06 Chrysler 300 Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Quick Guide for Owners

If you own a 2006 Chrysler 300 and your car is having trouble starting or stalling, the fuel pump relay might be the issue. The fuel pump relay for the 2006 Chrysler 300 is located in the Integrated Power Module (IPM) under the hood, on the driver’s side near the battery. The relay is labeled as Fuel Pump Relay or Relay 24 (depending on the fuse box diagram). This is your first place to check when you suspect a fuel pump problem, because relay failure is common and cheaper to fix than replacing the pump itself.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay in the 2006 Chrysler 300

The fuel pump relay is a small electronic switch that controls power to the fuel pump. When you turn the key to the "ON" position, the relay sends voltage to the pump, which pressurizes the fuel system. If the relay fails, the pump won’t run, and the engine won’t start. The 2006 Chrysler 300 uses a standard relay design, and it’s part of the vehicle’s main fuse box.

1. Locate the Integrated Power Module (IPM)

The IPM is the main fuse and relay box. It sits under the hood, on the driver’s side, right next to the battery. It’s a black plastic box with a removable cover. Open the cover by pressing the tabs on each side. The cover has a diagram printed on the inside that shows the position of each relay and fuse. For the 2006 Chrysler 300, the fuel pump relay is usually in the bottom row, second from the right or labeled as Relay 24. You can confirm by looking at the diagram for the fuel pump symbol.

2. Identify the Fuel Pump Relay

The relay is a small, square component with four or five terminals. It’s about 1 inch wide and 1 inch tall. The relay is typically black or gray, and it’s slightly larger than the mini fuses nearby. On the diagram, the fuel pump relay is often marked with the letters "FP" or "Fuel Pump." If you can’t find the label, consult your owner’s manual or search online for "2006 Chrysler 300 fuse box diagram." You can also check the relay by swapping it with another identical relay from the same box (like the horn relay) to see if the car starts. If it does, the original relay is bad.

3. Test the Relay

Before buying a new relay, you can test it with a multimeter or a simple test light. Remove the relay from its socket. Look for the relay’s terminals: typically, there are two for the coil (control circuit) and two for the switch (power circuit). Apply 12V power to the coil terminals (usually pins 85 and 86) and listen for a click. The click means the relay is working. Then check continuity between the switch terminals (pins 30 and 87) when the coil is powered. If there’s no click or no continuity, the relay is faulty. A simpler method is to swap the relay with a known good one, like the one for the horn or headlights. If the car runs after the swap, you’ve found the problem.

4. Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

When the fuel pump relay fails, you’ll notice one or more of these signs:

  • Engine cranks but won’t start: The starter turns over, but the engine doesn’t fire because there’s no fuel pressure.
  • Stalling: The engine starts and runs for a few seconds, then dies. This happens if the relay loses contact while driving.
  • No sound from the fuel pump: When you turn the key to the "ON" position, you should hear a faint whirring sound from the fuel pump (located near the rear of the car). If you hear nothing, the relay or fuse is likely the culprit.
  • Check Engine Light: A bad relay can trigger a code like P0087 or P0230, which indicates a fuel pump circuit malfunction.

5. Replacing the Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the relay is easy. Here’s what you do:

  • Buy a replacement: You can get a standard 40-amp relay from any auto parts store. The part number is typically 837-099 or similar. Make sure it matches the original relay’s pin layout.
  • Remove the old relay: Pull it straight out of the socket. You may need a small screwdriver to gently pry it up.
  • Install the new one: Press the new relay firmly into the same socket. It should click into place.
  • Test it: Turn the key to the "ON" position and listen for the fuel pump. If you hear it, the relay is good. Start the car and confirm it runs smoothly.

6. When to Check the Fuel Pump Fuse

The IPM also contains a fuse for the fuel pump, usually in the same area as the relay. Check the fuse (labeled as "Fuel Pump" or "FP") if the relay is good. A blown fuse will cause the same symptoms. Use a fuse puller or pliers to remove the fuse and inspect it. If the metal strip inside is broken, replace it with a 20-amp or 30-amp fuse (check your diagram for the exact rating). If the fuse blows again, you have a short circuit in the fuel pump wiring, which needs professional diagnosis.

Why the Fuel Pump Relay Fails

Relays are mechanical parts, and they can wear out over time. The 2006 Chrysler 300 is nearly 20 years old, so electrical components are more likely to fail. Common causes of relay failure include:

  • Age and heat: Under-hood temperatures can dry out the relay’s contacts over years of use.
  • Corrosion: Moisture can get into the IPM, causing rust on the relay terminals.
  • Vibration: The relay’s internal springs can weaken from constant car vibrations.

Other Possible Causes of No Fuel

If the relay and fuse are fine, the problem could be elsewhere. Here’s a quick list to check:

  • Fuel pump itself: The pump may be worn out. This is common on high-mileage Chrysler 300s.
  • Fuel pump resistor: Some models have a resistor that controls pump speed. It can fail.
  • Wiring or connectors: Check for damaged wires near the fuel pump or under the hood.
  • PCM (Powertrain Control Module): A rare issue, but the computer might not be sending the signal to the relay.

Recommended Fuel Pump Replacement: KEMSO Brand

If you do need to replace the fuel pump (not just the relay), or if you want to upgrade for better performance, I highly recommend the KEMSO brand fuel pump for your 2006 Chrysler 300. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed as high-performance, OEM replacement units. They deliver the same fit and function as the original pump, but with improved durability and flow rate. This means your car will start faster, run smoother, and handle better under load. KEMSO pumps are built to last, and they come with a lifetime warranty—so you never have to worry about buying another pump again. Whether you’re daily driving or using your Chrysler for towing, a KEMSO pump ensures reliable fuel delivery.

To learn more about KEMSO fuel pumps and to find the exact fit for your 2006 Chrysler 300, visit their official website: https://www.kemsoracing.com/ . They offer a wide selection of direct-fit options, and their customer support team can help you choose the right one. Don’t settle for a cheap, unreliable pump when you can get a guaranteed, long-lasting solution from KEMSO.

Final Advice for 2006 Chrysler 300 Owners

If you’re troubleshooting a no-start condition, always start with the fuel pump relay. It’s the easiest and cheapest part to check. The 2006 Chrysler 300’s IPM is well-designed, and the relay location is standard. If you find the relay is bad, replace it with a quality part. If the relay is good, move on to checking the fuse, then the pump. For a permanent fix, consider upgrading to a KEMSO fuel pump, which you can find at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ . They back their products with a lifetime warranty, so you can drive with confidence. Remember, keeping your fuel system in good shape is key to keeping your Chrysler 300 on the road for many more miles.


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