Ameer Randolph
Replacing the fuel pump relay in an E46 is a straightforward task that can be completed in around 30 minutes, even by a novice. Before replacing the fuel pump, it is important to verify that it has 12v across the pump's two wires. The fuel pump relay is located in different places depending on the model of E46. For example, on the M3 Coupe, it is located above the right shock tower, whereas on the M3 Convertible, it is behind the passenger-side rear door panel. The fuel pump relay and the horn relays are the same, so swapping them around may resolve the issue.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken to replace | 30 minutes |
| Cost of replacement | $150-$500 |
| Location of relay | Under the glove box, in the trunk, or behind the passenger side rear door panel |
| Verification of bad fuel pump | Check for 12v across the pump 2 wires |
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What You'll Learn
How to locate the fuel pump relay
To locate the fuel pump relay in an E46, you'll need to identify the make and model of your car. In an M3 Coupe, for example, the fuel pump relay is located right above the right shock tower. In an M3 Convertible, it's behind the passenger-side rear door panel.
For other models, the fuel pump relay may be located in the rear trunk, as is the case for M3 US cars. Some E46s may also have the fuel pump relay under the hood on the driver's side near the firewall inside a sealed box.
If you're having trouble locating the fuel pump relay, it may be helpful to refer to diagrams or videos specific to your model. You can also verify that your fuel pump has 12v across the pump 2 wires before proceeding with any replacements.
It's important to note that the fuel pump relay is different from the fuel filter, which may also cause issues with your car starting. Later model E46s have the fuel pressure regulator built into the fuel filter, so it's worth considering this as a potential source of the problem.
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How to check if the fuel pump relay needs replacing
To check if the fuel pump relay in your E46 needs replacing, first put the key in the accessory position. If you can hear the fuel pump prime, the relay is working. If you can't hear the pump, try swapping the horn and fuel pump relays. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the fuel pump relay.
The fuel pump relay is located behind the glove box, and there's another fuse under the hood. You can also check the fuel rail for fuel by popping the hood and using a rag and a flat-head screwdriver to actuate the Schrader valve.
If your fuel pump relay is dropping voltage, it may need to be replaced. You can also try replacing the fuel filter/regulator and cleaning out the ICV.
It's worth noting that the fuel pump relay is different on USDM E46 M3s. These vehicles have a special relay called the EKPS, which does PWM control of the fuel pump.
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How to replace the fuel pump relay
To replace the fuel pump relay on an E46, first check that the fuel pump is receiving 12v across its two wires. If it is not, then you may need to replace the fuel pump relay. The fuel pump relay is located in the rear trunk on M3 US cars, or behind the passenger side rear door panel on M3 Convertibles.
To replace the fuel pump relay, first purchase a new relay. The fuel pump relay is one of the light green relays under the glove box. Once you have located the fuel pump relay, swap it out with the new one. This process should take no longer than 30 minutes, even for a novice beginner.
If you are still experiencing issues with your fuel pump after replacing the relay, you may need to replace the fuel pump itself.
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How to identify the correct fuel pump relay
To identify the correct fuel pump relay for your BMW E46, you will need to locate the relays. On some models, these are exposed by removing the glove box. On other models, the fuel pump relay is located right above the right shock tower, or behind the passenger side rear door panel. Once you have located the relays, you can identify the correct one by checking for power at pin 2 (red and white wire) and ground pin 1. You will need to check for voltage while cranking. You should see 12 volts while cranking, and this should also light a test light. You can also try to jump the pump using a battery to the power and ground pins. The pump should run with a 12v supply.
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How to avoid replacing the fuel pump relay
To avoid replacing the fuel pump relay, you can try swapping your horn and fuel relays around. This may resolve the issue.
Before replacing the fuel pump relay, you should also verify that there is 12v across the pump's two wires.
If your starter cranks the car and it started with starting fluid, your battery is likely fine. You may want to consider the fuel filter as the problem. Later model E46s have the fuel pressure regulator built into the fuel filter, so the filter assembly or the vacuum line going to it could be the issue.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel pump relay is located in the back on the passenger side. On the M3 Coupe, it's located right above the right shock tower. On the M3 Convertible, it's behind the passenger side rear door panel.
If your car is not starting or sputtering, and the code reader is saying fuel pump relay, you may need to replace it. Before replacing the fuel pump, verify that it has 12v across the pump 2 wires.
Replacing a fuel pump relay is a relatively easy task and should only take around 30 minutes, even for a novice beginner.
