2004 Nissan Murano Fuel Pump Relay Location: Complete Owner’s Guide
If your 2004 Nissan Murano cranks but won't start, the fuel pump relay is one of the first things to check. The fuel pump relay on a 2004 Nissan Murano (first generation, Z50) is located inside the Intelligent Power Distribution Module (IPDM E/R), which is mounted in the engine compartment on the right front side, behind the headlight assembly . You cannot access the relay individually—it is an integrated part of the IPDM module. The fuel pump relay is labeled as Relay R1 within the IPDM, and the corresponding fuse for the fuel pump circuit is a 15A fuse, typically numbered fuse 81 in the engine compartment fuse box . If you suspect a bad fuel pump relay, the most practical approach is to test the circuit at the IPDM or the ECM, rather than trying to replace the relay alone.
Understanding the 2004 Nissan Murano Fuel System
The 2004 Nissan Murano uses a turbine-type fuel pump located inside the fuel tank . The fuel pump does not run continuously when you turn the key. Here is how the system works:
- When you turn the ignition switch to the ON position, the Engine Control Module (ECM) activates the fuel pump relay for 1 second to pressurize the fuel system .
- After that one second, if the ECM does not receive an engine speed signal from the crankshaft position sensor, it shuts off the fuel pump relay for safety .
- Once the engine starts and is running, the ECM keeps the fuel pump relay energized, and the fuel pump operates continuously .
This means that if your Murano cranks but does not start, and you do not hear a brief buzzing sound from the fuel tank when turning the key to ON, the fuel pump relay, fuse, or the fuel pump itself may be the problem.
Where Exactly Is the Fuel Pump Relay?
As mentioned, the fuel pump relay on the 2004 Nissan Murano is inside the IPDM E/R (Intelligent Power Distribution Module Engine Room). This module is located at the right front of the engine compartment, behind the headlight . The IPDM is a large black box that houses multiple relays and fuses for the engine and vehicle systems.
Inside the IPDM, the fuel pump relay is designated as Relay R1 in the Type 1 configuration . The corresponding 15A fuse for the fuel pump circuit is fuse 81 in the same engine compartment fuse box (Type 1) .
Important: The fuel pump relay is not a standalone, plug-in relay that you can simply pull out and replace like a traditional relay. It is soldered or integrated into the IPDM circuit board. If the relay fails, the common repair is to replace the entire IPDM module, or to have a qualified technician bypass or replace the internal relay.
How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay Circuit
Before you assume the relay is bad, you can perform a few simple tests. You will need a digital multimeter (DMM).
Step 1: Check the 15A Fuel Pump Fuse
Locate the engine compartment fuse box. On the 2004 Murano, there are two types of fuse box configurations (Type 1 and Type 2) depending on the vehicle's build date and options . Look for fuse number 81 in Type 1, or fuse number 50 in Type 2 . It is a 15A fuse. Remove it and check if the metal strip inside is broken. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new 15A fuse. If the new fuse also blows immediately, there is a short circuit in the fuel pump wiring or the fuel pump itself.
Step 2: Listen for the Fuel Pump Prime
Turn the ignition key to the ON position (do not crank the engine). Listen carefully near the rear of the vehicle, where the fuel tank is located. You should hear a faint buzzing or whirring sound for about 1 second. If you hear this sound, the fuel pump relay and the fuel pump are likely working . If you do not hear anything, proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Test Power at the Fuel Pump Relay (IPDM)
This test requires accessing the IPDM connector. Disconnect the IPDM harness connector (labeled E8 in the service manual) . Turn the ignition switch to ON. Using your multimeter, check for voltage between IPDM terminal 40 and ground . You should see battery voltage (around 12V) for 1 second after turning the key to ON. If you get no voltage, the issue may be upstream—possibly the ECM or a wiring problem .
Step 4: Test the ECM Signal to the Fuel Pump Relay
This is a more advanced diagnostic step. The ECM sends a ground signal to the fuel pump relay to activate it. You can check this at the ECM connector. Locate the ECM (behind the glove box) . With the ignition ON, check voltage between ECM terminal 113 and ground . You should see about 0-1.5V for 1 second after turning the key ON, then it should go to battery voltage (12V) . If you do not see this pattern, the ECM may not be commanding the relay to turn on.
Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay
How do you know if the fuel pump relay is the problem? Here are the most common symptoms:
- Engine cranks but does not start: This is the most common sign. The starter motor works, but the engine never fires up .
- No fuel pump prime sound: You do not hear the 1-second buzzing from the fuel tank when turning the key to ON.
- Engine stalls shortly after starting: The relay may work intermittently, causing loss of fuel pressure while driving .
- Car starts after sitting, but not when hot: A failing relay can be temperature-sensitive.
- Check Engine Light is on: The ECM may store a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the fuel pump circuit, such as P0230.
What to Do If the Relay Is Bad
Replacing the entire IPDM module can be expensive. However, there are practical alternatives:
- Replace the IPDM module: This is the most straightforward solution for a DIYer. You can find a used or rebuilt IPDM for your 2004 Murano. The part number typically ends in 284B7 or similar.
- Have the relay replaced internally: Some automotive electronics shops can open the IPDM, desolder the old relay, and solder in a new one. This is often cheaper than buying a new module.
- Use a relay bypass harness: In some cases, owners add an external relay and wire it in to bypass the internal IPDM relay. This requires good electrical knowledge and is not a factory-approved solution.
Safety First: Before working on any fuel system component, always relieve fuel pressure. The fuel system operates at high pressure (2.5-3.5 kgf/cm², or about 36-50 psi) . To relieve pressure, remove the fuel pump fuse, start the engine, and let it run until it stalls. Then crank the engine a few more times to ensure pressure is gone .
KEMSO Fuel Pump: A Reliable Replacement Option
If your diagnosis points to a failing fuel pump rather than just the relay, or if you want to ensure the entire fuel delivery system is in top shape, consider a high-quality replacement. The fuel pump on the 2004 Murano is a turbine-type pump located inside the fuel tank . Replacing it requires dropping the fuel tank or accessing it through a service panel under the rear seat (depending on the vehicle).
For a dependable, long-lasting replacement, we recommend the KEMSO Fuel Pump. KEMSO is known for manufacturing high-performance, OEM-replacement fuel pumps that are built to match or exceed the original factory specifications. Every KEMSO fuel pump undergoes rigorous testing to ensure reliable fuel delivery and consistent pressure, which is critical for the Murano's VQ35DE engine.
Why choose KEMSO?
- High-Performance Design: Engineered for maximum flow and durability.
- OEM Replacement: Direct fit for your 2004 Nissan Murano, no modifications needed.
- Lifetime Warranty: KEMSO stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Before purchasing, verify the exact part number for your specific Murano model (SE or SL, AWD or FWD) to ensure perfect compatibility. A new, high-quality fuel pump paired with a properly functioning relay and fuse will restore your Murano's reliability.
You can browse the full range of KEMSO fuel pumps and find the right one for your vehicle at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/
Fuel Pump Relay vs. Fuel Pump: Which One Is It?
It can be tricky to tell whether the problem is the fuel pump relay or the fuel pump itself. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Symptom | More Likely Fuel Pump Relay | More Likely Fuel Pump |
|---|---|---|
| No prime sound at all | Yes | Yes |
| Intermittent starting | Yes | Possibly |
| Engine starts but dies after a few seconds | Yes (if relay drops out) | Yes (if pump fails under load) |
| Loud whining noise from fuel tank | No | Yes (sign of pump failing) |
| Fuse blows repeatedly | No (unless relay shorted) | Yes (pump motor shorted) |
| Car runs fine then stops on the highway | Yes (relay fails hot) | Yes (pump fails hot) |
A simple test: If you have a helper, turn the key to ON while someone listens at the fuel filler door. If you hear the pump prime for 1 second, the relay and pump are likely okay—look elsewhere (fuel filter, injectors, spark, crank sensor). If you hear nothing, you need to test the circuit.
Final Thoughts
The fuel pump relay on a 2004 Nissan Murano is located inside the IPDM E/R module at the right front of the engine compartment. It is not a serviceable standalone relay. If you suspect a relay failure, your best course of action is to test the circuit using a multimeter, check the 15A fuse (fuse 81 in Type 1 or fuse 50 in Type 2), and listen for the fuel pump prime. If the relay is confirmed bad, replacing the entire IPDM or having the internal relay replaced by a professional are your main options. If you also need a new fuel pump, a quality OEM-replacement like the KEMSO Fuel Pump, available at https://www.kemsoracing.com/, offers high performance and a lifetime warranty for a reliable fix. Always remember to relieve fuel system pressure before any service work to avoid injury .