Replacing Fuel Pump In 2007 Dodge Charger: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel pump in a 2007 Dodge Charger is located inside the fuel tank. To replace it, you will need to disconnect the battery, remove an access cover, and then replace the pump and pre-pump filter screen. The process is moderately complicated and is best performed by a professional mechanic at a dealership service department or a repair shop. The average cost for a fuel pump replacement in a Dodge Charger is between $1,131 and $1,592, including parts and labor.

Disconnect the battery to reduce the chance of a fire

Disconnecting the battery is an important safety precaution when working on a car, especially when dealing with the fuel system. Here are some reasons why disconnecting the battery can reduce the chance of a fire when replacing the fuel pump in a 2007 Dodge Charger:

• Prevent Electrical Sparks: The battery is a source of electrical power, and by disconnecting it, you eliminate the risk of electrical sparks that could ignite fuel vapors or spills. This is crucial when working with flammable liquids such as gasoline.
• Reduce Risk of Short Circuits: Disconnecting the battery also helps prevent accidental short circuits, which could lead to electrical malfunctions or, in a worst-case scenario, a fire. It's important to keep the negative battery terminal away from the battery to avoid accidental reconnection during the repair process.
• Safety During Fuel System Work: Working on the fuel system, including the fuel pump, can be dangerous due to the presence of flammable liquids and vapors. Disconnecting the battery is a standard safety precaution to minimize the risk of fire or explosion during this type of work.
• Minimize Damage in Case of an Accident: In the unfortunate event of a fire or explosion, having the battery disconnected can help minimize damage to the vehicle's electrical system. It reduces the chances of the fire spreading or causing further issues with the electrical components.
• Safer Troubleshooting: If you need to troubleshoot electrical issues during the fuel pump replacement, having the battery disconnected adds an extra layer of safety. It allows you to work on electrical connections and components without the risk of sparks or short circuits.
• Standard Safety Protocol: Disconnecting the battery is a standard protocol recommended by automotive professionals when performing repairs or maintenance involving the fuel system. Following this protocol helps ensure the safety of both the vehicle and the person performing the work.

Remove the rear seat bottom to access the pump

To remove the rear seat bottom of a 2007 Dodge Charger, you will need to pull up hard on the seat until you hear it pop out of the car floor. There are metal loops that plug the seat into the floor. Once you have removed the lower seat, you can access the nuts and bolts that hold the seat in place. Loosen the nuts on the bolts at the bottom of the back part of the seat. You can then tilt the seat forward when you push down the metal spring clips.

To release the seat, push down on the spring clips with a long flat-head screwdriver. Slide the screwdriver between the rear upper seat and the trunk wall until you feel the metal spring clip go down. Then, tilt and pull that part of the seat forward. Insert something between the trunk wall and the upper rear seat to keep the seat from popping back in. Repeat this process on the other side.

The seat is held in place by two U-shaped wires that go into slots on either side at the front. It is a large pad that is clipped into place.

Drain the fuel tank

To drain the fuel tank of your 2007 Dodge Charger, you will need to remove the rear seat bottom. There is a foam pad on the driver's side under the seat cushion that you can peel back to access the pump. Before you begin, ensure that the tank is only half-full, and perform a de-fuelling procedure.

Remove the fuel filler cap, then the fuel pump relay in the rear fuse box. Next, turn the key and crank the engine—the car will either not start at all or start and sputter out after a few seconds. Turn the ignition key off, and disconnect the battery.

Now, you can begin to drain the fuel tank. Remove the plastic access cover and disconnect the electrical connector. Clean the area to prevent dirt from falling into the tank.

Remove the fuel pump relay and turn the engine

To remove the fuel pump relay and turn the engine of a 2007 Dodge Charger, follow these steps:

First, locate the fuel pump relay. It is located in the rear fuse box of the vehicle. Once you have found the fuel pump relay, remove it by pulling it out gently.

Now, you will need to use a small piece of electrical wire to connect the slots 30 and 87 on the relay. Slot 30 is the power line that gets power from fuse 6 (20 amp), and slot 87 is the line that sends power to the fuel pump. By connecting these two slots, you can test whether the fuel pump is working properly.

If the fuel pump operates and the engine starts, then the power side of the system is functioning correctly. However, if the engine does not start, then there may be an issue with the fuel pump or the wiring. In this case, further troubleshooting is required.

To confirm whether the issue is with the fuel pump or the wiring, use a voltmeter or test light to check for power at the pump. If there is no power at the pump, then the problem may be a broken or disconnected wire between the relay box and the pump.

If there is power at the pump, then the fuel pump itself may be faulty and need to be replaced. In this case, you can try getting power directly to the pump to see if it operates. If the pump still does not work, then it is likely that the fuel pump needs to be replaced.

Disconnect the electrical connector and clean the area

Disconnecting the electrical connector and cleaning the area is a crucial step in replacing the fuel pump in a 2007 Dodge Charger. Here is a detailed guide on how to approach this step:

First, ensure that you have removed the rear seat bottom to access the fuel pump. Once you have located the electrical connector, carefully disconnect it. It is important to be gentle during this process to avoid any damage. After the connector is disconnected, take some time to clean the area around it thoroughly. This step is important to prevent any dirt or debris from falling into the fuel tank, which could cause issues later on. Use a clean cloth or brush to wipe down the area, making sure that no dust or grime remains.

In addition to cleaning the area, it is also a good idea to inspect the electrical connector for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the connector shows any signs of deterioration, it may be a good idea to replace it while you have access to it. A faulty electrical connector could lead to fuel pump issues in the future, so taking a proactive approach can save you from potential headaches down the road.

Finally, with the area clean and the electrical connector inspected, you can now focus on the next steps in the fuel pump replacement process. Remember to work carefully and consult a professional mechanic if you have any doubts or concerns during the procedure.

Frequently asked questions