Replacing The Fuel Pump Relay In A 1999 Honda Accord

If you're looking to replace the fuel pump relay on your 1999 Honda Accord, you've come to the right place. This process can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and guidance, you'll be able to get it done. The fuel pump relay is located under the driver's side dash, next to the steering column. It's important to note that this relay is critical to the engine operation, so handle it with care. You'll need to remove the coin pocket/fuse panel cover assembly to access it. Once you've located the relay, you can disconnect the wires by pinching the tabs and wiggling it out. Be careful not to pull the wires too hard. Then, simply plug in the new relay, secure it with zip ties or electrical tape, and you're done!

Locating the fuel pump relay

The fuel pump relay in your 1999 Honda Accord is incorporated into the PGM-FI Main Relay. This Main Relay is located underneath the driver's side of the dashboard. It is positioned on the left side of the steering column, mounted on the side panels under the dash.

To access the fuel pump relay, you may need to remove or recline the front driver seat to create more space and raise the steering wheel for better access. Once you are comfortably positioned, you will need to disconnect the plug from the old relay by squeezing or prying the tab on the connector.

It is worth noting that the fuel pump relay is in an awkward location, and removing it can be challenging. One suggested method is to use a combination of extensions, adapters, and a swivel to reach the bolt that secures the relay in place. You can then drop the entire unit and reinstall the bolt while holding the new relay. Alternatively, some people suggest using long, thin flat-blade screwdrivers to gently pull the relay out of its plastic housing.

Additionally, the fuel pump cut-off relay is located behind the fuse/relay block, also under the left side of the dash. This information should provide you with a clear understanding of where to locate the fuel pump relay in your 1999 Honda Accord.

Removing the old relay

To remove the old fuel pump relay from your 1999 Honda Accord, you will first need to locate it. It is situated under the driver's side dash, next to the steering column.

Once you have located the fuel pump relay, you can begin the removal process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure safety.
• Remove the coin pocket/fuse panel cover assembly attached to the left bulkhead with a tanged bracket and a 6mm bolt. You may need to use a combination of extensions, adapters, and a swivel to access the bolt.
• With the bolt removed, carefully lower the entire unit down.
• Disconnect the electrical connector from the fuel pump relay. You may need to squeeze or pry the tabs on the connector to release it. Be gentle to avoid damaging the connector or the surrounding components.
• Some sources suggest that you do not need to bother trying to remove the bracket mount or the relay box itself. Instead, you can simply pinch and wiggle the tabs connecting the wires to the relay box, and it should come out. If necessary, use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry it out. Be cautious not to pull the wires themselves.
• With the old relay removed, you can now proceed to install the new fuel pump relay.

Note: Some people choose not to bolt the new relay back in. Instead, they hang it from a wiring harness or secure it with cable ties in a suitable location.

Purchasing a new relay

When purchasing a new relay for your 1999 Honda Accord, it is important to get an exact fit for your car. You can find the right relay by searching for your car make and model on auto parts websites.

For example, on the O'Reilly Auto Parts website, you can find a 40 Amp 7 Terminal Multi-Purpose Relay with a 12-volt voltage and a female connector shape that fits the 1999 Honda Accord. This product comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Another option is the Standard Ignition 20 Amp 7 Terminal Accessory Relay, also available at O'Reilly Auto Parts. This product has similar specifications to the previous one but with 20 amps and is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Additionally, AutoZone offers a range of Duralast Relays with limited lifetime warranties that may fit your 1999 Honda Accord. You can check their website or visit a store to find the right relay for your car.

When purchasing a new relay, it is essential to consider the terminal type, connector shape, voltage, amperage, and warranty offered by the manufacturer. Ensure that the product specifications match your car's requirements for a proper fit and functionality.

Installing the new relay

To install the new relay, you will need to first locate the old relay. It is located under the driver's side dash, next to the steering column.

The relay is connected to wires and a bracket. You will need to pinch the tabs connecting the wires to the relay and wiggle it out. Be careful not to pull the wires. You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry it out.

Once the old relay is removed, you can take the new relay and plug the wires and connector into it.

Finally, you will need to find a place to mount the new relay. It is not heavy, so you can simply use rubber bands or zip ties to secure it to a small nook in the dash.

Testing the new relay

Prepare the Necessary Tools:

• Protective equipment
• Ohmmeter or digital multimeter
• Vehicle service manual

Locate the Fuel Pump Relay:

The fuel pump relay in your 1999 Honda Accord is typically located under the driver's side dash, near the steering column. Refer to your vehicle service manual for a wiring diagram if you're unsure.

Check the Type of Relay:

Identify whether your new relay is diode-protected and determine the voltage rating, which is typically 5V or 12V. This information is crucial to ensure you don't damage the relay by applying incorrect voltage.

Set Up the Multimeter:

Set your multimeter to the Ohms setting (usually represented by the Omega symbol, Ω) to measure resistance. Set the dial to the 200Ω range for accurate results.

Test the Normally Closed (NC) Pins:

Connect the multimeter probes to the NC pins on the relay, which are typically labelled "85" and "86". Firmly connect the probes, preferably using alligator clips. The polarity of the leads does not matter in this test.

Check the Resistance Reading:

If the relay is functioning correctly, the multimeter should display a resistance reading between 50Ω and 200Ω, depending on the model. If the reading is outside this range or displays "O.L" (Open), it indicates a potential break in the circuit or a faulty coil, and the relay should be replaced.

Test the Normally Open (NO) Pins:

Now, we'll test the NO pins on the relay, which are typically labelled "30" and "87". Before energizing the relay, connect the multimeter probes to these pins. The circuit is expected to be open, so the multimeter should display "O.L." If you observe any resistance reading, it indicates a short within the relay, and it should be replaced.

Energize the Relay:

To energize the relay, connect the ends of jumper cables to the positive and negative posts of a 12-volt battery. Then, connect the other ends of the jumper cables to the NC pins on the relay. If your relay is diode-protected, ensure you connect the positive cable to pin "85" and the negative cable to pin "86".

Listen for the Clicking Sound:

When the relay is energized, you should hear a distinct clicking sound. If you don't hear this sound, it could indicate a faulty coil or a non-functioning relay.

Test the NO Pins When Energized:

Place the multimeter probes on the NO pins with firm contact and check the meter for a resistance value. When the relay is energized, the resistance between the NO pins should be very low, ideally between 0.2Ω and 0.5Ω. If the value is above this range or displays "O.L", it indicates that the relay is faulty and requires replacement.

By following these steps, you can thoroughly test the new fuel pump relay in your 1999 Honda Accord and ensure it is functioning correctly.

Frequently asked questions