe, EVAP vent hose, and fresh air hose to the fuel tank. Ensure that all fuel pipe connections are clean and free of contamination before reconnecting them.

Finally, reinstall the propeller shaft and propeller shaft guard, if equipped. Reattach the rubber exhaust hangers to secure the exhaust system in place.

Once the fuel pump and related components have been reinstalled, add fuel to the tank and run the engine to test for any leaks.

Frequently asked questions