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Replacing a fuel pump on a 2002 Buick Century is a complex task that requires a good deal of automotive knowledge. The fuel pump is located in the gas tank, and while it's not necessary to drop the fuel tank, it is necessary to drain it. The pump is tested to ensure it's faulty, and then it's removed from the tank through an access panel. If there's no access panel, the fuel tank must be lowered from the vehicle. The fuel pump supply and return hoses, EVAP system hoses, and electrical connections must all be removed. Once the new pump is installed, fuel is added to the tank, and the engine is run to test for leaks.
What You'll Learn
Disconnect the battery
Disconnecting the battery is the first step when replacing the fuel pump in a 2002 Buick Century. This is a crucial safety precaution to reduce the chance of a fire.
To disconnect the battery, first locate the battery in the engine bay. It is usually located near the front of the engine bay, on the side closest to the windshield. Once you have located the battery, look for the negative battery cable. This will be a thick, black cable connected to the negative terminal of the battery, which is usually marked with a "-" symbol.
Before disconnecting the cable, make sure you have the necessary tools, such as a wrench or socket that fits the battery terminal. Some batteries also have a retaining bolt or clamp that needs to be removed before the cable can be disconnected. Once you are ready, loosen the nut or bolt on the negative terminal using the appropriate tool. Do not allow the wrench or socket to touch any other metal parts of the car, as this could cause a short circuit. Once the nut or bolt is loose, carefully remove the cable from the battery terminal. Be sure to avoid touching the cable to any metal parts of the car, as this could cause a spark and potentially start a fire.
Now that the battery is disconnected, you can proceed with the rest of the fuel pump replacement procedure. Remember to exercise caution when working with the fuel system, as it can be dangerous. Always refer to the vehicle's repair manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions specific to your car.
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Remove the fuel tank access cover
To remove the fuel tank access cover on a 2002 Buick Century, you will first need to relieve the fuel system pressure. This can be done by draining the fuel tank with a handheld siphon until the level is less than a quarter full.
Next, remove or disconnect the following:
- Negative battery cable
- Spare tire and jack
- Floor trunk liner (pull it back)
Now you can remove the fuel sender access panel. This is the fuel tank access cover.
To install the new fuel tank access cover, you will need to connect the following:
- New O-ring on the fuel tank
- Fuel sender
- Lockring on the fuel sender
- Fuel sender electrical connector
- Fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector
- Quick connect fittings at the fuel sender
- Negative battery cable
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Drain the fuel tank
To drain the fuel tank of a 2002 Buick Century, you will need a handheld siphon. Insert the siphon into the fuel tank and drain the tank until the fuel level is less than a quarter full.
It is important to relieve the fuel system pressure before draining the tank. Additionally, ensure that you are taking the necessary precautions when working with the fuel system to prevent the risk of fire.
Once the tank is drained, you can proceed with the next steps of the fuel pump replacement process. These include removing or disconnecting various components, such as the negative battery cable, spare tire and jack, floor trunk liner, fuel sender access panel, fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector, fuel sender electrical connector, fuel sender assembly quick connect fittings, and the retaining lockring from the fuel sender.
After the necessary parts have been removed or disconnected, you can then install the new fuel pump and reconnect the components. Finally, refill the fuel tank and test the vehicle to ensure it is functioning properly.
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Remove the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector
To remove the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector on a 2002 Buick Century, you will first need to relieve the fuel system pressure. This is an important safety step to avoid any accidental spillage or injury. Next, drain the fuel tank using a handheld siphon until the fuel level is less than a quarter full.
Once the fuel tank is drained, you can proceed to remove the negative battery cable. This is a crucial step to prevent any electrical sparks or short circuits during the repair process. Ensure that you have the necessary tools and safety equipment before proceeding.
Now, you can start to remove components that may obstruct access to the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector. Remove the spare tire and jack, as well as the floor trunk liner by pulling it back. This will give you better access to the fuel sender access panel.
With the trunk liner moved, you should now be able to locate and remove the fuel sender access panel. This will expose the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector. Carefully disconnect the electrical connector, ensuring that you do not damage any wires or components.
At this point, you have successfully removed the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector. Remember to reinstall the connector properly when you are finished with your repairs or maintenance. Always exercise caution when working with automotive fuel systems and refer to a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.
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Check for leaks
Once the fuel pump has been replaced, the ignition should be turned on for two seconds and then turned off for ten seconds. After this, turn the ignition on again and check for leaks. Repeat this process, turning the ignition off and on and checking for leaks.
If there are any fuel leaks or odours, do not start or drive the car, and do not park inside your house or under a covered structure. Instead, have the car towed to a shop for an inspection and repair.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you don't have to drop the fuel tank. You can relieve the fuel system pressure, drain the tank using a handheld siphon, and then remove the necessary parts to access the fuel pump.
The cost to replace a fuel pump on a 2002 Buick Century ranges from $749.96 to $1,840.70. The labor costs are estimated to be between $128 and $162, while the parts cost between $41 and $1,251.
A failing fuel pump may cause a loss of engine power, prevent the car from starting, or cause the check engine light to come on. It may also make a lot of noise.
Driving with a failing fuel pump is not recommended as it can cause the car to not start or run. If the problem involves leaks of gasoline or vapors, it is unsafe, and you should get it checked immediately.
Fuel pumps do not have a specific replacement interval. However, the likelihood of replacement increases as the mileage on the car increases. Repeatedly running the fuel tank low or driving with clogged fuel filters can shorten its lifespan.