Replacing Fuel Pump In Honda Accord: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel pump on a Honda Accord is a complex process that requires careful attention to safety. The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the fuel injectors, and issues with the pump can cause engine problems or even prevent the car from starting. While it is possible to replace the fuel pump yourself, it is recommended that you seek a professional mechanic due to the risk of fire. The process involves disconnecting the battery, draining the fuel tank, removing the old pump, and installing a new one. This can cost between $1,048 and $1,402, with labour costs estimated between $85 and $107, and parts priced between $964 and $1,295.

Diagnose the fuel pump

Diagnosing a bad fuel pump can be tricky, as many factors can cause the pump to fail. Here are some detailed instructions to help you diagnose a faulty fuel pump in your Honda Accord:

Listen for Unusual Noises

A damaged fuel pump may emit a loud, whining sound coming from the gas tank. This noise can indicate an issue with the pump, especially if you hear a low hum usually. Additionally, if the pump is making unusual noises, such as a constant clicking or rhythmic knocking, it could be a sign of mechanical damage.

Check for Starting Issues

If your Honda Accord struggles to start, it could be due to a faulty fuel pump that cannot deliver enough fuel to the engine. A worn-out pump loses pressure, starving the engine of the required gasoline. However, if the engine doesn't start at all, it could be due to various reasons, including a dead battery, alternator issues, or a faulty starter.

Observe Engine Behaviour

Pay attention to how your engine behaves while driving. If it sputters and threatens to stall at higher speeds, it could be due to an inconsistent fuel stream from the pump. Additionally, if your engine dies while driving or immediately after starting, it could be a sign of a failing fuel pump that is unable to build sufficient pressure.

Monitor Power Loss

If you notice a loss of power when driving up steep inclines or carrying heavy cargo, the fuel pump may be the culprit. When the engine is under stress, it requires more fuel to operate, and a faulty pump may not be able to deliver the required amount.

Check for Power Surges

A faulty fuel pump can cause power surges while driving, resulting in speed spikes and drops. Additionally, it can lead to lower fuel efficiency as the pump pushes too much fuel into the engine, causing you to burn more gas than usual.

Inspect the Fuel Filter and Lines

A blocked fuel filter or clogged fuel lines can lead to poor fuel economy and engine hesitation or surging. Ensure the fuel filter is replaced regularly, as per the maintenance schedule, and check for any blockages in the fuel lines.

Check Engine Light and Trouble Codes

A flashing check engine light, coupled with rough idling or stalling, could indicate a bad fuel system. Check for trouble codes in your car to diagnose any faults. Additionally, monitor your fuel gauge for abnormal fluctuations, as this can also indicate a faulty fuel system.

Test Fuel Pressure

Use a fuel pressure gauge to test the fuel pressure. If the pressure is too low or inconsistent, it could be due to a faulty fuel pump or a problem with the fuel pressure regulator.

Check the Voltage and Grounding

Ensure that the fuel pump is receiving proper voltage and has a good ground connection. Insufficient voltage or a poor ground can lead to pump failure.

Inspect the Fuel Tank and Lines

Remove the fuel tank and inspect the inside for any loose baffles or debris that may be causing issues with the fuel pump. Additionally, check the fuel lines for any signs of collapse or restriction.

Consult a Mechanic

If you are unsure or unable to perform these checks yourself, it is best to consult a trusted mechanic or a Honda dealership to diagnose and address any issues with your fuel pump.

Remember, a failing fuel pump can be dangerous and lead to unexpected stalling. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to address them promptly to ensure your safety and avoid further complications.

Siphon out the gas tank

"Before beginning any work on your Honda Accord's fuel system, it is crucial to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Work in a well-ventilated area, turn off the engine, and ensure the ignition is off. Working with fuel can be dangerous, so take the necessary precautions. Wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection, and have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Now, to begin siphoning the gas tank, first locate the fuel tank. For your Honda Accord, the fuel tank is located at the rear of the vehicle, underneath the trunk. You will need to safely jack up the car and ensure it is securely supported before proceeding. Once you have identified the fuel tank, locate the fuel pump access panel. This is usually a small, removable panel at the top of the fuel tank. Remove this panel to expose the fuel pump and the fuel level sensor.

Place a suitable container or gas can below the fuel pump to catch the siphoned gasoline. You can use a hand siphon pump or a small, battery-operated fuel transfer pump to carefully siphon the gas from the tank. Ensure that the container you are using is approved for fuel storage and is properly grounded to prevent any static electricity sparks.

With the container in place, carefully insert the siphon hose into the fuel tank through the opening where the fuel pump is located. You may need to remove any protective caps or covers from the fuel pump to access the tank. Ensure that the hose reaches the bottom of the fuel tank to extract as much gasoline as possible. Start siphoning by pumping or activating the transfer pump, ensuring that you monitor the process closely to avoid any spills or overflows.

Continue siphoning until the gas tank is close to empty, leaving just a small amount of fuel at the bottom. This will reduce the risk of spillage when you remove the fuel pump and ensure that the majority of the gasoline is safely stored in your container. Once you have siphoned enough fuel, carefully remove the siphon hose and securely close the fuel pump opening to prevent any gasoline vapors from escaping."

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively siphon the gas tank of your Honda Accord when replacing the fuel pump, ensuring a safer work environment and a more accessible fuel pump replacement process. Remember always to handle gasoline with caution and properly dispose of any used fuel or waste according to your local regulations.

Disconnect the fuel-sending unit

To disconnect the fuel-sending unit of your Honda Accord, start by raising the car with a jack and securing it with jack stands. The fuel-sending unit is found underneath the access hatch located inside the trunk. Open the hatch and disconnect the unit. You will need to separate the harness from the fuel gauge access plate cover by pushing the rubber harness fitting from the plate. Push the harness through the access hole and on top of the fuel tank. It will come out and stay with the tank. Make sure to also disconnect the hoses and tubes at their "car side end" rather than their "tank side end".

Disconnect the fuel lines

To disconnect the fuel lines of a Honda Accord, follow these steps:

First, remove the rear left wheel. There are four fuel lines that need to be disconnected, and they are all located behind the left rear wheel. Once the wheel is off, you can begin disconnecting the fuel lines. There are two hard lines, a high-pressure line, one brass line that connects directly to the tank, and a large line for fuel input. Be sure to have a container ready to catch any fuel that may spill during this process.

The next step is to remove the fuel pump itself. To do this, first disconnect the clip on top of the fuel pump. Then, use a 10mm socket to remove the nuts that secure the fuel pump to the tank. Pull the unit out from the tank and remove the pump from its bracket. Be sure to disconnect the fuel lines from the pump before fully removing it.

Now, you can install the new pump. Mount the new pump to its holder and position it correctly inside the gas tank. There is a small plastic container located inside the tank, and the pump should be placed inside this container, where the fuel pick-up is.

Finally, you can reconnect the fuel lines and mount the fuel tank. Ensure that the high-pressure line is tightened securely. Put the wheel back on and lower the vehicle.

It is important to work with caution when dealing with the fuel system, as there is a risk of fire. Always take the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents.

Remove the fuel pump

To remove the fuel pump from a Honda Accord, you will first need to lift the rear end of the car and secure it on jack stands. Crawl under the vehicle and disconnect the fuel gauge and fuel pump power from its harness in the trunk. Leave the electrical harness connected to the tank. Separate the harness from the fuel gauge access plate cover by pushing the rubber harness fitting from the plate. Push the harness through the access hole and on top of the fuel tank.

Disconnect the hoses and tubes at their 'car side end' rather than their 'tank side end'. The tank is held in place by two straps, which can be removed using a 14mm bolt. Place a hydraulic jack with a long piece of wood under the tank and loosen the straps. Once the straps are off, slowly lower the tank to relieve the pressure from the jack.

Disconnect the clip on top of the fuel pump and use a 10mm socket to remove the nuts that secure the fuel pump to the tank. Once all the nuts are off, pull the unit out from the tank and remove the pump from its bracket.

Frequently asked questions