Replacing The Fuel Pump Flow Control Module In A Chevy Captiva

If you're looking to replace the fuel pump flow control module in your Chevy Captiva, you're in the right place. This is a fairly straightforward fix, but locating the module can be tricky. In this particular model, the fuel pump flow control module sits on the top of the left-hand rear wheel arch, or more specifically, in the left rear corner inside the cargo area. To access it, you'll need to remove the left rear cargo area side panel. This involves prying it off with a screwdriver or similar tool, being careful not to damage the plastic fasteners. Once you've located the module, you can then proceed with the replacement.

Location of the fuel pump control module

The fuel pump control module on a Chevy Captiva can be found sitting on top of the left-hand rear wheel arch. To access it, you will need to remove the rear seats, then lift the carpet. It is covered by a large black cap, which can be pried off using a screwdriver.

One user on the Chevrolet Owners Club forum reported that it took them 5 weeks to find the module, which was located underneath the rear interior side panel.

Removing the rear seats

To replace the fuel pump flow control module in a Chevy Captiva, you will first need to remove the rear seats. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

• Gather the necessary tools: You will need a set of tools to remove the rear seats, including a screwdriver, a socket wrench, and a pry bar or panel removal tool.
• Remove the rear seat cushions: Start by removing the rear seat cushions. They are usually held in place by a combination of bolts and hooks. Use your screwdriver to unscrew any bolts and then lift the cushions up and out of the hooks. Set the cushions aside in a safe place.
• Detach the electrical connectors: Before removing the rear seatbacks, you will need to detach any electrical connectors that may be present. This includes connections for features like seat heaters or power outlets. Carefully disconnect the wiring harnesses and set them aside, ensuring they are protected and won't be accidentally damaged.
• Remove the rear seatbacks: The rear seatbacks are typically bolted to the vehicle body. Use your socket wrench to remove these bolts. There may be additional clips or fasteners holding the seatbacks in place, so use your pry bar or panel removal tool to carefully release them.
• Lift out the rear seat assembly: Once all the bolts and fasteners have been removed, carefully lift out the entire rear seat assembly. This may require some force, as the seats are often fitted tightly into place.
• Set the rear seats aside: Place the rear seats in a safe area, away from the immediate workspace, to provide more room for the next steps.

With the rear seats removed, you will now have access to the fuel pump flow control module. You can proceed to the next steps, which may include removing additional components or panels to reach the module, depending on your specific Chevy Captiva model. Remember to refer to your vehicle's service manual or seek guidance from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Removing the spare tire

To remove the spare tire from a Chevrolet Captiva, follow these steps:

First, open the rear compartment floor stowage compartment cover. This will grant you access to the spare tire. Push the levers on the load floor, then lift it and hang the hook on the tailgate opening. Now, remove the tire protector foam.

Next, you need to remove the wheel retainer bolt that holds the spare tire in place. Do this by turning the bolt counterclockwise. Once the bolt is removed, carefully lift and remove the compact spare tire. The tools required for the next steps can be found between the compact spare tire and the liftgate.

Remove the wing-bolt from the jack, then remove the jack and the tool bag. If your vehicle has one, remove the straps holding the bag containing the wheel wrench and extension jack handle. Now, take out the wheel wrench and extension jack handle.

At this point, you should conduct a safety check before proceeding further. This is important to ensure your safety and the stability of the vehicle.

Now, you are ready to begin removing the flat tire and installing the spare tire. Use the wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts, but do not remove them yet. Position the lift head of the jack at the nearest jack location to the flat tire. Ensure that the jack lift head is touching the jacking flange under the body of the vehicle. It is crucial not to place the jack under a body panel. The lower body panel has an arrow to help locate the correct jacking position.

Getting under the vehicle while it is lifted on a jack is extremely dangerous. Do not get under the vehicle when it is supported only by a jack, as it could cause serious injury or even death if the vehicle slips off the jack. Always ensure that the jack is properly positioned and secured before raising the vehicle.

Now, you can raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle clockwise. Raise it enough so that there is sufficient clearance to remove the flat tire. Once raised securely, proceed to remove all the wheel nuts. Then, carefully remove the flat tire.

Before installing the spare tire, it is important to remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces, and the spare wheel itself. Rust or dirt on these surfaces can cause wheel nuts to loosen over time, leading to potential accidents. Use a cloth or paper towel for emergency cleaning, but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later for a thorough cleaning.

Now, you can place the compact spare tire onto the wheel-mounting surface. Reinstall the wheel nuts and tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held firmly against the hub. Do not use oil or grease on the bolts or nuts, as this can cause the nuts to loosen, leading to a potential wheel detachment during driving.

Finally, lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as specified in the vehicle's owner's manual. Ensure that all the wheel nuts are properly tightened before lowering the jack completely and removing it from under the vehicle.

Store the flat tire, jack, and tools securely in their designated locations.

Disconnecting the electrical connector

Firstly, locate the fuel pump control module. In the Chevy Captiva, it is situated in the left rear corner, inside the cargo area. Specifically, it is found on the top of the left-hand rear wheel arch. To access it, you will need to remove the left rear cargo area side panel. This will expose the module, which is bolted to the floor and has a 16-pin connector attached to it.

Now, for the disconnection process. Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools, such as a plastic pry tool, and wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection. Start by carefully prying or pulling to release the plastic fasteners that secure the side panel. You may need to "hunt" along the edge of the panel to find the best spot to start. Once you have found a suitable spot, use your tool or fingers to gently pry and release the fasteners. Be cautious not to apply excessive force, as the plastic can be delicate.

With the panel removed, you should now have access to the fuel pump control module and its electrical connector. The connector is usually attached to the module with a clip or lock mechanism. To disconnect it, locate the release tab or lever, which is typically located near the connector. Gently depress or slide the tab to release the connector, and then carefully pull it away from the module. Ensure you do not force it, as this may damage the connector or the module.

Once the electrical connector is disconnected, set it aside safely, ensuring it does not come into contact with any fluids or debris. You may also want to label or mark the connector and its corresponding wires to facilitate the reconnection process later on.

By following these steps, you should now have successfully disconnected the electrical connector from the fuel pump flow control module in your Chevy Captiva. Remember to work carefully and methodically, taking your time to avoid any damage to the vehicle's components.

Installing the new module

To install the new fuel pump flow control module for your Chevy Captiva, follow these steps:

Begin by opening the rear compartment floor stowage compartment cover. You may need to remove the rear seats to access this area. Then, carefully remove the spare tire spacer and the rear compartment floor stowage compartment itself.

Next, locate the fuel pump flow control module. On a Captiva, it should be sitting on top of the left-hand rear wheel arch, or in the left rear corner inside the cargo area. To access it, you may need to remove the left rear cargo area side panel. This is done by finding a starting point to slip your fingers behind the panel and pulling to release the plastic fasteners. Using a plastic pry tool can help with this process.

Once you have located and accessed the old module, you can install the new one in its place. Ensure that you have the correct part number for your Captiva's specific model and year.

Finally, depending on the year of your Captiva, you may need to program the new module. Refer to your Chevy Captiva manual for specific instructions on programming the fuel pump flow control module.

Frequently asked questions