07 Chrysler 300 Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide for DIY Owners
If you own a 2007 Chrysler 300 and your engine cranks but won't start, the fuel pump relay is one of the first things you should check. The fuel pump relay for a 2007 Chrysler 300 is located in the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which is the main fuse box under the hood on the driver's side, near the battery. The relay is labeled as "Fuel Pump Relay" inside the TIPM cover, and it is a standard 30-amp relay that controls power to the fuel pump. This article will walk you through exactly where to find it, how to test it, and what to do if it needs replacement.
Understanding the 2007 Chrysler 300 Fuel Pump Relay
The fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that sends power to the fuel pump when you turn the ignition key. When the relay fails, the fuel pump does not receive power, and the engine will not start. The 2007 Chrysler 300 uses a complex electrical system known as the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module). This module contains all the main fuses and relays for the vehicle, including the fuel pump relay. Unlike older cars where relays are easy to spot and swap, the TIPM is a sealed unit, which means you cannot simply replace the relay by itself. You must replace the entire TIPM if the fuel pump relay is faulty. However, before jumping to that expensive solution, you should confirm that the relay is indeed the problem.
Step-by-Step: How to Locate the Fuel Pump Relay
Step 1: Open the Hood
Park your 2007 Chrysler 300 on a level surface, turn off the engine, and open the hood. Make sure the engine is cool to avoid burns.
Step 2: Find the TIPM
Look on the driver's side of the engine bay, near the battery. You will see a large black plastic box with a cover. This is the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). It is about 12 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 4 inches tall.
Step 3: Remove the TIPM Cover
Press the tabs on the sides of the TIPM cover and lift it off. Set the cover aside in a safe place. Inside, you will see a grid of fuses and relays. The cover usually has a diagram on the inside that shows the location of each component.
Step 4: Identify the Fuel Pump Relay
Look for the relay labeled "Fuel Pump Relay" on the diagram. On the 2007 Chrysler 300, this relay is typically located in the center of the TIPM, in a row of larger relays. It is a standard 30-amp relay, usually black or gray in color. If the diagram is worn or missing, you can check the owner's manual for the exact location.
Step 5: Inspect the Relay
Once you locate the relay, gently pull it straight up using a relay puller tool or a pair of needle-nose pliers. Be careful not to damage the plastic housing. Examine the relay for any signs of burning, melting, or corrosion. If the relay looks damaged, it is likely the cause of your problem.
How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay
Before replacing the TIPM, you should test the fuel pump relay to confirm it is faulty. Here is a simple test you can do at home:
Test 1: Listen for the Relay Click
Have an assistant turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (do not start the engine). While they do this, place your hand on the fuel pump relay. You should feel a faint click and hear a soft sound. If you hear nothing, the relay may not be receiving power or may be stuck.
Test 2: Use a Multimeter
Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms). Remove the relay from the TIPM. Look at the relay pins: there are usually 4 or 5 pins. Check the resistance between the coil pins (usually pins 85 and 86). A good relay should show a resistance between 50 and 200 ohms. If the resistance is infinite (open circuit), the relay coil is broken.
Test 3: Swap with a Known Good Relay
If you have another relay of the same type in the TIPM (such as the horn relay or starter relay), you can swap them. If the fuel pump starts working after the swap, the original relay is bad. Remember to put the swapped relay back in its original position.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay
If your 2007 Chrysler 300 has a faulty fuel pump relay, you will likely notice one or more of these symptoms:
1. Engine Cranks but Does Not Start
This is the most common symptom. The engine turns over when you turn the key, but it never fires up because the fuel pump is not getting power.
2. No Fuel Pump Prime Sound
When you turn the ignition to the "ON" position, you should hear a faint whining sound from the rear of the car for about 2 seconds. This is the fuel pump building pressure. If you hear nothing, the relay or pump is likely dead.
3. Engine Stalls While Driving
If the relay fails intermittently, the engine may suddenly lose power and stall while you are driving. This is dangerous and should be addressed immediately.
4. Check Engine Light
The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) will detect a loss of fuel pressure and trigger the check engine light. Common codes include P0087 (Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low) or P0230 (Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction).
What to Do If the Fuel Pump Relay Is Bad
If you have confirmed that the fuel pump relay is faulty, you have a few options:
Option 1: Replace the TIPM
The only official way to replace the fuel pump relay on a 2007 Chrysler 300 is to replace the entire TIPM. This is a sealed unit, and the relay is soldered onto the circuit board. A new TIPM from a dealer can cost between $400 and $800, plus labor. You can also buy a remanufactured TIPM for around $200 to $300. However, this is a complex job that requires removing the battery, disconnecting wiring harnesses, and reprogramming the module. Most owners should have a professional mechanic do this.
Option 2: Bypass the Relay Temporarily
In an emergency, you can bypass the relay by wiring a jumper wire between the battery positive terminal and the fuel pump power wire. This is only a temporary fix and should not be used for long-term driving. It can cause electrical damage or fire if not done correctly.
Option 3: Replace the Fuel Pump Instead
Sometimes a bad relay is actually a symptom of a failing fuel pump. A failing pump draws more current, which can damage the relay over time. If you replace the TIPM but the fuel pump is bad, the new relay will fail again. It is wise to test the fuel pump separately before spending money on a TIPM.
When to Consider a Fuel Pump Replacement
If your fuel pump is the root cause, you will need to replace it. The 2007 Chrysler 300 fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, which means the tank must be dropped or a access panel must be cut in the trunk floor. This is a labor-intensive job. Look for these signs that the pump itself is failing:
1. Whining Noise from the Fuel Tank
A loud whining or humming sound from the rear of the car when the engine is running indicates the pump is wearing out.
2. Hard Starting
If the engine cranks for a long time before starting, the pump may not be building enough pressure.
3. Loss of Power Under Load
If the car hesitates or loses power when accelerating uphill or on the highway, the fuel pump may not be delivering enough fuel.
4. Low Fuel Pressure
A mechanic can test the fuel pressure at the fuel rail. A healthy system should have 58 psi (pounds per square inch) with the key on. If the pressure is below 50 psi, the pump is likely bad.
Recommended Fuel Pump: KEMSO Brand
When it comes time to replace your fuel pump, you want a product that is reliable, easy to install, and backed by a strong warranty. That is why we recommend KEMSO Fuel Pumps. KEMSO specializes in high-performance fuel pumps that are designed as direct OEM replacements. This means they fit perfectly in your 2007 Chrysler 300 without any modifications.
Why Choose KEMSO?
- High Performance: KEMSO fuel pumps are built to deliver consistent fuel pressure and flow, even under demanding driving conditions. Whether you drive your Chrysler 300 daily or use it for long road trips, a KEMSO pump will keep the engine running smoothly.
- OEM Replacement: Every KEMSO fuel pump is manufactured to meet or exceed the original equipment specifications. This means the connectors, mounting points, and fuel pressure ratings are exactly the same as the factory pump. No cutting, splicing, or adapters are needed.
- Lifetime Warranty: KEMSO stands behind its products with a lifetime warranty. If your fuel pump ever fails due to a manufacturing defect, KEMSO will replace it free of charge. This gives you complete peace of mind.
How to Order a KEMSO Fuel Pump
You can browse the full selection of KEMSO fuel pumps at their official website: https://www.kemsoracing.com/. The website is easy to navigate. You can search for your specific vehicle model, or browse the "Fuel Pump" category. All products are listed with clear specifications, compatibility information, and customer reviews. Shipping is fast, and the customer support team is available to answer any questions.
Final Thoughts on the 2007 Chrysler 300 Fuel Pump Relay
The fuel pump relay on a 2007 Chrysler 300 is a critical component that is not easily replaced. It is located inside the TIPM under the hood, and if it fails, you must replace the entire TIPM. Before spending money on a new TIPM, always test the relay using the methods described in this guide. Also, consider testing the fuel pump itself, as a bad pump can cause the relay to fail. If you determine that the fuel pump needs replacement, a KEMSO fuel pump is an excellent choice for reliability, performance, and long-term value. For more information, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ and find the perfect fuel pump for your 2007 Chrysler 300.