Replacing Fuel Pump In '99 Camry: Step-By-Step Guide

If your 1999 Toyota Camry is struggling to start, stalls after starting, or the check engine light comes on, it may be time to replace the fuel pump. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, delivering fuel to the engine. This moderately complicated job is best performed by a mechanic or dealership service department, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can also replace the fuel pump yourself. This article will guide you through the process of replacing the fuel pump in your 1999 Toyota Camry, ensuring your car runs smoothly again.

Identify the type of fuel pump in your Toyota Camry

There are two different types of fuel pumps in the Toyota Camry. Type A uses a bracket to mount the fuel pump onto the pump assembly, and Type B uses a housing to contain the fuel pump.

To identify which type of fuel pump your Toyota Camry has, you will need to remove the rear seat and liner to access the fuel pump and sending unit access cover. Once you have removed the electrical connector and disconnected the fuel line from the pump, you can identify the type of fuel pump by observing how it is mounted.

If your fuel pump is mounted onto the pump assembly with a bracket, it is a Type A fuel pump. If your fuel pump is contained within a housing, it is a Type B fuel pump.

It is important to identify the correct type of fuel pump before attempting to replace it, as the instructions for removal and reassembly differ between the two types.

Depressurise the fuel system

Depressurising the fuel system is the first step in replacing the fuel pump on a 1999 Toyota Camry. This is an important safety measure as the fuel system in these cars is under constant pressure.

Step 1: Open the gas cap. This will relieve some of the pressure in the fuel tank.

Step 2: Locate the fuse panel under the hood and remove the relay "C/OPN". This will further reduce the pressure in the system.

Step 3: Start the engine and let it run until it stops. This will ensure that any remaining pressure in the fuel lines is released.

Step 4: Disconnect the negative battery cable. It is important to note that if your car stereo is equipped with an anti-theft system, you should make sure you have the correct activation code before disconnecting the battery.

By following these steps, you will have successfully depressurised the fuel system and can proceed with the next steps in replacing the fuel pump. It is important to exercise caution when working on any part of the fuel system to avoid injury or damage to the vehicle.

Disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump

To disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump of a 1999 Toyota Camry, you must first relieve the fuel system pressure. Open the gas cap, remove the rear seat and liner, disconnect the harness connector, and start the engine. Allow it to run until it stops, then disconnect the negative battery terminal. Be sure to have the correct activation code if your car stereo is equipped with an anti-theft system.

Next, loosen the fuel line fitting at the bottom of the fuel filter. Fuel will leak out, so be prepared with rags and/or a container to catch it. If it is a flared fitting, use a wrench and a backing wrench. If it is a quick-disconnect fitting, pinch the tabs, push, and then pull the fitting off the fuel line. Make sure to replace the retainer on the fuel line once it has been disconnected.

To access the quick-disconnect line, you will need to remove the fuel tank fitting protector mounting screws. Once the fuel line is disconnected, you can proceed to remove the fuel pump retaining bolts and the fuel pump assembly.

Remove the fuel pump retaining bolts

To remove the fuel pump retaining bolts, you will need to relieve the fuel system pressure. Start by removing the fuel tank cap. Next, remove the rear seat and liner to access the fuel pump/sending unit access cover. Disconnect the harness connector and start the engine, letting it run until it stops. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

Loosen the fuel line fitting at the bottom of the fuel filter—be prepared for fuel to leak out. You may need to use a wrench and a backing wrench if it is a flared fitting, or you can pinch the tabs and pull the fitting off if it is a quick-disconnect fitting. Remember to replace the retainer on the fuel line once it has been disconnected.

Now that the fuel system pressure has been relieved, you can disconnect the fuel line from the pump. Finally, remove the retaining bolts that hold the fuel pump and sending unit in place. This will allow you to remove the assembly.

Reassemble the fuel pump/sending unit assembly

To reassemble the fuel pump/sending unit assembly, you will need to follow the removal process in reverse.

First, you will need to install the new fuel pump into the assembly housing. This will involve reconnecting the electrical connector to the filter for the fuel sock and replacing the rubber isolator. You will then need to place the fuel pump/sending unit back into the plastic support.

Next, you will need to reconnect the electrical and fuel line connectors to the fuel pump. Ensure that the retaining bolts are tightened securely.

Once the fuel pump and sending unit assembly is reassembled, you can replace the assembly into the fuel tank and bolt it in place.

After that, you will need to reconnect the electrical connectors and reattach the fuel line.

Finally, you can reinstall the rear seats and the fuel tank cap.

It is important to note that you will need to pressurize the fuel system after completing the reassembly. This can be done by turning the ignition on and off for a few seconds, repeating this sequence several times.

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