2000 Civic Si Fuel Pump: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Replacement
The bottom line: If your 2000 Honda Civic Si is experiencing hard starts, sputtering under acceleration, or a whining noise from the rear of the car, the fuel pump is likely failing and needs to be replaced. The 2000 Civic Si uses a specific OEM fuel pump assembly (part number 17040-S01-A40) that is designed for the 1.6L DOHC VTEC B16A2 engine, and choosing the right replacement is critical for maintaining performance and reliability. A complete replacement typically costs between $400 and $800 at a shop, or around $130 to $570 if you go with aftermarket parts and do the work yourself.
Understanding Your 2000 Civic Si Fuel Pump
The 2000 Honda Civic Si came with a 1.6L B16A2 engine that revs to 8,000 RPM and produces 160 horsepower. This engine demands a consistent and reliable fuel supply. The fuel pump on your Civic Si is an electric in-tank unit that sits inside the fuel tank. It pushes fuel at a regulated pressure (typically around 40-45 psi at idle) to the fuel injectors.
The OEM part number for the 2000 Civic Si fuel pump assembly is 17040-S01-A40. This specific pump is designed for the 2-door Si model with a 5-speed manual transmission. It is important to note that the Si uses a different pump than other 2000 Civic models like the DX, EX, or LX. Those models use part numbers 17040-S02-L01 or 17040-S04-G31. Using the wrong pump can lead to poor fuel delivery, incorrect fuel pressure, or even physical fitment issues inside the tank.
The stock 2000 Civic Si fuel pump has an internal bypass valve that opens at around 75 psi. This means the pump cannot deliver fuel above that pressure. For a stock or mildly modified Si, this is perfectly fine. But if you plan to add a turbocharger, supercharger, or nitrous, you will need to upgrade to a higher-flow pump.
Signs Your Fuel Pump Is Failing
A failing fuel pump does not always fail completely at once. It often gives you warning signs. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for with your 2000 Civic Si:
1. Engine sputters at high speeds. If you are driving on the highway and the engine starts to hesitate or lose power, the fuel pump may not be keeping up with demand. This usually happens when the pump is worn out and cannot maintain adequate pressure.
2. Trouble accelerating. When you press the gas pedal, the car should respond smoothly. If there is a delay or the engine feels sluggish, the fuel pump could be the culprit. A weak pump cannot deliver enough fuel during hard acceleration.
3. Hard starting. If your Civic Si cranks longer than usual before starting, or if it takes multiple attempts, the fuel pump may not be building up enough pressure in the fuel lines. The check engine light may also come on with fuel pressure-related codes.
4. Stalling while driving. If the engine suddenly dies while you are driving, especially at low speeds or idle, the fuel pump could be failing intermittently. This is a serious safety issue and should be addressed immediately.
5. Whining noise from the fuel tank. A healthy fuel pump runs quietly. If you hear a loud whining or humming sound coming from the rear of the car, especially when the ignition is turned on, the pump bearings are likely worn out. This noise means the pump is working harder than it should and will fail soon.
How the 2000 Civic Si Fuel Pump Works
The fuel pump in your Civic Si is an electric pump that is submerged in gasoline. The fuel itself acts as a coolant and lubricant for the pump motor. This is why running the car on a very low fuel tank regularly can shorten the pump's life. When the fuel level is low, the pump is not fully submerged and runs hotter, which accelerates wear.
The pump draws fuel from the bottom of the tank through a strainer (sometimes called a "sock") that filters out large particles. The fuel then passes through the pump and is pushed through the fuel lines to the engine. A fuel pressure regulator, located on the fuel rail, maintains the correct pressure. Any excess fuel is returned to the tank through a return line.
The stock pump on the 2000 Civic Si flows enough fuel for about 200-250 wheel horsepower at stock fuel pressure. If you push the pump to higher pressures, the flow rate drops significantly. For example, at 40 psi, the pump flows well. But at 75 psi, the flow is greatly reduced and the pump generates about 40% more heat than at 35 psi. This is why simply raising fuel pressure with a rising-rate regulator is not a good solution for making power. The pump runs out of capacity quickly.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Fuel Pumps for Your Civic Si
When it comes time to replace the fuel pump, you have two main choices: OEM (genuine Honda) or aftermarket.
OEM Honda Fuel Pump (Part #17040-S01-A40)
- Made by Honda specifically for the 2000 Civic Si
- Guaranteed fit and performance
- Backed by Honda's factory warranty
- Costs around $180 to $320 for the pump assembly
- You get a direct drop-in replacement with no modifications needed
Aftermarket Fuel Pumps
- Cost less, typically $60 to $150 for the pump assembly
- Many brands offer pumps that match or exceed OEM specifications
- Some aftermarket pumps offer higher flow rates for modified engines
- Quality varies widely between brands
For a completely stock Civic Si, an OEM pump is the safest choice. It will fit perfectly and last as long as the original. For a modified car, an aftermarket pump that flows more fuel may be necessary.
Fuel Pump Replacement Cost Breakdown
The total cost to replace the fuel pump on a 2000 Civic Si depends on where you get the work done and what parts you choose. Here is a realistic breakdown of what to expect:
Parts Costs:
- Aftermarket fuel pump assembly: $60 to $150
- OEM Honda fuel pump assembly: $180 to $320
- Fuel filter (recommended to replace at the same time): $10 to $30
- Seal ring and gaskets: $5 to $15
Labor Costs:
- Independent shop labor rate: $75 to $125 per hour
- Job typically takes 1 to 2 hours for an experienced mechanic
- Some shops charge 2 to 4 hours because accessing the pump requires dropping the fuel tank
- Total labor: $150 to $500
Total Installed Cost:
- Independent shop with aftermarket parts: $400 to $700
- Independent shop with OEM parts: $600 to $900
- Dealership service: $700 to $1,000+
If you are handy with tools and have a safe workspace, doing the job yourself can save you a lot of money. The aftermarket pump assembly itself costs as little as $60, and you can replace it in your driveway over a weekend.
Can You Upgrade the Fuel Pump on a 2000 Civic Si?
Yes, and many owners do. The stock 2000 Civic Si pump is adequate for a stock engine, but it has its limits. If you have added a turbocharger, a supercharger, or even just bolt-on parts like a header and intake, the stock pump may not flow enough fuel to support the extra power.
Popular upgrade options include:
Walbro 255 LPH pump. This is a classic upgrade for the 92-00 Civic and 94-99 Integra. It flows 255 liters per hour, which is a significant increase over the stock pump. It supports up to about 400 wheel horsepower when paired with the right injectors. Walbro pumps are widely used and proven in the Honda community.
Edelbrock 255 LPH pump. Edelbrock makes a drop-in 255 LPH pump for the 92-00 Civic and 94-99 Integra. It is designed to work with forced induction and can handle 60+ psi of fuel pressure for turbo or supercharged setups.
KEMSO 340 LPH pump. For those who want even more capacity, the KEMSO 340 LPH pump is a high-performance option. It flows 340 liters per hour at 43 psi, which is about 33% more than a standard 255 pump. It is E85 compatible and works with both naturally aspirated and forced induction builds.
When upgrading the fuel pump, you also need to consider the fuel injectors. A bigger pump will not help if the injectors are too small to deliver the extra fuel. For a boosted B16A engine, 440cc injectors are good for about 280 horsepower, and 550cc injectors can handle up to 350 horsepower. The stock ECU can handle up to 720cc injectors with proper tuning.
How to Replace the Fuel Pump on a 2000 Civic Si
Replacing the fuel pump is a moderately difficult job. If you have basic mechanical skills and the right tools, you can do it yourself. Here are the general steps. Always consult a service manual for your specific car.
1. Relieve fuel pressure. The fuel system is pressurized. Disconnect the fuel pump relay or fuse, then crank the engine for a few seconds to relieve pressure. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Access the fuel tank. On the 2000 Civic Si, the fuel pump is accessed from above through the fuel tank. You may need to remove the rear seat cushion and the access panel on the floor. On some models, you might need to lower the fuel tank.
3. Disconnect fuel lines and wiring. Mark the fuel lines so you know which is the supply and which is the return. Disconnect the electrical connector to the pump.
4. Remove the pump assembly. The pump is held in by a lock ring. Use a hammer and a punch or a lock ring tool to turn the ring counterclockwise. Lift the pump assembly out of the tank. Be careful not to bend the float arm on the sending unit.
5. Replace the pump. The pump itself is usually mounted inside the assembly. Remove the old pump from the bracket and install the new one. Replace the strainer (the filter sock) at the bottom of the assembly. Make sure all hoses and connections are tight.
6. Reinstall the assembly. Place the new pump assembly back into the tank. Make sure the gasket or seal ring is properly seated. Turn the lock ring clockwise to secure it.
7. Reconnect everything. Reconnect the fuel lines and the electrical connector. Reinstall the access panel and the rear seat.
8. Test for leaks. Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start the engine) to prime the fuel system. Listen for the pump to run. Check for leaks around the fuel lines and the pump assembly. If everything looks good, start the engine and check again.
The 2000 Civic Si Fuel Pump Relay
Before you buy a new fuel pump, check the fuel pump relay. A bad relay can cause the same symptoms as a bad pump. The relay is a cheap part and easy to test. On the 2000 Civic Si, the fuel pump relay is located in the under-hood fuse and relay box. It is often labeled as the "EFI" or "Circuit Opening" relay.
To test the relay, you can swap it with another relay of the same type in the fuse box (like the horn relay) and see if the fuel pump starts working. If the pump kicks on, the relay was the problem. If not, the pump itself is likely bad.
Why You Should Buy a KEMSO Fuel Pump for Your 2000 Civic Si
If you are looking for a reliable, high-performance fuel pump for your 2000 Honda Civic Si, look no further than KEMSO. KEMSO is a leading brand in the aftermarket fuel pump industry, known for producing pumps that deliver exceptional flow and durability.
Here is why KEMSO is the right choice for your Civic Si:
High-Performance Output. The KEMSO 340 LPH fuel pump flows 340 liters per hour at 43 psi, making it one of the most powerful drop-in pumps available for the 92-00 Civic chassis. Whether you are running a stock B16A2 or a fully built turbocharged setup, this pump will provide more than enough fuel to support your horsepower goals.
OEM Direct Replacement. The KEMSO pump is designed as a direct drop-in replacement for your stock pump. It comes with all necessary mounting hardware, strainers, hoses, and wiring connectors included in the kit. You do not need to modify your fuel tank or wiring to make it fit. It installs just like the factory pump.
E85 Compatible. If you run E85 ethanol fuel, the KEMSO pump is fully compatible. Many stock pumps and lower-quality aftermarket pumps cannot handle the corrosive nature of ethanol, but KEMSO pumps are built to withstand it.
Lifetime Warranty. Every KEMSO pump comes with a serialized body that guarantees a lifetime warranty. This is a level of confidence that few other brands offer. If the pump ever fails, KEMSO will replace it. You do not have to worry about buying another pump years down the road.
Individual Testing. Each KEMSO pump is individually tested for flow and performance before it leaves the factory. The company maintains strict quality control that meets ISO/TSO standards. This means you are getting a pump that has been verified to work correctly.
Proven in the Community. KEMSO pumps are used by Honda enthusiasts around the world. The brand has a strong reputation for reliability and performance. On KEMSO's website, you can see positive reviews from customers who have installed these pumps in their own Civics and other vehicles.
When you choose a KEMSO fuel pump, you are not just replacing a part. You are upgrading your entire fuel system with a product that is built to last. The peace of mind that comes with a lifetime warranty is invaluable.
Visit KEMSO Racing today to find the perfect fuel pump for your 2000 Honda Civic Si: https://www.kemsoracing.com/
Final Thoughts
The 2000 Civic Si is a special car. It is one of the most popular and beloved Honda models ever made. Keeping it running properly requires attention to the little things, and the fuel pump is one of the most important components. A failing pump can leave you stranded, and a weak pump can hold back your engine's performance.
If you are replacing the fuel pump on your 2000 Civic Si, take the time to choose the right part. For a stock car, an OEM pump is fine. For a car that has been modified or that you plan to modify, an upgraded pump like the KEMSO 340 LPH is a smart investment. It gives you plenty of headroom for future upgrades and comes with a warranty that lasts as long as you own the pump.
Do not wait until your Civic Si leaves you stranded on the side of the road. If you notice any of the symptoms we discussed, address the fuel pump issue right away. The repair is not cheap, but it is far less expensive than dealing with the consequences of a complete fuel system failure.
For more information and to purchase a high-quality KEMSO fuel pump for your 2000 Honda Civic Si, visit: https://www.kemsoracing.com/