Replacing The Fuel Pump In A Fiat Punto: Step-By-Step Guide

If your Fiat Punto is hesitating while you try to accelerate, you may need to replace the fuel pump. This can be done in a few hours, and you can find video tutorials and step-by-step manuals online. The fuel pump is located under the back seat. You will need to remove the rear seat and metal cover to access it. Before starting the replacement, release the tank pressure and leave it open. You will also need to remove the fuel lines and the electric plug/connector on the pump. Be sure to purchase a complete assembly kit, which includes a new inlet filter.

Removing the back seat

To remove the back seat of your Fiat Punto, start by pulling up the rear seat to expose the fuel pump cover. You will need a screwdriver to remove the metal cover. Once the cover is off, release the tank pressure and leave it open while you work. The fuel pump is held in place by a big plastic nut. Spray this with some penetrating oil and wait. Next, start the engine and let it idle. Then, pull out the electric plug/connector on the pump—the engine will die, and there will be no pressure in the fuel lines. Now you can gently remove the fuel lines, being sure to remember which is IN and which is OUT.

Exposing the fuel pump

To expose the fuel pump, you must first locate it. In the Fiat Punto, the fuel pump is located under the back seat. Start by pulling up the back seat to expose the fuel pump cover. This is usually a metal cover that can be removed with a screwdriver. Once you have removed the cover, you will see the fuel pump.

Before proceeding further, it is important to release the tank pressure and leave it open during the replacement procedure. The fuel pump is held tightly in place by a big plastic nut. To remove the nut, spray a generous amount of penetrating oil and wait for it to take effect.

Now, start the engine and let it idle for a moment. Then, pull out the electric plug/connector on the pump, which will cause the engine to die, and there will be no pressure in the fuel lines. At this point, you can gently remove the fuel lines, being mindful of the inlet and outlet directions.

If you encounter difficulty in removing the plastic nut, you may need to use a punch/chisel to tap it and help it start moving. Alternatively, you can try using two chisels and hammers simultaneously. If this approach also fails, you may need to improvise your own special service tool (SST) to remove the nut.

With the nut removed, you can now access the fuel pump assembly. Be cautious when handling the black rubber gasket, as it is crucial for maintaining a proper seal. Clean the gasket and set it aside for later use during the installation of the new pump.

Now, carefully inspect the inside of the tank. It is recommended to have a low level of fuel during this procedure to facilitate easier cleaning of the tank. Look out for any dirt, dust, or foreign objects that may have accumulated inside.

Before proceeding to install the new pump, ensure that you have purchased a complete assembly kit, which includes the necessary components such as the level indicator and floater.

Releasing tank pressure

Releasing the tank pressure is an important step when replacing the fuel pump in a Fiat Punto. This step ensures that there is no pressure in the fuel lines, making it safe to remove the old fuel pump and install the new one. Here is a detailed guide on how to release the tank pressure:

Before beginning any work on your Fiat Punto's fuel system, it is essential to park the car in a well-ventilated area and put on appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves.

To start releasing the tank pressure, locate the fuel pump cover under the back seat of your Fiat Punto. Pull up the seat to expose the cover. You will then need to remove this metal cover using a screwdriver. With the cover removed, you will have access to the fuel pump.

The next step is to release the tank pressure or vacuum. To do this, leave the fuel pump cover open during the replacement procedure. This will ensure that any pressure built up in the tank is released, and you won't have to deal with pressurised fuel during the replacement process.

While the tank pressure is being released, it is important to avoid any ignition sources or sparks near the fuel pump. Keep the area well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of flammable fumes.

Once you have confirmed that the tank pressure has been released, you can proceed with the next steps in the fuel pump replacement procedure. Remember to refer to a qualified mechanic or a Fiat Punto service manual for the complete fuel pump replacement process, as there are additional steps and safety precautions to consider.

By following these instructions for releasing the tank pressure, you can ensure a safer and more effective fuel pump replacement in your Fiat Punto.

Removing the fuel lines

To remove the fuel lines, you must first start the engine and let it idle for a moment. Then, pull out the electric plug/connector on the pump—this will cause the engine to die, and there will be no pressure in the fuel lines.

At this point, you can gently remove the fuel lines, being sure to remember which is the inlet and which is the outlet. Once the fuel lines are removed, you can move on to removing the big plastic nut that holds the fuel pump in place. This can be done by spraying penetrating oil and waiting, then tapping it with a punch/chisel to get it to start moving. If this doesn't work, you may need to use two chisels and hammers at the same time or improvise your own special service tool.

Installing the new pump

To install the new fuel pump, first, place the gasket into the tank hole, then insert the new pump assembly. Be careful with the level floater, and do not bend or break it. Next, tighten the plastic nut with your hands only, no tools are required. Tighten it until the pump assembly stops moving and can play freely under the nut. This will keep the pump in place and sealed.

Now, put back the fuel lines, ensuring you connect them the right way round (IN/OUT). Connect the electric plug, then fasten the metal cover and put the rear seat back in place. There is no need to bleed the air.

It is recommended to have a low level of fuel during this procedure as it is easier to clean the tank.

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