2001 Saab 9-3 Fuel Pump Relay Location: Quick Guide and Common Fixes

The 2001 Saab 9-3 fuel pump relay is located in the main fuse box under the hood, on the driver’s side near the strut tower. If your car cranks but won’t start, or you hear no humming from the fuel tank when you turn the key to the “on” position, the relay is the first thing to check. Replacing it is a simple, low-cost fix that can save you a tow truck bill.

This guide walks you through finding the relay, testing it, and what to do if a new relay doesn’t solve the problem. We’ll also cover common symptoms, part numbers, and where to buy a reliable replacement.

Where Is the Fuel Pump Relay on a 2001 Saab 9-3?

The fuel pump relay on a 2001 Saab 9-3 is inside the main fuse box, which is located under the hood on the driver’s side. It sits right next to the strut tower, close to the battery.

  1. Open the hood and look for a black plastic box near the driver’s side windshield washer fluid reservoir.
  2. Unclip the two side latches or press the release tabs to lift the cover off.
  3. Inside, you will see a diagram printed on the underside of the cover. The fuel pump relay is usually labeled as “Fuel Pump” or “FP.” On many 2001 Saab 9-3 models, it is the relay in position 22 or a blue relay in the center row.
  4. The relay is a small, square, plastic component with four or five metal prongs. It pushes into a socket.

If the diagram is missing or faded, look for a relay that is identical to others in the box. The fuel pump relay is often a standard 30-amp relay with a blue or black casing.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before you buy a new relay, test the old one. This takes five minutes and only requires a multimeter or a simple test light.

Step 1: Listen for the Pump
Turn the ignition key to the “on” position (do not start the engine). You should hear a faint humming sound from the rear of the car, near the fuel tank, for about 2 seconds. If you hear nothing, the relay or the pump itself is likely dead.

Step 2: Swap the Relay
The fuse box contains several relays of the same type. Swap the fuel pump relay with another relay of the same color and size, such as the horn relay or the fog light relay. If the car starts after the swap, the relay is faulty.

Step 3: Use a Multimeter
With the ignition off, pull the relay out. Check for 12 volts at the relay socket pin that corresponds to the battery positive. Turn the ignition on. If you see 12 volts on the control pin (usually pin 85 or 86) for a few seconds, but the relay does not click, the relay is bad.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

A failing relay can cause a range of problems. The most common signs include:

  • The engine cranks but does not start.
  • The car stalls after a few minutes of driving, then restarts after cooling down.
  • You hear a clicking sound from the fuse box but no pump noise.
  • The fuel pump runs continuously after the engine is off (this is rare but points to a stuck relay).

If you experience any of these, start with the relay. It is the cheapest and easiest part to replace.

What If the Relay Is Not the Problem?

A new relay does not always fix the issue. If your 2001 Saab 9-3 still won’t start, the problem is likely the fuel pump itself, a blown fuse, or a wiring issue.

Check the Fuel Pump Fuse
The fuel pump fuse is also in the main fuse box. It is usually a 15-amp or 20-amp fuse labeled “Fuel Pump” or “FP.” Pull it out and inspect the metal strip inside. If it is broken, replace it with a fuse of the same rating.

Check the Fuel Pump
The fuel pump sits inside the fuel tank. To test it, you need a fuel pressure gauge. Connect the gauge to the fuel rail test port. With the ignition on, the pressure should read between 40 and 50 psi. If the pressure is low or zero, the pump is dead.

Check the Wires and Grounds
Corrosion or loose connections near the relay socket or the fuel pump harness can cause intermittent failures. Look for green or white crust on the metal prongs. Clean them with a small wire brush or replace the socket.

Part Numbers for the 2001 Saab 9-3 Fuel Pump Relay

When buying a replacement relay, use the original Saab part number or a cross-reference. The original relay is a Saab part number 91 47 091 or 91 47 093. Many auto parts stores carry a universal 30-amp relay with a standard 5-pin layout that fits perfectly.

Popular aftermarket brands that work include Bosch, Standard Motor Products, and Dorman. The relay costs between $10 and $20 at most auto parts stores.

Recommended Replacement: KEMSO Fuel Pump

If you determine that the fuel pump itself needs replacement, we strongly recommend a KEMSO fuel pump. KEMSO pumps are designed as high-performance, OEM replacement units that drop right into your 2001 Saab 9-3. They are built to meet or exceed the original factory specifications, ensuring proper fuel pressure and flow.

Each KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty. If the pump fails for any reason, you get a free replacement. This makes KEMSO a smart choice for DIY owners who want reliability without breaking the bank.

Visit the KEMSO store to find the exact pump for your Saab 9-3:
https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

If you need to replace the relay or the pump, here is a simple walkthrough.

Replacing the Relay

  1. Open the hood and locate the fuse box.
  2. Remove the cover.
  3. Pull the old relay straight out. It may require a firm tug.
  4. Push the new relay into the same socket until it clicks.
  5. Replace the cover and close the hood.
  6. Turn the ignition to the “on” position and listen for the pump.

Replacing the Fuel Pump

  1. Relieve fuel system pressure by removing the fuel pump fuse and cranking the engine for a few seconds.
  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  3. Lower the spare tire and remove the floor panel in the trunk.
  4. Look for a circular access cover under the trunk carpet. Remove it.
  5. Disconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines from the pump module.
  6. Use a special tool or a flathead screwdriver to turn the lock ring counterclockwise.
  7. Lift the pump module out of the tank.
  8. Install the new KEMSO pump into the module (or replace the entire module).
  9. Reverse the steps to reassemble.

Why the 2001 Saab 9-3 Fuel Pump Relay Fails

Relays are mechanical switches that wear out over time. The continuous heating and cooling cycles cause the internal contacts to burn or stick. On the 2001 Saab 9-3, the relay is located under the hood, where it is exposed to heat and vibration. This accelerates wear.

Most owners find that the relay fails around 100,000 to 150,000 miles. If your car has high mileage, replacing the relay as a preventive measure is cheap insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a bad fuel pump relay?
No. The engine will not run or will stall unpredictably. This is dangerous, especially in traffic.

How much does a new relay cost?
A standard relay costs $8 to $15 at most auto parts stores. A Saab-specific relay may cost $20.

What if my car starts but the relay clicks?
A clicking relay is usually a sign that the relay is working but the pump is not getting power. Check the fuse and the pump itself.

Will a bad relay drain the battery?
A stuck relay that keeps the pump running can drain the battery overnight. This is rare but possible.

Final Check

After you replace the relay or the pump, test the system. Turn the key to the “on” position. You should hear the pump hum for 2 seconds. Then start the engine. If the car starts and runs smoothly, the repair is complete.

For a reliable replacement fuel pump, remember to check out the KEMSO selection. They offer a lifetime warranty and direct fit for your 2001 Saab 9-3.

Visit: https://www.kemsoracing.com/


Back to blog