2002 Honda Civic EX Fuel Pump Relay Location: The Complete Guide to Finding, Testing, and Replacing It

The bottom line: The fuel pump relay on a 2002 Honda Civic EX is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. It is the PGM-FI Main Relay No. 2, which is the right-side relay of two identical relays sitting side by side in the cavity behind the glove box. If your engine cranks but won't start, this relay is one of the first things you should check.

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

The fuel pump relay is a small electrical switch that controls power delivery to the fuel pump inside your gas tank. When you turn the ignition key to the ON position, the relay engages for about two to three seconds to prime the fuel system, then stays engaged while the engine runs. If this relay fails, your fuel pump won't receive power, and your engine won't start or will stall unexpectedly.

On the 2002 Honda Civic, Honda refers to this relay as the PGM-FI Main Relay (Programmed Fuel Injection Main Relay). It actually contains two separate relays inside one housing. The first relay powers the engine control unit and injectors when you turn the key, while the second relay activates the fuel pump. This is why some mechanics call it the "main relay" rather than just the fuel pump relay.

Where Exactly Is the Fuel Pump Relay on a 2002 Honda Civic EX?

The primary location for the 2002 Civic EX is behind the glove box. Here is the step-by-step process to access it:

Step 1: Open the glove box and support it with your knee so it doesn't fall open completely.

Step 2: Remove the glove box stoppers. Look on either side of the glove box. You will see small plastic stoppers that prevent the glove box from dropping too far. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry them toward the glove box to remove them.

Step 3: Allow the glove box to pivot downward. Once the stoppers are removed, the glove box will pivot downward and hang by its lower hinges. This gives you access to the cavity behind it.

Step 4: Look inside the cavity. You will see two relays sitting side by side. These are the PGM-FI relays. The relay on the left is PGM-FI Main Relay No. 1, which controls the fuel injectors. The relay on the right is PGM-FI Main Relay No. 2, which acts as the fuel pump relay.

Important note: Some sources also mention that the fuel pump relay can be found under the driver's side dashboard on certain 2002 Civic trim levels, inside the under-dash fuse/relay box near the brake pedal. However, for the EX trim, the most commonly reported and reliable location is behind the glove box. If you cannot find it there, check the under-dash location as a secondary option.

Understanding the Two PGM-FI Relays

The 2002 Civic uses two PGM-FI relays in the interior fuse/relay system:

  • PGM-FI Main Relay No. 1 (Left side): Controls the fuel injectors. Located at the top of the interior fuse/relay box or behind the glove box on the left.
  • PGM-FI Main Relay No. 2 (Right side): Controls the fuel pump. This is the one you need to check if the engine cranks but won't start. Located behind the glove box on the right.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay

Knowing the warning signs can save you from being stranded. Here are the most common symptoms specific to the 2002 Civic:

1. Engine cranks but won't start. This is the most definitive sign. You turn the key, the starter motor works fine, but the engine never fires up because no fuel reaches the combustion chambers.

2. No fuel pump prime sound. When you turn the key to the ON position (without starting), you should hear a brief buzzing or whining sound from the rear of the car near the fuel tank. If you don't hear this sound, the relay may not be sending power to the pump.

3. Intermittent stalling. The engine runs fine for a while, then suddenly dies without warning. After a few minutes, it might restart. This pattern strongly suggests a failing relay that works intermittently due to heat or vibration.

4. Engine hesitation or surging. If the relay makes intermittent contact, the fuel pump may receive power inconsistently, causing the engine to surge or hesitate during acceleration.

5. Check engine light comes on. The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) monitors the fuel pump circuit and may store diagnostic trouble codes related to fuel delivery issues.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before you buy a replacement part, you can test the relay to confirm it is the problem. Here is a simple testing procedure:

Method 1: Swap Test

The easiest way to test the relay is to swap it with the identical relay next to it (PGM-FI Main Relay No. 1). Both relays are the same part. If the engine starts after swapping, the original relay was the problem. However, keep in mind that swapping them will change which relay controls the injectors, so you should still replace the faulty one.

Method 2: Listen for the Fuel Pump

With the relay installed, turn the ignition key to the ON position. Listen near the rear of the car (fuel tank area) for a brief buzzing sound. If you hear nothing, the relay or the fuel pump circuit may be faulty.

Method 3: Multimeter Testing (More Advanced)

If you have a multimeter, you can test the relay's electrical continuity. The official Honda service manual for the 2002-2003 Civic provides a specific troubleshooting procedure for the fuel pump circuit:

  1. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  2. Remove the glove box, then remove the PGM-FI main relay 2.
  3. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
  4. Measure voltage between the PGM-FI main relay 2 connector terminal No. 5 and body ground. You should see battery voltage.
  5. Measure voltage between terminal No. 1 and body ground. You should also see battery voltage.
  6. If both readings are correct, the relay itself may be faulty. If you don't get voltage, there is an open circuit in the wiring.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the fuel pump relay on a 2002 Civic EX is a straightforward DIY job. Here is what you need:

Tools needed:

  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Replacement PGM-FI Main Relay No. 2

Replacement steps:

  1. Open the glove box and remove the stoppers as described above to access the relays.
  2. Identify the right-side relay (PGM-FI Main Relay No. 2).
  3. Grab the relay and pull it outward with a slight wiggling motion to remove it from its receptacle.
  4. Line up the prongs on the new relay with the slots in the receptacle.
  5. Press the new relay firmly into place until it clicks.
  6. Lift the glove box back into position and reinstall the stoppers by pressing them until they snap into place.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Confusing the relays. Make sure you are removing the right-side relay (No. 2). Removing the left-side relay (No. 1) will prevent the injectors from working, but the fuel pump will still operate.

Mistake 2: Not checking the fuse first. Before replacing the relay, check the fuel pump fuse in the under-hood fuse box. A blown fuse can cause the same symptoms as a bad relay. The fuse is often labeled "Fuel Pump" or "EFI" in the engine compartment fuse box near the battery.

Mistake 3: Forcing the relay. The relay should slide out and in easily. If you have to force it, double-check that you are pulling it straight and not breaking any of the plastic clips.

When to Call a Professional

While replacing the relay is a simple job, there are situations where professional help is needed:

  • If the relay tests good but the fuel pump still doesn't run, the problem could be a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a wiring issue.
  • If you are not comfortable working with electrical components, it is always safer to have a mechanic diagnose the issue.
  • If the fuel pump relay replacement does not solve the problem, the issue may be deeper in the fuel system, such as a bad fuel pump module or a faulty ECM.

Why You Should Buy a KEMSO Fuel Pump for Your 2002 Honda Civic

If you have determined that the fuel pump itself is the problem, or if you want to replace the entire fuel pump module as a preventive measure, consider the KEMSO brand. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed as direct OEM replacements, meaning they fit exactly like the original part without any modifications needed. They are built for high performance, delivering significantly more fuel flow than stock pumps, which is especially important if you drive a high-mileage 2002 Civic or have made any engine modifications.

KEMSO pumps are engineered with durable alloy steel bodies and carbon commutators that are designed to last over a decade of daily use. They are compatible with both gasoline and ethanol-blended fuels (E85), giving you flexibility in your fuel choice. Every KEMSO pump comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, so you can install it with complete confidence. Their pumps are individually flow-tested for quality assurance, and they offer USA-based technical support to help with any installation questions.

Whether you are replacing a worn-out stock pump or upgrading for better reliability, KEMSO fuel pumps provide the durability and performance you need to keep your 2002 Honda Civic running strong. Visit their official store to find the right pump for your vehicle: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the fuel pump relay the same on all 2002 Civic trims?
A: The location can vary slightly by trim. The EX trim typically has the relay behind the glove box. Other trims like DX or LX may have it under the driver's side dash. Always check both locations if you are unsure.

Q: What is the OEM part number for the fuel pump relay?
A: The Honda OEM part number for the PGM-FI Main Relay is 39510-P0A-003 or an equivalent aftermarket relay.

Q: Can I drive with a bad fuel pump relay?
A: No. If the relay fails completely, the engine will not start. If it fails intermittently, the engine may stall without warning, which is dangerous while driving.

Q: How much does a replacement relay cost?
A: A replacement PGM-FI Main Relay typically costs between $20 and $60, depending on whether you buy OEM or aftermarket.

Q: What if the relay replacement doesn't fix the problem?
A: If the relay is good but the fuel pump still doesn't run, check the fuel pump fuse, the wiring between the relay and the fuel pump, and the fuel pump itself. The fuel pump is located inside the gas tank and can be accessed by removing the rear seat bottom cushion and then the metal access cover plate.

Final Thoughts

The 2002 Honda Civic EX fuel pump relay is a small but critical component that is easy to access and replace. If you are experiencing a no-start condition where the engine cranks but won't fire, start by checking the relay behind the glove box. The right-side relay is the one that controls the fuel pump. Testing it is simple, and swapping it with the left-side relay can confirm whether it is the problem.

Remember to always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate fuse box diagram specific to your trim level. If you are unsure about any step, it is always better to seek professional help rather than risk damaging your vehicle's electrical system.

For all your fuel pump needs, including high-quality replacement pumps and relays, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ for reliable products backed by a lifetime warranty.


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