Replacing Fuel Pump In 2005 Tiburon: Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to replace the fuel pump on your 2005 Hyundai Tiburon, you've come to the right place. This job can cost anywhere between $860 and $1,553, with labour costs estimated between $63 and $79, and parts priced between $798 and $1,474. While there are online forums and YouTube videos that can guide you through the process, unless you are very experienced in auto repair, it is recommended that you leave this job to the professionals due to the risk of fire.

Disconnect the battery to reduce the chance of a fire

Disconnecting the battery of a crashed car is a standard safety procedure that firefighters follow to reduce the risk of fire. While it is not always possible to disconnect the battery, doing so when accessible is a recommended practice.

In the context of replacing the fuel pump in a 2005 Hyundai Tiburon, disconnecting the battery is a crucial safety precaution. Working on the fuel pump involves accessing the fuel system, which contains flammable liquids and vapors. By disconnecting the battery, the risk of an accidental spark or electrical malfunction that could ignite a fire is significantly reduced.

Additionally, modern cars with electric seats may react to a disconnected battery by moving closer to the steering wheel or dashboard, creating more space for the rescue team to work. This movement can be particularly useful when accessing the fuel pump, as it is typically located in the rear of the vehicle, near the fuel tank.

It is worth noting that simply disconnecting the battery may not be sufficient to completely eliminate the risk of fire. Some modern vehicles have multiple batteries, and others may have residual power stored in capacitors that can still cause a fire or airbag deployment. However, disconnecting the battery remains an essential step in mitigating the overall risk.

By following standard safety procedures, such as disconnecting the battery, firefighters can focus on the task at hand while minimizing the chances of a fire or other hazardous situations during the fuel pump replacement process.

Remove the back seat to access the fuel pump

To remove the back seat of a Hyundai Tiburon, you will need a 1/2-inch socket wrench. You should also disconnect the negative terminal on the battery or remove the fuse in the fuse box under the steering wheel labelled "Room-LP" to avoid having the trunk and door lights on during the process.

First, pull out and up on the two little handles on the front of the bottom seat. Then, there are two screws about a foot in from each side of the car. You can use an extension with a ratchet between the back and bottom seat to easily get to them.

For the back seat, there is a tab on each side on the bottom of the bench that you push in to remove it. Alternatively, there should be a piece of cloth like a flap on the end of the seat that can be lifted up to reveal a bracket with two bolts for each seat. Simply unbolt them, and the seat backs should come out.

Check for fuel leaks and pressure

Checking for fuel leaks and pressure is an important aspect of car maintenance, as a leaking fuel line can be dangerous and impact your car's performance. Here are some detailed steps to help you check for fuel leaks and pressure in your 2005 Hyundai Tiburon:

Signs of a Leaking Fuel Line

Overwhelming Smell of Gasoline

The strong and distinct smell of gasoline inside your car is a clear indication of a fuel leak. This is often the first sign that drivers notice. The gaseous fumes can cause headaches and nausea for passengers and also pose a fire risk.

Visible Leaks

After a long drive or when the car has been stationary for a while, check for any visible leaks along the side of your vehicle, especially around the doors. Visible leaks can absorb dust and debris, which can then enter the fuel line and cause further issues and engine problems.

Reduction in Engine Performance

A damaged fuel line can cause engine performance issues. If your car is struggling to start, idling roughly, or experiencing power loss, this could be due to a fuel line leak. A leaking fuel line can lead to too much air and not enough fuel in the engine's combustion chamber, which can cause overheating and engine damage.

Hissing Sound

A damaged fuel line may produce a hissing sound, similar to a tire releasing air. This is most noticeable when the engine is idling or has just been turned off, and it may be accompanied by a drop in fuel efficiency due to a loss of pressure in the fuel system.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light can indicate a range of issues, but if it comes on along with other problems like fuel odours or performance issues, it's worth checking the fuel line.

Mechanic's Inspections

Visual Inspection

Mechanics will visually inspect the entire length of the fuel line for any signs of cracks, wear, or damage. They will pay close attention to connections and junctions, which are more susceptible to leaks.

Pressure Testing

Pressure testing is a common method used by professionals to identify leaks in the fuel system. This test can confirm the integrity of your fuel line if you suspect any issues.

Checking for Corrosion

Corrosion is a common cause of fuel line damage, especially in older vehicles or those exposed to harsh environments. Inspect for any signs of rust or corrosion on the fuel line.

Diagnostic Tools

Specialised diagnostic tools available at automotive service centres can also help detect fuel line issues.

If you suspect any issues with your fuel line, it is important to consult a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your safety.

Drain fuel if necessary before removing the access panel

When replacing the fuel pump of a 2005 Hyundai Tiburon, it is important to take precautions to prevent the risk of fire. Before removing the access panel, it is necessary to disconnect the battery to reduce the chance of a fire. If the fuel pump is inside the fuel tank, which is usually the case, there will be an access cover that needs to be removed. In some cases, you will need to drain the fuel before removing this access panel.

Draining the fuel is a crucial step to ensure a safe working environment and to protect the surrounding components from potential fuel leakage. This step may vary depending on the specific model of your 2005 Tiburon and the location of the fuel pump. It is always recommended to refer to the vehicle's repair manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about the process.

To drain the fuel, you will need to locate the fuel tank and identify the fuel pump access panel. Place a suitable container under the fuel tank to collect the drained fuel. You can then proceed to carefully loosen the drain plug or valve to release the fuel. Ensure that you are wearing appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to avoid any contact with the fuel. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of fuel vapors.

Once the fuel is completely drained, you can proceed to remove the access panel. This will provide access to the fuel pump for replacement. Remember to properly dispose of the drained fuel according to local regulations and guidelines. This process can vary depending on your location, so be sure to refer to the appropriate disposal methods for your area.

Replace the fuel filter at the same time

To replace the fuel filter on a 2005 Hyundai Tiburon, you will first need to locate the fuel pump, which is under the back seat, underneath a black oval plastic cap with wires coming out. Once you have located the fuel pump, you can follow these steps to replace the fuel filter:

• Remove the lower portion of the rear seat.
• Remove the access panel to the fuel tank.
• Remove the pump pickup to access the fuel filter.
• Detach the fuel filter from the fuel pump.
• Install the new fuel filter onto the fuel pump.
• Reattach the pump pickup, access panel, and rear seat.

It is important to note that the fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank, so you will need to remove the fuel pump to access it. Additionally, the fuel filter is recommended to be replaced every 60,000 miles or 100,000 miles, depending on the source. However, some people choose to replace it sooner as a preventative measure.

Frequently asked questions