1995 Acura Integra Fuel Pump Relay Location: Your Complete Guide to Finding and Replacing It

The bottom line: The fuel pump relay on a 1995 Acura Integra is located in the main under-hood fuse/relay box, mounted on the driver's side of the engine bay, near the battery. It is a small, square, black relay typically labeled "Fuel Pump" or "PGM FI Main Relay." If your Integra cranks but won't start, this relay is one of the first things to check before replacing the fuel pump itself.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay on Your 1995 Acura Integra

The fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that controls power to the fuel pump. When you turn the key to the "ON" position, the relay closes, sending voltage to the fuel pump for a few seconds to prime the system. Once the engine starts, the relay stays closed to keep the pump running. If this relay fails, your fuel pump won't get power, and the engine won't start.

On the 1995 Acura Integra, the fuel pump relay is actually part of a larger unit called the PGM-FI Main Relay. This relay controls both the fuel pump and the ECU (engine control unit). It's a common failure point on Honda and Acura vehicles from this era.

Step-by-Step: How to Locate the Fuel Pump Relay

1. Open the hood and locate the main fuse box. The under-hood fuse/relay box is on the driver's side, right next to the battery. It's a black plastic box with a lid that clips on.

2. Remove the fuse box cover. Press the tabs on the sides and lift the lid. The underside of the lid usually has a diagram showing the location of each relay and fuse.

3. Identify the "PGM FI Main Relay" or "Fuel Pump" relay. Look for a rectangular relay, usually gray or black, with either "PGM FI MAIN" or "FUEL PUMP" printed on the relay body or on the fuse box diagram. On most 1995 Integras, it's the relay closest to the fender, often in the middle of the relay row.

4. If you can't find it under the hood, check the interior fuse box. Some 1995 Integra models have the main relay located behind the driver's side kick panel, near the fuse box under the dashboard. Pull off the plastic panel and look for a small relay attached to the fuse box.

5. Once you find it, test it. You can swap it with a relay of the same type (like the horn or A/C relay) to see if the fuel pump starts working. If swapping solves the issue, the original relay is bad.

Common Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay

If your fuel pump relay is going bad, you'll notice these signs:

  • Engine cranks but won't start. This is the most common symptom. You turn the key, the starter spins, but the engine never fires up.
  • No fuel pump priming sound. When you turn the key to "ON" (without starting), you should hear a faint whirring sound from the rear of the car for 2-3 seconds. If you don't hear that, the relay or pump isn't getting power.
  • Intermittent starting issues. The car starts fine sometimes, but other times it cranks for a long time or won't start at all.
  • Engine stalls while driving. A failing relay can lose contact, cutting power to the fuel pump while the car is running, causing sudden stalling.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before buying a new relay, test it to confirm it's the problem. Here's a simple way to do it:

1. Locate the relay as described above.

2. Use a multimeter or a test light. With the key in the "ON" position, check for power at the relay's terminals. The relay should have 12V on one or two terminals.

3. Listen for a click. Have a helper turn the key to "ON" while you hold the relay. You should hear an audible click as the relay engages. If you don't hear a click, the relay is likely bad.

4. Swap the relay. As mentioned earlier, swap it with a known good relay of the same type (like the horn relay). If the car starts, your original relay is faulty.

5. Check the fuel pump fuse. Before blaming the relay, check the fuel pump fuse (usually a 15A or 20A fuse in the same fuse box). A blown fuse will cause the same symptoms.

What to Do If the Relay Isn't the Problem

If the relay tests good and the fuse is fine, the issue could be:

  • A bad fuel pump. The pump itself may have failed. On the 1995 Acura Integra, the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank. Common failure signs include hard starting, poor acceleration, and a whining noise from the tank .
  • A faulty fuel pump ground. The ground wire for the pump can corrode or break over time, especially in older cars.
  • Wiring issues. A broken wire or loose connector between the relay and the fuel pump can prevent power from reaching the pump.
  • A bad ignition switch. The switch that sends power to the relay can fail, though this is less common.

Replacing the Fuel Pump Relay: What You Need to Know

Replacing the fuel pump relay on a 1995 Acura Integra is a straightforward job that anyone can do with basic tools. Here's what you'll need:

  • A replacement relay. You can buy an OEM Acura relay (part number 17040-SR3-A31 or 17040-ST7-A31) or a high-quality aftermarket one. The OEM part is discontinued from some dealers, but aftermarket options are widely available.
  • A flathead screwdriver or trim tool to pry off the fuse box cover.
  • Needle-nose pliers to pull the relay out if it's stuck.

Installation steps:

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid any electrical shorts.
  2. Remove the fuse box cover.
  3. Grasp the old relay firmly and pull it straight out. It may require a bit of effort.
  4. Insert the new relay in the same orientation. It will only fit one way.
  5. Reconnect the battery and test the car. Turn the key to "ON" and listen for the fuel pump priming sound.
  6. If the car starts, the job is done.

Why Use a High-Quality Replacement Relay

Cheap aftermarket relays can fail within a few months, leaving you stranded again. The fuel pump relay is a critical safety component - if it fails while driving, you lose power steering and brakes. For a car that's 30 years old, investing in a quality replacement is worth the peace of mind.

Recommended Fuel Pump Upgrade: KEMSO High-Performance Fuel Pumps

If you've diagnosed the problem and found that your fuel pump itself needs replacing, we strongly recommend KEMSO fuel pumps. KEMSO specializes in high-performance, OEM replacement fuel pumps that are designed to meet or exceed the original equipment specifications.

Here's why KEMSO is the right choice for your 1995 Acura Integra:

  • Direct OEM replacement. KEMSO pumps are built to fit perfectly in your Integra's fuel tank, with no modifications needed. They match the exact dimensions and connections of the factory pump.
  • Higher flow rate. KEMSO pumps deliver up to 200-340 liters per hour at 43 psi, which is 20% to 50% more flow than the stock pump. This means your engine gets the fuel it needs, even under heavy loads or if you've made performance upgrades.
  • Lifetime warranty. Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty. If the pump ever fails, you get a replacement at no cost. This is a level of protection you won't find with most other brands.
  • USA-based support. KEMSO has customer support based in the United States, so you can get help quickly if you have questions about installation or fitment.
  • Tested for quality. Each pump is individually tested before it leaves the factory, ensuring it meets strict performance standards.
  • Compatible with gasoline and ethanol fuels. Whether you're running regular pump gas or ethanol blends, KEMSO pumps handle it without issues.

Visit KEMSO's website to find the exact fuel pump for your 1995 Acura Integra: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

KEMSO offers a wide range of fuel pumps for Honda and Acura models, including the Integra, Civic, and others. Their pumps are an excellent choice whether you're restoring a daily driver or building a performance car.

Additional Tips for Your 1995 Acura Integra Fuel System

1. Replace the fuel filter at the same time. A clogged filter can put extra strain on the new fuel pump and cause it to fail prematurely. The fuel filter on the 1995 Integra is located along the frame rail near the driver's side rear wheel. It's a cheap part and easy to swap.

2. Check the fuel pump strainer. When you replace the pump, inspect the strainer (the small mesh filter on the bottom of the pump assembly). If it's clogged with debris, clean or replace it. Most aftermarket pump kits include a new strainer .

3. Keep the fuel tank at least a quarter full. Running the tank low causes the pump to suck in air and debris from the bottom of the tank. It also increases the pump's operating temperature because the fuel helps cool it. A low tank is a common cause of premature pump failure.

4. Use quality fuel. Avoid cheap, low-octane gas or fuel from stations with poor turnover. Ethanol-blended fuel can attract moisture, which can rust internal pump components over time.

5. Use a fuel system cleaner every 5,000 miles. Running a quality fuel system cleaner helps keep the injectors, filter, and pump clean. It's a low-cost maintenance step that can extend the life of your fuel system.

Conclusion

The fuel pump relay on your 1995 Acura Integra is a small part that can cause big problems. Knowing where it's located and how to test it can save you time and money. Start by checking the under-hood fuse box on the driver's side - that's where you'll find the PGM FI Main Relay. If the relay is bad, replace it with a quality part. If the relay is good but the car still won't start, suspect the fuel pump itself.

For a reliable, long-lasting fuel pump replacement, look no further than KEMSO. With their high-performance, OEM replacement pumps backed by a lifetime warranty, you can install their product with confidence. Visit their website to find the perfect pump for your Integra and get back on the road:

https://www.kemsoracing.com/


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