Eric F

When I try to start my 02 6 speed after it's been sitting for more than a few hours, the fuel pump doesn't turn on right when I turn the key on. The engine will turn over, but it won't start because the fuel pump isn't going. As soon as it's started, there is no hesitation at all. The fuel pump works fine once it starts going.

Sometimes it will turn on after the key has been turned on for a few seconds. Sometimes it takes up to 30 seconds. The fuel pump isn't louder than normal. I have to turn the radio off to hear it go on.

Is this the fuel pump going out, or is it a relay or something that is taking a while to kick on when it's cold or hasn't been powered in a while. Today it was 80 degrees outside and it still did the same thing, so the outside temperature doesn't seem to have anything to do with it.

Has anyone else experienced this?

MaximaInCT203

just go out, buy a new one, and replace that bish!!!!!!! If you are accurately describing your situation, your fuel pump is damn near gone bro....ur lucky to even be able to start the car actually! Goto the how-tos section for helpon replacing the fuel pump...its not hard at all though

Eric F

If the fuel pump was going out, it seems like there would be at least some hesitation while driving. They usually sound noisier than normal when they're on their way out too. Mine isn't any louder than a normal working fuel pump. It seems like it is more likely to be a relay than the pump itself. If I don't find anything else out, I'll replace it this weekend.

brusk

iTrader: (1)

test the voltage on the wire to find out when it's getting power and when the pump is kicking on. If it's not getting power immediately then follow it to the relay.

Eric F

Sorry for the noob question, but where is the DIY section on the board? Do I have to pull the gas tank to change the fuel pump? It sounds like it's coming from under the hood.

AceofSpds

iTrader: (4)

Search for Fuel filter change, there are allot of threads on that and the fuel filter and pump are together. They are in the fuel tank, but you can access it through under the rear seats.

5thgenmaxima

iTrader: (1)

10 char

Eric F

Ok, the other morning, it wouldn't start at all. The fuel pump isn't ever turning on anymore. How much voltage should the pump be getting? When I first turn on the key, it gets about 5 volts for a second and then goes down to 2 or 3 volts. With the engine cranking, it gets about 1 volt. I'm suspecting that the fuel pump is bad, because it isn't trying to turn at all.

Now, where is the best place to get a reasonably priced pump and fuel filter? The stealer wants around $300 for a new pump.

Eric F

The relay was bad. I swapped it with a headlight relay and it started right up. Now I need to go get a new relay.

5thgenmaxima

iTrader: (1)

yup.. FYI the pump should be getting source voltage. or about 12 for a second or two after key on engine off, around 11 during cranking and 13.5-14.2 while running