1997 Pontiac Bonneville Fuel Pump Relay Location: Your Complete Guide to Finding and Replacing It

The bottom line: The fuel pump relay on a 1997 Pontiac Bonneville is located in the underhood fuse block, which is mounted on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the battery and the power distribution center. This small, rectangular relay controls the electrical power flow to the fuel pump, and if it fails, your car will not start or will stall unexpectedly. Replacing it is a quick, low-cost repair that you can do yourself in about 15 minutes with basic tools.

If your 1997 Pontiac Bonneville is having trouble starting, stalling out, or showing a check engine light, the fuel pump relay is one of the first things to check. This guide will walk you through exactly where to find it, how to test it, and how to replace it. We'll also cover common symptoms of a bad relay and what to do if the relay itself is not the problem.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay in Your 1997 Pontiac Bonneville

The fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that controls the power supply to the fuel pump. When you turn the ignition key to the "On" position, the relay activates and sends 12 volts of power to the fuel pump. The pump then pressurizes the fuel system so the engine can run. When you turn off the ignition, the relay deactivates, cutting power to the pump.

In a 1997 Pontiac Bonneville, this relay is part of the car's electrical system and is located in a dedicated fuse and relay box. The relay is typically a small, black or gray plastic box with four or five prongs on the bottom. It snaps into a socket in the fuse block.

Exact Location of the Fuel Pump Relay

The 1997 Pontiac Bonneville fuel pump relay is located in the underhood fuse block, also called the integrated power module or engine compartment fuse box. Here is the step-by-step process to find it:

  1. Open the hood of your Bonneville and secure it with the prop rod.
  2. Look on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the battery. You will see a black plastic box with a cover. This is the underhood fuse block.
  3. The fuse block cover has a diagram printed on it. The diagram shows the location of each fuse and relay. On the diagram, the fuel pump relay is labeled as "FUEL PUMP" or sometimes "FP" or "FUEL RELAY."
  4. If you cannot find the label on the cover, look for a rectangular relay that is about 1 inch wide and 1.5 inches long. It is typically located near the rear of the fuse block, closest to the firewall.
  5. On some 1997 Bonneville models, the fuel pump relay is located in the second row from the front, third slot from the left. But the exact position can vary slightly depending on the trim level (base, SE, SSE, SSEi). Always check the cover diagram for the most accurate information.

Important: The fuel pump relay is not located inside the car, behind the glove box, or under the dashboard. It is only in the engine compartment fuse block. Do not confuse it with the fuel pump fuse, which is also in the same fuse block but is a different component.

How to Identify the Fuel Pump Relay

Once you have the fuse block cover off, you will see several relays. The fuel pump relay is usually the same size and shape as other relays, such as the starter relay or the cooling fan relay. Here is how to tell which one is the fuel pump relay:

  • Look for a label on the fuse block itself. Some models have a small diagram printed directly on the plastic.
  • Check the relay's color. While not a guaranteed method, many fuel pump relays are black or dark gray, while other relays might be blue or green.
  • Use a test light or multimeter to verify which relay activates when you turn the ignition to "On." This is a more advanced method but is very reliable.
  • If you are still unsure, consult your owner's manual or a repair manual specific to the 1997 Pontiac Bonneville.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

A failing fuel pump relay can cause a range of problems. Here are the most common symptoms:

1. Engine Cranks But Does Not Start
This is the classic symptom. When you turn the key, the starter motor turns the engine over, but the engine never fires up. The fuel pump is not getting power, so no fuel is delivered to the injectors. The relay is a common culprit because it is a wear item that can fail over time.

2. Engine Starts Then Dies
Sometimes the relay will work intermittently. The car might start just fine, but after a few seconds or minutes, the engine cuts out. This happens because the relay loses connection, causing the fuel pump to stop working. The engine then stalls because it runs out of fuel.

3. No Fuel Pump Prime Sound
When you turn the ignition key to the "On" position (before starting), you should hear a faint whirring sound from the rear of the car. This is the fuel pump pressurizing the system. If you do not hear this sound, the fuel pump relay is a likely suspect. Make sure to listen carefully, as the sound can be quiet.

4. Intermittent Stalling While Driving
A bad relay can cause the fuel pump to lose power while you are driving. The engine will suddenly lose power and the car will stall. This is dangerous, especially if you are on the highway. If you experience this, pull over safely and call for help.

5. Check Engine Light Illuminates
The engine control module monitors the fuel pump circuit. If the relay fails, the module will set a diagnostic trouble code, such as P0230 (Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction) or P0231 (Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low). The check engine light will come on.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before you buy a new relay, you should test the old one. Here is a simple way to test it using a multimeter or a test light:

Step 1: Locate the fuel pump relay and remove it from the socket. It pulls straight up. Do not twist it; just pull firmly.

Step 2: Inspect the relay's prongs. They should be clean and not bent. If they are corroded, clean them with a small wire brush.

Step 3: Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms). Touch the probes to the relay's coil terminals. On a standard 4-prong relay, the coil terminals are usually pins 85 and 86. You should see a resistance reading between 70 and 100 ohms. If you see infinite resistance (open circuit), the relay coil is burned out and the relay is bad.

Step 4: To test the relay's switch function, you need to apply 12 volts to pins 85 and 86. You can use a 9-volt battery or a car battery. When you apply power, you should hear a click. Then, use the multimeter to check continuity between pins 30 and 87. When the relay is energized, these two pins should be connected (continuity). If they are not, the relay is bad.

Step 5: If you do not have a multimeter, you can swap the fuel pump relay with another identical relay in the fuse block, such as the horn relay or the starter relay. If the car starts with the swapped relay, then the original fuel pump relay is bad. Place the swapped relay back in its original spot after testing.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the fuel pump relay is one of the easiest repairs you can do. Here is the process:

  1. Make sure the ignition is off and the keys are out of the car.
  2. Open the hood and remove the fuse block cover.
  3. Locate the fuel pump relay using the diagram on the cover.
  4. Grasp the relay firmly and pull it straight up out of the socket. It may require a gentle wiggle.
  5. Take the new relay and align the prongs with the socket. The relay is keyed, so it will only fit one way.
  6. Push the new relay straight down into the socket until it snaps into place.
  7. Replace the fuse block cover.
  8. Turn the ignition to "On" and listen for the fuel pump prime sound. If you hear it, the relay is working.
  9. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Check for any warning lights.

What to Do If the Relay Is Not the Problem

If you replace the fuel pump relay and the car still does not start, the problem could be elsewhere. Here are other common causes for a no-start condition in a 1997 Pontiac Bonneville:

1. Blown Fuel Pump Fuse
The fuel pump fuse is also in the underhood fuse block. Check the fuse and replace it if it is blown. A blown fuse can indicate a short circuit in the fuel pump wiring, so if the new fuse blows again, you have a deeper issue.

2. Failed Fuel Pump
The fuel pump itself can fail, especially if the car has high mileage (over 100,000 miles). The pump is located inside the fuel tank. If the pump is dead, you will not hear the prime sound, even with a good relay. Replacing the fuel pump is a more involved job that requires dropping the fuel tank or removing the rear seat.

3. Faulty Fuel Pump Relay Wiring
The wiring between the relay and the fuel pump can corrode, break, or short out. Check the wires at the relay socket and at the fuel pump connector. Look for rust, damage, or loose connections.

4. Bad Engine Control Module
The ECM sends the signal to activate the relay. If the ECM is faulty, it will not tell the relay to turn on. This is rare but possible. A professional mechanic can diagnose this with a scan tool.

5. Security System Issues
The 1997 Pontiac Bonneville has a vehicle theft deterrent system. If the security system is activated, it can cut power to the fuel pump relay. Try turning the key to "On" and waiting 10 minutes for the security light to go out. If it does, the system may have a problem.

Choose the Right Replacement Part

When you need a new fuel pump relay, you can buy it from any auto parts store. The part number is typically a standard relay, such as a Bosch-style relay (part numbers like 0332019150 or similar). The cost is usually under $15. However, if you are also replacing the fuel pump itself, you want a high-quality part that will last.

We recommend the KEMSO brand for your fuel pump replacement needs. KEMSO Fuel Pumps are high-performance, OEM Replacement parts that meet or exceed the original factory specifications. They are designed to provide reliable fuel delivery for your 1997 Pontiac Bonneville. Each KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in your purchase. Whether you need a fuel pump for daily driving or for a performance build, KEMSO has you covered. Visit their website to find the perfect fuel pump for your Bonneville:

<URL> https://www.kemsoracing.com/ </URL>

Final Checks and Preventive Maintenance

Once you have replaced the fuel pump relay (and possibly the fuel pump), perform these final checks:

  • Start the engine and let it run for 10 minutes. Check for any leaks or unusual noises.
  • Test drive the car around the block. Make sure the engine runs smoothly and does not stall.
  • Check the check engine light. If it is on, have the codes read at a parts store or mechanic.
  • Keep a spare fuel pump relay in your glove box. It is a cheap part that can save you from being stranded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a bad fuel pump relay drain the battery?
A: No, a bad relay typically does not drain the battery. It either fails to close (no start) or fails to open (stays on, which can keep the pump running, but that is rare).

Q: How long does a fuel pump relay last?
A: Most relays last 10-15 years or 100,000 miles. Heat and vibration can shorten their lifespan. The 1997 Bonneville is now 29 years old, so the original relay is likely due for replacement.

Q: Is the fuel pump relay the same as the fuel pump fuse?
A: No. The relay is a switch that controls power. The fuse is a protective device that blows if there is too much current. Both are in the same fuse block.

Q: Can I drive with a bad fuel pump relay?
A: No, you cannot drive if the relay is bad because the fuel pump will not work. The engine will not start or will stall.

Q: What tools do I need to replace the fuel pump relay?
A: You only need your hands. No tools are required. Just pull the old relay out and push the new one in.

Summary

The 1997 Pontiac Bonneville fuel pump relay is located in the underhood fuse block on the driver's side of the engine compartment. It is a small, rectangular relay that controls power to the fuel pump. If your car cranks but does not start, stalls intermittently, or you do not hear the fuel pump prime, test or replace the relay first. It is an easy, low-cost repair that can save you a trip to the mechanic. If the relay is not the problem, check the fuel pump fuse, the fuel pump itself, or the wiring. For a reliable fuel pump replacement, consider the KEMSO brand, which offers high-performance, OEM Replacement parts with a lifetime warranty.

For more information and to find a fuel pump for your 1997 Pontiac Bonneville, visit:

<URL> https://www.kemsoracing.com/ </URL>

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