2001 Chevy Malibu Fuel Pump Relay Location: Quick Guide and Replacement Tips

If you own a 2001 Chevy Malibu and your car is cranking but not starting, or it stalls while driving, the fuel pump relay is often the first thing to check. The fuel pump relay for a 2001 Chevy Malibu is located in the under-hood fuse box on the driver's side, near the battery. It is marked as relay #18 or #39, depending on the specific fuse box layout, and it controls the power supply to the fuel pump. Replacing it costs less than $20 and can be done in minutes without any special tools. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about locating, testing, and replacing the fuel pump relay, as well as the fuel pump itself, to get your Malibu back on the road.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay in a 2001 Chevy Malibu

The fuel pump relay is a small electrical switch that controls the power to the fuel pump. When you turn the key to the "ON" position, the relay activates and sends power to the fuel pump, which pressurizes the fuel system. If the relay fails, the fuel pump won't receive power, and the engine will crank but not start. The relay is a common failure point on older vehicles, and it is much easier and cheaper to replace than the fuel pump itself.

In the 2001 Chevy Malibu, the fuel pump relay is located in the engine compartment fuse box. This box is positioned on the left side of the engine bay, near the battery. The exact location of the relay within the fuse box can vary slightly depending on the trim level and options, but it is typically marked on the fuse box cover. If you look at the cover, you will see a diagram that identifies each relay and fuse. The fuel pump relay is usually labeled as "FUEL PUMP" or "FP," and it is often relay #18 or #39 in the box .

To confirm the relay location, you can also check your owner's manual. The manual provides a detailed diagram of the fuse box and identifies all the relays. If you don't have the manual, you can find a diagram online or on the inside of the fuse box cover.

Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

Before you start digging into the relay, it helps to know the common signs of a failing fuel pump relay. If you notice any of these symptoms, the relay is a likely culprit:

  • Engine cranks but won't start: This is the most common symptom. If the relay fails completely, the fuel pump won't get power, and the engine will crank without firing up .
  • Intermittent stalling: The car may stall while driving, but then start again later. This happens when the relay works intermittently, cutting power to the fuel pump at random times .
  • No fuel pump sound: When you turn the key to the "ON" position, you should hear a humming sound from the rear of the car for about 2-3 seconds. This is the fuel pump priming. If you don't hear this sound, the relay or the pump may be bad .
  • Car starts but then dies immediately: This can also be a sign of a failing relay, though it could also be a fuel pump or fuel pressure issue.

If you experience these symptoms, the first step is to check the relay. It is a quick and inexpensive test.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Testing the fuel pump relay is a simple process that requires a multimeter or a test light. Here are the steps:

  1. Locate the fuse box: Open the hood and find the black fuse box on the driver's side, near the battery.
  2. Remove the relay: Pull out the relay marked for the fuel pump. It is a small, square component with four or five prongs.
  3. Test the relay with a multimeter: Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms). Place the probes on the relay's coil terminals (usually terminals 85 and 86). You should see a reading between 50 and 120 ohms. If the reading is infinite (open circuit), the relay is bad and needs to be replaced.
  4. Test the relay by applying power: If you have a 12V power source, you can apply power to the coil terminals and listen for a click. If the relay clicks, the coil is working. Then, test the continuity between the switch terminals (usually terminals 30 and 87). When the relay is energized, the circuit should be closed (continuity is present).
  5. Swap the relay: An even simpler test is to swap the fuel pump relay with another relay of the same type in the fuse box, like the horn relay or the A/C relay. If the car starts after the swap, the original relay was bad.

If the relay passes the tests, the issue may be elsewhere, such as a blown fuse, a bad fuel pump, or a wiring problem.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the fuel pump relay is one of the easiest repairs you can do on a 2001 Chevy Malibu. The relay is a standard part that costs between $10 and $20 at any auto parts store. Here is how to do it:

  1. Buy the correct relay: Take the old relay to an auto parts store to match the part number. Most auto parts stores also have a cross-reference guide.
  2. Remove the old relay: Simply pull it straight out of the fuse box. No tools are needed.
  3. Install the new relay: Push the new relay into the same slot. Make sure it is fully seated.
  4. Test the car: Turn the key to the "ON" position and listen for the fuel pump to prime. Then, start the car to confirm it runs properly.

If the car still doesn't start after replacing the relay, the problem may be with the fuel pump itself, the fuel pump fuse, or the wiring.

Fuel Pump Fuse Location

Sometimes the issue is not the relay but the fuel pump fuse. The fuel pump fuse is also located in the under-hood fuse box. It is usually a 15-amp or 20-amp fuse, and it is often labeled as "FUEL PUMP" or "FP." If the fuse is blown, the fuel pump will not receive power. You can check the fuse visually by pulling it out and looking at the metal strip inside. If the strip is broken, replace the fuse with one of the same amperage.

Verifying the Fuel Pump

If the relay and fuse are both good, but the car still won't start, you need to check the fuel pump itself. The fuel pump on a 2001 Chevy Malibu is located inside the fuel tank. To access it, you must drop the fuel tank from under the car . This is a more involved job, but it is doable for a moderately experienced DIYer.

To check if the fuel pump is working, you can do a simple test:

  1. Listen for the pump: Turn the key to the "ON" position. You should hear a humming sound from the rear of the car for 2-3 seconds. If you don't hear it, the pump may be dead.
  2. Check fuel pressure: Use a fuel pressure gauge to check the pressure at the fuel rail. The 2001 Chevy Malibu should have a fuel pressure of around 55-60 psi. If the pressure is low or zero, the pump is likely bad.
  3. Test for power at the pump: If you have a multimeter, you can access the fuel pump connector on top of the fuel tank. With the key in the "ON" position, check for 12 volts at the pump. If there is power but no sound, the pump is defective.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump on a 2001 Chevy Malibu

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2001 Chevy Malibu requires dropping the fuel tank. This is a bigger job, but it can save you hundreds of dollars in labor costs. Here is a simplified overview of the process:

  1. Depressurize the fuel system: With the car running, pull the fuel pump relay (relay #18) from the fuse box. The engine will stall after a few seconds, which relieves the fuel pressure .
  2. Disconnect the battery: Use an 8mm wrench to disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any sparks .
  3. Jack up the car: Safely jack up the rear of the car and support it with jack stands.
  4. Remove the fuel tank straps: The fuel tank is held in place by two metal straps. Use a 13mm socket to remove the bolts at the front of each strap .
  5. Disconnect the fuel lines and hoses: There are several hoses and electrical connectors attached to the top of the fuel tank. You will need to disconnect the fuel filler neck, the vent hose, and the two fuel lines. Use a screwdriver to release the clips on the fuel lines .
  6. Remove the fuel tank: Lower the tank carefully. You may need a helper or a floor jack to support the tank as you lower it.
  7. Access the fuel pump: Once the tank is out, you will see the fuel pump module on top of the tank. Use a hammer and chisel to loosen the locking ring that holds the pump in place .
  8. Remove the old pump: Lift the old pump module out of the tank. Be careful, as there may be residual fuel in the module.
  9. Install the new pump: Transfer any necessary components, such as the sending unit and the strainer, to the new pump. If you buy a complete assembly, it is a direct swap. Place the new module into the tank and secure the locking ring.
  10. Reinstall the tank: Lift the tank back into position, reconnect all hoses and electrical connectors, and reinstall the straps. Tighten the bolts securely.
  11. Test the system: Reconnect the battery, put the fuel pump relay back in, and turn the key to the "ON" position. Listen for the fuel pump to prime. Start the car and check for any fuel leaks.

Why You Should Choose KEMSO for Your Fuel Pump Replacement

When it comes to replacing your fuel pump, quality matters. A cheap, low-quality pump can fail within months, leaving you stranded. That is why we recommend KEMSO fuel pumps for your 2001 Chevy Malibu. KEMSO is a leading aftermarket brand that offers high-performance, OEM replacement fuel pumps designed to match the exact specifications of your vehicle.

KEMSO fuel pumps are built with high-quality materials that resist corrosion and wear. The motor is sealed to prevent fuel contamination, and the internal components are tested for durability. Each pump is designed to deliver the correct voltage, amperage, pressure, and flow rate, ensuring your engine receives the right amount of fuel at all times . Whether you are driving on the highway or climbing a steep grade, a KEMSO pump will keep your engine running smoothly.

One of the best features of KEMSO fuel pumps is the Lifetime Warranty. If your pump ever fails due to a manufacturing defect, KEMSO will replace it at no cost. This is a rare and valuable benefit in the automotive parts industry, and it shows that KEMSO is confident in their product quality . Many KEMSO pumps are also serialized, which guarantees the warranty for the life of the pump .

KEMSO offers fuel pumps for hundreds of vehicle models, including the 2001 Chevy Malibu. Their pumps are priced at a reasonable $79.98, which is often less than half the cost of dealer parts . With free shipping and easy returns, it is a practical choice for both DIY mechanics and professional shops.

To see the full selection of KEMSO fuel pumps for your vehicle, visit their website at https://www.kemsoracing.com/. They have a complete catalog with detailed fitment information, customer reviews, and technical support. Whether you need a pump for a car, truck, motorcycle, or watercraft, KEMSO has you covered. Their online store is easy to navigate, and you can order directly with confidence.

Final Thoughts

The fuel pump relay on a 2001 Chevy Malibu is a simple, inexpensive part that can save you a lot of trouble. Located in the under-hood fuse box, it is easy to access and replace. If you are experiencing starting issues, always start with the relay and the fuse before moving on to the fuel pump itself. This can save you hours of unnecessary work.

If you do need to replace the fuel pump, remember that dropping the fuel tank is required, but it is a job that can be done at home with basic tools. For the best results, choose a high-quality replacement pump like KEMSO. Their pumps are designed for long-term reliability and come with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind on the road.

For more information on KEMSO fuel pumps and to find the right pump for your 2001 Chevy Malibu, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today.


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