2010 Ford Escape - Fuel Pump Relay

What Do Fuel Pump Relays Control?

A fuel pump relay is an electronic component responsible for providing power to your vehicle's fuel pump to pressurize your fuel system. As soon as you turn your key to the Run position, your fuel pump relay receives a signal to begin sending power to your fuel pump to prepare the vehicle to be started. The fuel pump relay is usually controlled or activated by the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM), or may simply be connected to the ignition switch in older vehicles. Because the fuel pump relay provides power to the fuel pump, any problems with the relay can impact your fuel system's performance. A bad or failing fuel pump relay will usually produce noticeable symptoms, such as the engine stalling or not starting at all, or a fuel pump that fails to activate or only works intermittently. If your fuel pump isn't working properly, no sound will be produced from the pump when starting your vehicle or turning the key to the Run position. If no sound is coming from the fuel pump or near the fuel tank, inspect the pump and the relay for any signs of failure. If the fuel pump seems to be working intermittently, it may also be a good idea to check your vehicle's fuel pressure to determine if the pump is weak or if it's working at all. Testing the related fuses and relays can also help narrow down the problem, and you can learn more about how to test relays with our helpful article. At O'Reilly Auto Parts, we carry replacement fuel pump relays, fuses, fuel pumps, and more to help you complete your repair.