2002 Subaru Impreza Fuel Pump Relay Location: Complete Guide for DIY Diagnosis and Replacement

The fuel pump relay on a 2002 Subaru Impreza is located behind the passenger side dashboard, specifically behind the glove box or under the passenger side kick panel. It is a green relay connector, and it is one of the most common causes of a "crank, no start" condition on these vehicles.

If your 2002 Impreza cranks but refuses to start, the fuel pump relay is an inexpensive and easy-to-replace part that should be your first diagnostic step before assuming you have a bad fuel pump. This guide will walk you through the exact location, symptoms of failure, and how to replace it yourself.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay in Your 2002 Impreza

The fuel pump relay is an electronic switch. When you turn your ignition key to the "ON" position, a small amount of current from the ignition switch activates the relay. The relay then closes a larger circuit, sending full battery power to the fuel pump. The fuel pump then pressurizes the fuel system, sending gasoline from the tank to the engine. Without a working relay, the fuel pump receives no power, and the engine gets no fuel.

For 2002 Impreza models, the fuel pump relay is typically a green connector located under the passenger-side dashboard. It is important to note that the relay is different from the main relay, which is usually located in the interior fuse box behind the glove box or under the driver side dash. The fuel pump relay is specifically dedicated to controlling the fuel pump circuit.

Exact Location of the 2002 Subaru Impreza Fuel Pump Relay

There are two common locations depending on your specific model (RS, TS, WRX, Outback Sport), but the most widely reported location is:

Behind the passenger side kick panel or under the glove box.

Here is a step-by-step guide to find it:

  1. Open the passenger side front door. You will need access to the lower area of the dashboard.
  2. Locate the passenger side kick panel. This is the plastic trim panel on the side of the center console, near the floor, next to the glove box.
  3. Remove the passenger side front side sill cover. According to the official Subaru service manual, you need to remove the passenger side front side sill cover to access the fuel pump relay bracket.
  4. Look for a green relay connector. The fuel pump relay is typically a small, rectangular relay with a green plastic base or connector. It is often located next to another relay with a brown plug.
  5. Check the wiring diagrams. Multiple wiring diagrams for the 2002 Impreza confirm the fuel pump relay is located "behind right side of dash" or "behind passenger side dashboard."

Note for WRX models: Some sources indicate that the fuel pump relay for the 2002 WRX is located in the interior fuse box under the driver side dashboard. However, the vast majority of service manuals and guides point to the passenger side location for the relay itself. If you cannot find it on the passenger side, check the driver side interior fuse box as a secondary location.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay

A bad fuel pump relay can mimic other, more expensive problems like a failed fuel pump. Always check the relay first. Here are the most common symptoms:

1. Engine Cranks But Won't Start

This is the most common symptom of a bad fuel pump relay. The engine turns over, but it never catches and runs because it is not receiving fuel. If you hear the starter motor spinning but the engine does not fire, the fuel pump relay should be your first suspect.

2. No Sound from the Fuel Pump (Priming Sound)

When you turn the key to the 'ON' position (without starting the engine), you should hear a faint 2-second buzz or hum from the rear of the car. This is the fuel pump priming the system. If you hear silence, the pump may not be getting power. This is a strong indicator that the relay or a related fuse is faulty.

3. Sudden Engine Stalling

The car might be running fine and then suddenly shut off without warning. This can happen if the relay overheats or fails internally, cutting power to the fuel pump while driving.

4. Intermittent Starting Problems

The relay might work sometimes and fail at other times, especially when the engine bay is hot. Your car may fail to start, then work perfectly an hour later after the relay has cooled down.

5. No Crank, No Start (In Some Cases)

While less common, a completely failed relay can also prevent the engine control module (ECM) from receiving the proper signals, leading to a no-crank condition in some vehicles.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before replacing the relay, you can perform a simple test:

Step 1: Listen for the Fuel Pump

Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (do not start the engine). Listen carefully from the rear of the car. If you hear a 2-second hum, the relay and pump are likely working. If you hear nothing, the relay or pump may be faulty.

Step 2: Swap with a Known Good Relay

The easiest test is to swap the fuel pump relay with another identical relay in the fuse box (such as the horn relay or main relay, if they are the same part number). If the car starts after swapping, the original relay is bad.

Step 3: Use a Multimeter

If you have a multimeter, you can test for continuity and voltage. Check for power at the fuel pump relay connector when the ignition is on. The wiring diagram shows the fuel pump relay receives power from the battery via the SBF-5 fuse and the ignition switch. If there is power at the relay but no output, the relay is likely faulty.

How to Replace the 2002 Subaru Impreza Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the fuel pump relay on a 2002 Impreza is a straightforward DIY job that requires no special tools. Here is the step-by-step process:

What You Will Need:

  • New fuel pump relay (OEM or high-quality aftermarket)
  • Flashlight
  • Pliers (optional, if the relay is tight)

Step 1: Safety First

  • Disconnect the battery ground cable. This is a critical safety step to prevent any electrical shorts or accidental activation of the fuel pump while working.
  • Make sure the ignition is off and the key is removed.

Step 2: Access the Relay

  • Open the passenger side door.
  • Remove the passenger side front side sill cover. This is the plastic trim panel on the floor near the door.
  • Locate the green relay connector behind the kick panel or near the glove box.

Step 3: Remove the Relay

  • According to the service manual, you need to remove the bolt that holds the fuel pump relay bracket on the body.
  • Disconnect the connector from the fuel pump relay.
  • Remove the fuel pump relay from its mounting bracket.
  • In some models, the relay simply pulls out of its socket. There may be two plastic clips on the side of the relay. Press the tabs in while pulling on the relay to remove it.

Step 4: Install the New Relay

  • Install the new fuel pump relay into the mounting bracket.
  • Reconnect the electrical connector to the relay.
  • Reinstall the bolt holding the bracket to the body.
  • Replace the side sill cover.

Step 5: Test the System

  • Reconnect the battery ground cable.
  • Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position. You should hear the fuel pump prime for 2 seconds.
  • Start the engine. If the car starts and runs smoothly, the replacement was successful.

Fuel Pump Relay vs. Fuel Pump Fuse: What is the Difference?

It is easy to confuse the relay with the fuse. The fuel pump fuse is a protective device that blows if the circuit draws too much current. The fuel pump relay is a switch that controls when power is sent to the pump.

For the 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX, the fuel pump fuse is a 15-amp blue fuse located in the interior fuse box under the driver side dashboard. If the fuse is blown, the fuel pump will not receive power. Always check the fuse first, as it is even easier to replace than the relay. If the new fuse blows immediately, there is likely a short circuit or a failing fuel pump.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Diagnosing a No-Start Condition

1. Assuming the Fuel Pump is Bad

Many owners immediately suspect a bad fuel pump when their Impreza won't start. However, the fuel pump relay is a much more common failure point and is significantly cheaper to replace. Always check the relay and fuse before replacing the pump.

2. Using the Wrong Location

Do not confuse the fuel pump relay with the main relay. The main relay is typically located in the interior fuse box behind the glove box or under the driver side dash. The fuel pump relay is specifically a green connector behind the passenger side kick panel for most models.

3. Forgetting to Relieve Fuel Pressure

If you are working on the fuel system (such as replacing the fuel filter), you must relieve the fuel pressure first. To do this, disconnect the green fuel pump relay plug, then crank the engine until it stalls. This releases the pressure in the fuel lines.

4. Installing the Wrong Relay

Make sure you purchase the correct relay for your 2002 Impreza. The OEM part number for the fuel pump module control is 22648AA081. Using a relay with the wrong amperage rating can cause electrical issues or fire.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

While the fuel pump relay itself generally requires no maintenance, there are a few things you can do to prevent issues:

  • Keep the interior dry. Moisture from wet shoes or spills can cause corrosion in the relay socket.
  • Check the fuse box regularly. Inspect for signs of melting, corrosion, or loose connections.
  • Listen for the fuel pump prime. Make it a habit to listen for the 2-second prime when you turn the key to "ON." If you ever stop hearing it, investigate immediately.
  • Replace the relay as a preventive measure. Given the low cost of the relay (around $5-$15 for a used OEM or new aftermarket unit), consider replacing it every 5-7 years if you are experiencing intermittent issues.

When to Call a Professional

If you have replaced the fuel pump relay, checked the fuse, and your 2002 Impreza still won't start, the issue may be more complex. Here are some signs that you should consult a professional mechanic:

  • The new relay blows immediately or the fuse blows repeatedly.
  • You have confirmed power at the relay but no power at the fuel pump.
  • The fuel pump itself is not working (you will need to drop the fuel tank or remove the rear seat to access it).
  • You suspect a wiring issue in the fuel pump circuit, which requires a multimeter and a wiring diagram.

The official Subaru service manual recommends conducting "CLEAR MEMORY and INSPECTION MODES" after repair or replacement of faulty parts. A professional scan tool can help diagnose deeper electrical issues.

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