Replacing The Fuel Pump In A 95 Accord Wagon: Step-By-Step Guide

If your 1995 Honda Accord Wagon is sputtering or bucking, you may need to replace the fuel pump. A faulty fuel pump can cause a decrease in fuel pressure, leading to poor fuel economy and decreased vehicle performance. While replacing the fuel pump, caution must be taken to avoid smoking or creating sparks near flammable gas fumes. The process involves opening the trunk, locating the fuel pump, disconnecting the wiring harness, removing the pump, installing the new pump, and reconnecting the wiring. Some models may require dropping the fuel tank, while others have an access panel in the trunk.

Removing the fuel tank

To remove the fuel tank on a 1995 Honda Accord wagon, you will need to first block the front wheels and elevate the rear of the car, supporting it safely on stands.

Next, remove the drain bolt from the tank and drain the remaining fuel into an approved container. It is recommended to reuse this fuel unless it is heavily polluted with rust or water. Then, remove the cover from the fuel hoses on the side of the tank, and label and disconnect the hoses. Slide the clamps back, then twist and pull the hoses off the fittings.

Use a floor jack and a broad piece of wood under the tank, adjusting the position as necessary to allow the tank to be evenly supported. Remove the nuts holding the tank straps and let the straps fall free.

Finally, lower the jack and remove the tank from under the vehicle. The tank may be stuck to the undercoating on the body, so use a piece of wood to gently pry it loose if necessary.

Disconnecting the wiring harness

Step 1: Open the Trunk and Lift the Carpet

First, you'll need to access the wiring harness. Open the trunk of your 1995 Honda Accord and carefully lift the carpet to reveal the underlying components.

Step 2: Locate the Round Plate

Under the carpet, you should see a 6-inch round plate with three screws. This plate covers the bulkhead, which houses the fuel pump.

Step 3: Remove the Screws and Plate

Using a suitable screwdriver, remove the three screws from the round plate. Set the screws aside in a safe place to avoid losing them. Once the screws are removed, carefully lift and remove the plate.

Step 4: Disconnect the Wiring Harness

With the plate removed, you will now see the bulkhead and the wiring harness connected to it. The wiring harness is the bundle of wires that provides electrical power and control to the fuel pump. To disconnect it, carefully grasp the connector and gently pull it straight out from the bulkhead. You may need to wiggle it slightly to detach it completely. Ensure you pull on the connector itself and not the wires to avoid any damage.

Step 5: Set the Wiring Harness Aside

Once the wiring harness is disconnected, set it aside in a safe place, ensuring it doesn't get tangled or damaged. You will reconnect it to the new fuel pump later.

Remember to exercise extreme caution throughout this process, especially when working near the fuel tank and fuel lines. Ensure you don't smoke or create any sparks that could ignite flammable gases. Always refer to a qualified repair manual or seek professional assistance if you're unsure about any steps or procedures.

Replacing the fuel pump

Step 1: Safety First

Before starting, it is important to take safety precautions as you will be working with flammable gas fumes. Do not smoke or create any sparks while the bulkhead is open. Block the front wheels and elevate the rear of the car, supporting it safely on stands.

Step 2: Accessing the Fuel Pump

Open the trunk and lift the carpet. Locate the 6-inch round plate with three screws. Remove the screws with a screwdriver and take off the plate. Disconnect the wiring harness connected to the bulkhead under the plate. Turn the bulkhead counterclockwise and remove it, pulling out the fuel pump with it.

Step 3: Removing the Old Fuel Pump

Loosen the jam nut securing the pump to the bulkhead with a wrench.

Step 4: Installing the New Fuel Pump

Place the new pump onto the bulkhead and secure it with the jam nut and wrench.

Step 5: Reassembling the Components

Place the bulkhead onto the tank and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Reconnect the wiring harness to the bulkhead and place the cover over it, securing it with the three screws and a screwdriver. Finally, place the carpet back over the cover.

Alternative Method: Dropping the Fuel Tank

If you cannot access the fuel pump through the trunk, you will need to drop the fuel tank. Remove the drain bolt from the tank and drain the remaining fuel into an approved container. Remove the cover from the fuel hoses on the side of the tank, labelling and disconnecting the hoses. Use a floor jack and a broad piece of wood to support the tank, then remove the nuts holding the tank straps and lower the jack to remove the tank. Install the new fuel pump and reverse these steps to reassemble the components and reinstall the tank.

Reattaching the fuel tank

To reattach the fuel tank of a 1995 Honda Accord wagon, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands and that the fuel tank is correctly positioned under the car. Place the tank on the jack and adjust its position as necessary to ensure it is evenly supported.

Next, install the tank straps and tighten the retaining nuts to 27 ft. lbs. (38 Nm).

Now, reconnect the hoses and wiring connectors. Tighten the threaded fuel line fitting to 26 ft. lbs. (37 Nm). Ensure all connections are secure and correctly attached.

Then, install the cover for the fuel lines.

Finally, reinstall the drain bolt in the tank with a new washer and tighten it to 36 ft. lbs. (50 Nm).

Once complete, you can lower the vehicle to the ground.

It is important to note that you should reuse the fuel drained from the tank unless it is heavily polluted with rust, water, or other contaminants. When starting the engine, it may crank longer than usual due to a lack of fuel in the lines, so be cautious and prepared for this.

Testing the new fuel pump

Prepare the Vehicle:

• Block the front wheels and elevate the rear of the car, supporting it safely on stands.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Relieve the fuel system pressure.
• Remove any remaining fuel from the tank by draining it into an approved fuel container.
• Disconnect the fuel hoses, label them, and slide the clamps back.
• Use a floor jack and a broad piece of wood to support the tank, and adjust the position as needed.

Testing the Fuel Pump:

• Check the Fuse and Relay: Start by checking the fuel pump fuse and relay. Replace any blown fuses and test or bypass the relay. A faulty relay or blown fuse could be preventing the pump from working.
• Test Fuel Pressure: Attach a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail or a test port on the fuel line. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position without starting the engine to prime the fuel pump. Ensure the pressure falls within the manufacturer's specified range (typically around 30-50 psi, but refer to your vehicle's manual). If the pressure is low or non-existent, it could indicate a pump issue. Listen for a humming or buzzing sound near the fuel tank with the ignition on; this indicates the fuel pump is running.
• Test Electrical Connections: Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the fuel pump's electrical connector. You should read around 12 volts when the ignition is on. Low or missing voltage could point to wiring, fuse, or relay issues.
• Inspect for Fuel Leaks: Visually inspect the fuel lines near the pump for any signs of leaks. Leaking fuel can cause a loss of pressure and poses a serious fire hazard. Replace any damaged components immediately.
• Use a Diagnostic Scanner: An OBD2 scanner can provide more detailed diagnostics. It can read error codes related to the fuel pump and fuel system, such as fuel rail pressure or fuel pump circuit malfunction. It also allows you to monitor live data from sensors, including fuel pressure and fuel trim.
• Key Indicators of a Healthy Fuel Pump: Aside from fuel pressure readings, look for stable pressure, consistent voltage, and a steady fuel flow. If the pressure keeps dropping, it might indicate a weak pump. Irregularities in fuel flow could mean the pump needs replacing.

Remember to follow safety precautions when working with fuel. Ensure the area is well-ventilated, preferably outdoors, to avoid inhaling fumes. Keep sparks, flames, or hot surfaces away from the fuel system to prevent fires. Wear protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses.

Frequently asked questions