1999 Honda CRV Fuel Pump Relay Location: Quick Guide and Fix

If you own a 1999 Honda CRV and the engine cranks but won’t start, or stalls unexpectedly while driving, the fuel pump relay is likely the culprit. The relay is located inside the under-dash fuse box, positioned on the driver’s side, near the left kick panel. Specifically, it is the fifth relay from the left in the top row of the fuse box. This small, rectangular component controls power to the fuel pump, and when it fails, the pump stops working, starving the engine of fuel. Replacing it is a simple, cheap fix that can save you a tow truck bill. Below, I’ll walk you through the exact location, symptoms of a bad relay, troubleshooting steps, and the best replacement option.

What Is the Fuel Pump Relay and Why Does It Fail?

The fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that sends power from the battery to the fuel pump when the ignition is turned on. In the 1999 Honda CRV, it’s rated for 12 volts and handles about 20-30 amps. Over time, the relay’s internal contacts can wear out due to heat, vibration, or age. Common failure points include:

  • Corroded contacts: Moisture or dirt can cause the relay to stick open or closed.
  • Burnt coils: High current draw from a failing fuel pump can overload the relay.
  • Mechanical wear: The relay’s internal spring or armature may break after 20+ years of use.

You don’t need a mechanic to diagnose this. Most people can test the relay with a multimeter or swap it out in under 10 minutes.

1999 Honda CRV Fuel Pump Relay Location: Step-by-Step

The exact location is in the under-dash fuse box on the driver’s side. Here’s how to find it:

  1. Sit in the driver’s seat and look under the dashboard, just above the left footwell.
  2. Locate the fuse box cover: It’s a rectangular plastic panel with a small tab or clip. Gently pull it off.
  3. Identify the relay: The fuse box has two rows of relays. The top row has five relays. The fuel pump relay is the fifth relay from the left (closest to the firewall). It’s usually marked with a diagram on the inside of the cover, but on the 1999 CRV, it’s labeled “FUEL PUMP” or “FUEL.”
  4. Check the relay’s shape: It’s a standard 4-pin, square relay, about 1 inch wide and 1.5 inches tall. The color is typically black or gray, but aftermarket replacements may vary.

If you’re unsure, look at the fuse box diagram printed on the cover. The fuel pump relay is often near the “PGM-FI” (Programmed Fuel Injection) relay, but it’s separate. The PGM-FI relay controls the engine computer, while the fuel pump relay handles the pump directly.

Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay on a 1999 Honda CRV

A failing relay can mimic other fuel system problems. Here are the most common signs:

  • Engine cranks but won’t start: The starter turns over, but the engine never fires. This is the #1 symptom.
  • No fuel pump prime sound: When you turn the key to “ON” (not start), you should hear a faint whirring from the rear of the car for 2 seconds. If you don’t hear it, the relay may be dead.
  • Stalling while driving: The engine dies suddenly, especially when turning corners or going uphill. The relay may be working intermittently due to a loose connection.
  • Low fuel pressure: If the relay is weak, it might not supply full voltage, causing sluggish acceleration or misfiring.
  • Check Engine Light: The engine computer may detect a “no fuel pump voltage” error (code P0230 for fuel pump relay circuit).

Important: If the engine starts but runs poorly, the problem could be a clogged fuel filter or a dying fuel pump. Always test the relay first—it’s the cheapest part to replace.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay Yourself

Before buying a new relay, you can test it with a digital multimeter (or even a simple test light). Here’s how:

  1. Remove the relay: Pull it straight out of the fuse box. No tools needed.
  2. Check the relay’s pins: A standard relay has four pins—two for the coil (pins 85 and 86) and two for the switch (pins 87 and 30). The coil pins are usually the two smaller ones, but consult your multimeter’s manual.
  3. Test the coil resistance: Set your multimeter to ohms (Ω). Touch the probes to pins 85 and 86. A good relay should read between 50 and 120 ohms. If it reads infinity (open circuit), the coil is burnt out.
  4. Test the switch continuity: Set the multimeter to continuity (beep mode). Touch probes to pins 30 and 87. There should be no continuity (no beep) when the relay is at rest. Now, apply 12V to pins 85 and 86 (use a battery or jumper wires). You should hear a click, and the continuity between pins 30 and 87 should beep. If you don’t hear a click or get no continuity, the relay is bad.

Simpler test: Swap the suspect relay with an identical relay from the same fuse box (like the horn or headlight relay). If the engine starts, the fuel pump relay is the problem.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump Relay on a 1999 Honda CRV

Replacing the relay is straightforward:

  1. Buy a new relay: You can get a standard 4-pin 12V relay at any auto parts store (like a Bosch or Standard Motor Products relay). Make sure it’s rated for 30 amps.
  2. Remove the old relay: Pull it straight out of the fuse box.
  3. Install the new relay: Press it firmly into the same socket. You’ll feel it click into place.
  4. Test the car: Turn the key to “ON” and listen for the fuel pump prime sound. Then start the engine.

Cost: A new relay costs $5 to $15 at most auto parts stores. This is a fraction of the cost of a tow or a mechanic’s diagnostic fee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t replace the fuel pump without checking the relay first: A bad relay can mimic a dead pump. Replacing the pump (which costs $150-$400) is unnecessary if the relay is the issue.
  • Don’t use a fuse when a relay is needed: The fuel pump fuse is a separate component. The 1999 CRV has a 15-amp fuse for the fuel pump in the same fuse box (usually the second fuse from the top in the left column). If the fuse is blown, replace it first.
  • Don’t ignore the fuse box diagram: The relay may look identical to others, but the pinout can differ. Always match the relay’s pin configuration to the socket.

When to Replace the Fuel Pump Rather Than the Relay

If you replace the relay and the car still won’t start, the problem may be the fuel pump itself. On the 1999 Honda CRV, the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, under the rear seat. Common signs of a bad pump include:

  • No fuel pressure: You can test this with a fuel pressure gauge (should be 38-45 psi at idle).
  • Loud whining noise: A failing pump may make a high-pitched sound.
  • Burned fuse: If the new relay works but the fuse keeps blowing, the pump may be drawing too much current.

However, if you suspect the pump, I recommend replacing both the relay and the pump to avoid future breakdowns. The pump is a high-wear item after 20 years.

Recommended Fuel Pump for 1999 Honda CRV: KEMSO Fuel Pump

If you need to replace the fuel pump or want a reliable upgrade, consider KEMSO fuel pumps. KEMSO specializes in high-performance, OEM replacement fuel pumps that fit your 1999 Honda CRV perfectly. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

  • High Performance: KEMSO pumps deliver consistent fuel pressure, even under heavy load. They’re built with premium internal components to handle daily driving or off-road use.
  • OEM Replacement: They are designed to drop-in directly without modifications. The pump fits the stock fuel tank assembly, and connectors match the 1999 CRV’s wiring.
  • Lifetime Warranty: Every KEMSO pump comes with a lifetime warranty, which means you’re covered for as long as you own the vehicle. No questions asked.

KEMSO Fuel Pump Features for 1999 Honda CRV:

  • 12V DC motor, rated for 100-150 liters per hour.
  • Includes a new strainer and rubber grommet (often sold separately).
  • Direct replacement for OEM part number 17045-S5A-A00 or 17045-S5A-A01.

Where to buy: Visit KEMSO’s official website to browse their selection. They offer free shipping on orders over $50 and have a 30-day return policy.

Click here to order a KEMSO Fuel Pump for your 1999 Honda CRV

Final Thoughts on the 1999 Honda CRV Fuel Pump Relay

To summarize, the 1999 Honda CRV fuel pump relay is located in the under-dash fuse box, driver’s side, fifth relay from the left. If your car has starting issues, test the relay first with a multimeter or swap it with a known good relay. It’s a simple, cheap fix that can save you hours of frustration. If the relay is fine but the pump is failing, trust KEMSO for a reliable, long-lasting replacement. Their lifetime warranty gives you peace of mind on the road.

For more information, including product specifications and installation guides, visit the KEMSO website at https://www.kemsoracing.com/.


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