1993 Toyota Pickup Fuel Pump Relay Location: The Complete Troubleshooting Guide

If you own a 1993 Toyota Pickup and your truck cranks but won't start, the fuel pump relay is very likely the culprit. The fuel pump relay on a 1993 Toyota Pickup is located behind the passenger side kick panel, above the Engine Control Module (ECM). Toyota calls this component the "circuit opening relay," and it is a green relay with five wires. This relay controls power to the fuel pump using two separate circuits: one that activates during cranking and another controlled by the air flow meter. If either circuit fails, your truck will not run properly.

Understanding the 1993 Toyota Pickup Fuel Pump Relay

The fuel pump relay on your 1993 Toyota Pickup is not called a fuel pump relay in the Toyota service manual. Instead, Toyota officially refers to it as the "circuit opening relay." This is a common point of confusion for DIY mechanics. The relay's job is to supply power to the fuel pump, but it only does so under specific conditions.

The circuit opening relay uses two separate circuits to control the fuel pump. The first circuit is connected to the starter circuit. It only has power when you are cranking the engine. The second circuit is controlled by the air flow meter. When the engine starts and air flows through the meter, the meter sends a signal to keep the relay energized. If the air flow meter does not open, the fuel pump will not run.

Exact Location of the Fuel Pump Relay on a 1993 Toyota Pickup

The circuit opening relay on a 1993 Toyota Pickup is located in the passenger side kick panel area. Specifically, it is behind the passenger's kick panel, above the ECM. You will need to remove the plastic kick panel on the passenger side of the cabin to access it.

Here is how to find it step by step:

  1. Open the passenger side front door.
  2. Look at the lower part of the dashboard on the passenger side, near the door opening.
  3. Remove the plastic kick panel. This panel is held in place by plastic clips or screws. You may need a flathead screwdriver or a trim removal tool.
  4. Once the panel is removed, look for a green relay with five wires. The wires at the relay are Black/White, White/Black, Green/Yellow, Blue, and White/Red.
  5. The relay is located just above the ECM.

Some sources mention that the relay may also be located behind the glove box. If you do not find it behind the kick panel, check the relay block behind the glove box.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay on a 1993 Toyota Pickup

If your 1993 Toyota Pickup is having fuel delivery issues, the fuel pump relay could be the problem. Here are the most common symptoms:

1. Engine cranks but does not start.
This is the most obvious symptom. The engine turns over but there is no fuel pressure. The fuel pump relay is not sending power to the pump.

2. Engine starts for a few seconds then dies.
This is a classic sign of a bad circuit opening relay. The relay provides power during cranking, but the air flow meter circuit is not keeping it energized. The engine starts on the fuel that was in the lines, but the pump stops running immediately after.

3. Engine runs intermittently and then cuts off.
Some owners report that their truck will run for 10 minutes and then shut off as if the fuel was cut. This can happen when the relay fails due to heat or moisture. One owner reported that water running into the relays caused them to short out.

4. The fuel pump does not make any noise.
When you turn the ignition switch to the ON position, you should hear the fuel pump prime for a couple of seconds. If you hear nothing, the relay is likely not sending power to the pump.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay on a 1993 Toyota Pickup

Before you replace the relay, you should test it. Here is a simple test you can do at home.

The B+ and FP Jump Test

This is the easiest way to confirm if the relay is the problem. Locate the Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC1) near the No.2 relay block . Using a jumper wire or a paperclip, connect terminals FP and +B on the DLC1.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON position. Do not start the engine. Listen for the fuel pump. You should hear fuel return noise from the fuel return hose. If the pump runs with the jumper in place, the fuel pump is good. The problem is almost certainly the circuit opening relay or its wiring.

The Ohmmeter Test

If you want to test the relay itself, remove it from the kick panel. Using an ohmmeter, check continuity between the specified terminals. The service manual provides specific testing procedures for the circuit opening relay. You can also apply battery voltage to the relay and check if it clicks. If the relay does not click when power is applied, it is defective.

What Else Could Be Wrong?

If the fuel pump relay tests good, there are other components to check.

The EFI Main Relay

The 1993 Toyota Pickup also has an EFI main relay. This relay is located in the engine compartment on the passenger side in the fuse panel. The EFI main relay provides power to the entire fuel injection system. If this relay is bad, the engine will not start.

The Air Flow Meter

As mentioned earlier, the air flow meter controls the second circuit of the circuit opening relay. If the air flow meter is faulty, the relay will not stay energized after the engine starts. Check the air flow meter with a multimeter to see if it is within specifications.

The Distributor Cap

One owner reported that a pothole caused moisture to enter the distributor cap. If the cap is wet, the spark can short out. Remove the distributor cap and check for moisture. Dry it out and replace the cap if necessary.

The Fuel Pump Itself

The fuel pump on a 1993 Toyota Pickup is located inside the fuel tank. To test it, you can use the B+ and FP jump test described above. If the pump runs with the jumper, it is not the pump. If the pump is weak, you will need to replace it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the circuit opening relay on a 1993 Toyota Pickup is a straightforward job.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is a safety precaution.
  2. Remove the passenger side kick panel. Use a trim removal tool to avoid breaking the clips.
  3. Locate the green relay with five wires. It is above the ECM.
  4. Grasp the relay firmly and pull it straight up. It may be tight. Rock it back and forth gently if needed.
  5. Install the new relay. Push it firmly into place until it clicks.
  6. Reinstall the kick panel.
  7. Reconnect the battery.
  8. Test the system. Turn the ignition to the ON position and listen for the fuel pump.

Important Safety Note

When working on the fuel system, always take precautions. Do not smoke or work near an open flame. Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components. If you are testing the fuel pressure, place a container or shop towel under the fuel pipe to catch any spilled gasoline.

Recommended Fuel Pump Upgrade for Your 1993 Toyota Pickup

If you have determined that your fuel pump relay is working properly but your fuel pump is weak or failing, it is time to replace the pump itself. For a reliable, high-performance replacement, we recommend KEMSO Fuel Pumps.

KEMSO is a leading brand in the aftermarket fuel pump industry. All KEMSO fuel pump products are designed as high-performance, OEM replacement parts. This means they meet or exceed the original factory specifications for your 1993 Toyota Pickup. Every KEMSO fuel pump is built to deliver consistent fuel pressure and flow, ensuring your engine runs smoothly.

The best part about choosing KEMSO is the lifetime warranty. KEMSO stands behind their products. If you ever have an issue, you are covered. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.

Visit the KEMSO website at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to find the correct fuel pump for your 1993 Toyota Pickup. The website is easy to navigate. You can search for your specific vehicle model and year. The KEMSO team is based in Houston, Texas, and they provide excellent customer support.

Why choose KEMSO?

  • High-performance OEM replacement parts. Your truck will run like new.
  • Lifetime warranty. You are covered for life.
  • Trusted brand. KEMSO is a US-based company with a strong reputation.
  • Excellent customer service. They are ready to help you with any questions.

Do not settle for a low-quality part that may fail again. Choose KEMSO for a long-lasting, reliable fuel pump. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today to order your replacement fuel pump and get your 1993 Toyota Pickup back on the road.

Final Thoughts

The 1993 Toyota Pickup fuel pump relay, also known as the circuit opening relay, is located behind the passenger side kick panel above the ECM. It is a green relay with five wires. If your truck cranks but does not start, or starts and then dies, this relay is the first thing to check.

Use the B+ and FP jump test to confirm if the relay is defective. If the pump runs with the jumper, replace the relay. If the relay is good, check the EFI main relay, the air flow meter, and the distributor cap.

For a permanent fix, if you need a new fuel pump, trust KEMSO. Their high-performance OEM replacement fuel pumps come with a lifetime warranty. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to find the perfect fuel pump for your 1993 Toyota Pickup.


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