Replacing Fuel Pump In Eclipse: Step-By-Step Guide

If you're experiencing issues with your Mitsubishi Eclipse fuel pump, it may be time for a replacement. The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the fuel injectors, and a failing pump can cause a loss of engine power or even prevent the car from starting. While it is a complex process, with the right tools and safety precautions, you can replace the fuel pump yourself. This involves disconnecting the battery, relieving the fuel system pressure, removing the rear seat cushion, disconnecting fuel lines, and carefully installing a new fuel pump. The specific steps may vary depending on the make and model of your Eclipse, so it's important to refer to detailed guides or seek professional assistance if needed.

Check fuses, relays, and fuel levels

Before attempting to replace the fuel pump in your Mitsubishi Eclipse, it is important to check the fuses and relays, and ensure you have sufficient fuel. Checking fuses is a simple task that can save you time and money, and it is important to know how to do this as almost all the electricity in your car runs through fuses.

To check your car fuses, first, turn off the ignition. Then, locate the car fuse panel by checking your owner's manual. Once you have found the fuse panel, remove the cover and look for a fuse diagram. This diagram will show you which fuse corresponds to which device, making it easy to identify which fuse needs replacing.

Use a fuse puller, or tweezers, needle-nose pliers, or your fingers to remove the blown fuse from the panel. Hold the fuse up to the light to check if it is blown; if the wire element connecting the two sides is burned away, then the fuse is bad and will need replacing. Fuses are color-coded by amp rating, so make sure to replace the fuse with a new one that has an identical amperage.

If your new fuse blows soon after installing it, you may have a problem with that circuit, and you should schedule an appointment with your service station or dealer for an expert diagnosis.

Prepare the vehicle

The first step in preparing your Mitsubishi Eclipse for a fuel pump service is to ensure your safety. Working with fuel can be dangerous, so it is important to take the necessary precautions. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area, and do not smoke within 50 feet of your car.

Next, you will need to relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable with a wrench. This will reduce the chance of a fire. It is highly recommended that your gas tank is below a quarter of a tank; otherwise, you will have difficulty getting the fuel tank assembly back in.

Now, you can start removing the interior components to access the fuel pump. Start by taking out the rear seat cushion. For the Mitsubishi Eclipse, this involves pulling the seat stopper out and lifting the lower cushion up. Then, remove the inspection cover on the passenger side of the vehicle.

Once you have accessed the fuel pump, you will need to disconnect the fuel lines and unplug the fuel pump's electrical harness. Be very careful with the fuel feed line, as it may be pressurized and could spray gas in your car if it has not been sitting for a day or so. It is advisable to wear protective lenses for this step.

Finally, if your vehicle has all-wheel drive, you will need to remove the locking ring on the fuel pump assembly with a wrench. This will allow you to remove the fuel pump from the fuel tank.

Remove rear seat cushion

To remove the rear seat cushion of a Mitsubishi Eclipse, start by relieving the fuel system pressure and disconnecting the negative battery cable with a wrench. Next, locate the seat stopper and pull it out to release the seat from the top of the gas tank. Simultaneously, thread the rear seat belt locks through the seat to avoid any damage. Once the seat stopper is removed, lift the lower cushion up and set it aside. Now you can access the inspection cover on the passenger side of the vehicle and proceed with the next steps in changing the fuel pump.

Disconnect fuel lines and electrical harness

Disconnecting the fuel lines and electrical harness is a crucial step when replacing the fuel pump in a Mitsubishi Eclipse. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this:

First, ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area, as working with fuel can be dangerous and cause irritation. Roll down the windows, open the hatch, and ensure the garage is open. It is also important to not smoke within 50 feet of the car.

Before beginning the process of disconnecting the fuel lines and electrical harness, it is necessary to relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable with a wrench. This step is important for safety reasons and to reduce the chance of a fire.

Now, we can begin the process of disconnecting the fuel lines and electrical harness. The following steps are vehicle-specific and should be adjusted based on the year and model of your Mitsubishi Eclipse:

For the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse:

• Remove the rear seat cushion by pulling the seat stopper and lifting the lower cushion.
• Access the fuel pump by removing the inspection cover on the passenger side of the vehicle.
• Disconnect the fuel lines and electrical harness from the fuel pump.

For the 2000-2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse:

• Remove the rear lower seat cushion by pulling the tabs at the crotch area to release the seat from the top of the gas tank. Be careful with the seat belt locks.
• Remove the lid plate by unscrewing the four self-tapping screws and pulling the cable off the plate.
• Disconnect the two harnesses revealed after removing the lid plate.
• Carefully remove the fuel return line and the fuel feed line. Wear protective lenses during this step to protect your eyes.
• Continue with the removal of the black ring that encircles the fuel pump assembly. This step may require a special Mitsubishi tool or a flathead/Phillips-head screwdriver and a rubber mallet.
• Once the black ring is removed, carefully remove the fuel pump assembly from the gas tank. Place a bucket nearby to catch any fuel spillage.
• Take apart the fuel assembly, ensuring you have disconnected all electrical connections.

By following these steps, you will have successfully disconnected the fuel lines and electrical harness, allowing you to proceed with the next steps of replacing the fuel pump in your Mitsubishi Eclipse. Remember to always put your safety first when working with fuel and electrical systems.

Install new fuel pump

To install a new fuel pump in a Mitsubishi Eclipse, first ensure your gas tank is below a quarter full. Then, relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable with a wrench. Remove the rear seat cushion by pulling the seat stopper out and lifting the lower cushion up. Now, you can remove the inspection cover on the passenger side of the vehicle.

Disconnect the fuel lines and unplug the fuel pump's electrical harness. If your vehicle has all-wheel drive, remove the locking ring on the fuel pump assembly with a wrench. Remove the fuel pump from the fuel tank.

Install the new fuel pump into the fuel tank using the items included in the kit. Tighten the locking ring over the fuel pump if your vehicle has all-wheel drive. Close the inspection cover and connect the fuel hose and electrical harness. Reinstall the rear seat and negative battery cable.

Finally, check for any fuel leaks or odors. If you see or smell gasoline, do not start or drive the car, and do not park inside a garage or covered structure. Have the car towed to a shop for inspection and repair.

Frequently asked questions