Replacing The Fuel Pump Relay In A '98 Mitsubishi Mirage

If you're looking to replace the fuel pump relay in your 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage, you've come to the right place. This job can be a little tricky, but with the right tools and guidance, you can get it done. First, you'll need to locate the fuel pump relay. In some Mitsubishi models, it's located in the engine compartment, while in others, it's inside the car, near the gas pedal or center console. Once you've found it, you'll need to disconnect the negative battery cable and relieve the fuel system pressure. From there, you can remove the old relay and install the new one, making sure to connect it securely. Finally, you'll reconnect the negative battery cable and check for leaks before starting the car.

Locate the fuel pump relay

To locate the fuel pump relay in a 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage, follow these steps:

Firstly, you need to relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable. Next, remove the rear seat cushion and the service cover. Now, detach the fuel pump harness connector and start the car, allowing it to run until the engine stalls. Turn the key to the off position.

At this point, you should be able to access the fuel pump. It is located inside the fuel tank, as is the case with most cars. To remove the fuel tank, you may need to raise the car safely and remove the tank. Alternatively, some cars have a trap door under the rear seat or in the trunk that provides access to the fuel pump.

If you are looking for the fuel pump relay, it is located behind the center console, near the A/T control unit. To access it, you will need to remove the center console where the shifter is located.

> "There is a small panel near the gas pedal that is below the radio and covers part of the center bottom of the dash. It has one screw and one push point retainer. This panel becomes part of the center console where the shifter is located. Remove the screw and the push point, pull the bottom left corner of the panel towards the gas pedal and pull down on the panel at the same time. This will allow you to see behind the panel but won't remove it. By placing a small mirror in there, you can see where there are two wiring clips attached to something. This something is the fuel pump and injector relay."

Disconnect the negative battery cable

Disconnecting the negative battery cable is one of the first steps to take when replacing the fuel pump relay in a 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage. This is an important safety precaution as it helps prevent any electrical accidents or issues. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this:

First, locate the negative battery cable. It is usually black and should be connected to the negative terminal of the battery, which is often marked with a "-" symbol. The battery is typically located in the engine bay, under the bonnet of the car. Make sure you have the necessary tools, such as a wrench or socket set, to loosen and remove the cable.

Once you have located the negative battery cable, follow these steps:

• Loosen the cable connection: Use the appropriate tool to loosen the nut or bolt that secures the cable to the battery terminal. Turn it in a counter-clockwise direction to loosen it.
• Detach the cable: After the connection is loosened, carefully remove the cable from the battery terminal. You may need to wiggle it gently to detach it completely. Be cautious not to let the cable touch any metal parts of the car to avoid accidental electrical connections.
• Secure the cable: Once the cable is disconnected, make sure to secure it safely away from the battery and any metal components. You can use cable ties or tape to temporarily hold it in place, ensuring it does not accidentally come into contact with the battery terminal or any other metal parts.
• Verify disconnection: Double-check that the cable is indeed disconnected by attempting to turn on the car. If the cable has been properly disconnected, the car should not start.

Remember to exercise caution when working with car batteries as they contain strong acids and produce explosive gases. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and ensure the area is well-ventilated. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect the negative battery cable in your 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage, allowing you to proceed with the replacement of the fuel pump relay.

Remove the access cover

To remove the access cover of your 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage, you will first need to relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable. Next, partially drain the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container.

Now, to access the access cover, you will need to remove the rear seat cushion. Once the cushion is removed, you will see the service cover. Remove this cover, and then detach the fuel pump harness connector.

At this point, you can start the car and let it run until the engine stalls. Turn the key to the off position. Now, you can reconnect the negative battery cable and attach the fuel pump connector. Finally, install the access cover, and you're done!

Drain the fuel tank

To drain the fuel tank of your 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage, you will need to partially drain the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container. Here is a step-by-step guide:

First, relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank. To access it, remove the rear seat cushion and the service cover. Detach the fuel pump harness connector and start the car, letting it run until the engine stalls. Turn the key to the off position.

Now, place shop rags or towels around the fitting that is to be disconnected. Loosen the filter feed pipe flare nut on the bottom of the filter and separate the flare nut from the filter. If equipped, remove and discard the gaskets.

Remove the mounting bolts and take out the filter. If necessary, remove the filter bracket as well. You can now drain the fuel into your approved container.

Make sure to exercise extreme caution when handling flammable liquids and working with electrical systems. Always refer to your owner's manual for detailed instructions and safety guidelines.

Remove the electrical connector

To remove the electrical connector from the fuel pump of a 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage, first relieve the fuel system pressure and disconnect the negative battery cable. Next, remove the access cover located in the rear floor pan. Then, partially drain the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container. Now, you can remove the electrical connector from the fuel pump.

• Relieve the fuel system pressure to reduce the risk of fire and explosion during the work.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any accidental electrical shorts during the procedure.
• Locate and remove the access cover in the rear floor pan. This will provide access to the fuel pump and other components.
• Partially drain the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container. This is important for safety and to reduce the risk of spillage.
• Carefully remove the electrical connector from the fuel pump. It is important to do this gently and ensure that the connector is not damaged, as it is crucial for the fuel pump's operation.

Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary precautions when handling gasoline and electrical components. If you are unsure about any steps or procedures, it is recommended to consult a certified mechanic or seek professional assistance.

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