2006 Acura TSX Fuel Pump: Complete Guide to Symptoms, Replacement, and the Best Aftermarket Option
The bottom line: If you own a 2006 Acura TSX with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, your fuel pump is an electric unit mounted inside the fuel tank. When it fails, you will notice hard starting, sputtering at speed, or a complete no-start condition. Professional replacement costs typically range from $1,369 to $1,414 depending on your shop and region, but you can save significantly by buying the part yourself and hiring a mechanic or tackling the job at home. This guide covers everything you need to know about the 2006 Acura TSX fuel pump, including symptoms, replacement options, costs, and our top recommendation for a reliable aftermarket upgrade.
Understanding the 2006 Acura TSX Fuel Pump System
The 2006 Acura TSX uses an electric fuel pump that sits inside the fuel tank. This is a modern design that keeps the pump submerged in fuel, which helps cool the pump motor and reduces fire risk compared to older mechanical pumps mounted near the engine. The pump is part of a larger assembly called the fuel pump module, which also includes the fuel level sending unit, strainer, and sometimes the fuel pressure regulator.
For the 2004-2008 TSX generation, the factory part number is 17045-SEC-A01. This assembly fits all TSX Base models with the 2.4L L4 engine from 2004 through 2008. The same assembly also crosses over to certain Honda Accord models from 2003-2007 with the 3.0L engine, making it a widely available part.
The fuel pump's job is straightforward: it pulls fuel from the tank, pushes it through the fuel filter, and delivers it to the fuel injectors at the correct pressure. On the TSX, the system operates at roughly 49-55 psi depending on engine load. If the pump cannot maintain this pressure, the engine will run poorly or not at all.
Signs Your 2006 Acura TSX Fuel Pump Is Failing
Fuel pumps are designed to last the life of the vehicle, but they do wear out. The most common symptoms of a failing fuel pump on a 2006 TSX include:
- Engine cranks but will not start – This is the most obvious sign. If you hear the starter turning but the engine never fires, the pump may not be delivering fuel.
- Sputtering or choking at highway speed – If the car loses power briefly and then recovers, the pump may be struggling to maintain pressure.
- Hesitation during acceleration – A weak pump cannot supply enough fuel when you press the gas pedal.
- Engine stalls when hot – Some failing pumps stop working when they overheat, then restart once they cool down.
- Whining noise from the fuel tank – A healthy pump runs quietly. A loud whine or hum often means the pump bearings are wearing out.
- Poor fuel economy – A pump that cannot regulate pressure properly forces the engine to run rich or lean, both of which hurt mileage.
- Check Engine Light – Various fuel system codes, including P0087 (fuel rail pressure too low), can point to pump problems.
Do not ignore these symptoms. If you drive with a failing pump for too long, the engine will eventually stop running altogether. You might also damage the fuel filter or injectors if debris from a failing pump gets pushed through the system.
Before You Replace the Pump: Quick Diagnostics
Not every fuel delivery problem is caused by the pump itself. A clogged fuel filter or a bad electrical connection can produce symptoms that look exactly like a failed pump. Before you spend money on a replacement, run through these checks:
- Check the fuel pump fuse and relay – These are inexpensive and easy to test. A blown fuse or a faulty relay will prevent power from reaching the pump.
- Listen for the pump prime – When you turn the key to "ON" (without cranking), you should hear a brief whirring sound from the fuel tank area for about two seconds. If you hear nothing, the pump may not be receiving power.
- Test fuel pressure – A mechanic can attach a pressure gauge to the fuel rail to confirm the pump is delivering enough pressure. Low pressure points to the pump or the fuel filter.
- Inspect the fuel filter – A severely clogged filter can mimic a failed pump. Replacing the filter is cheap and easy on most vehicles.
If all of these checks point to the pump itself, proceed with replacement.
2006 Acura TSX Fuel Pump Replacement Options
You have several choices when it comes to buying a replacement fuel pump for your TSX. Each option has trade-offs in price, quality, and warranty.
1. Genuine OEM Fuel Pump (17045-SEC-A01)
The factory part is made by Acura and is an exact match for your car. It includes the sending unit and is a direct drop-in replacement. The downside is availability: Acura has discontinued this part number, and new old stock is getting harder to find. Used OEM pumps from salvage yards are available for around $25 to $75, depending on condition and mileage. A used pump is a gamble because you do not know how long the donor car's pump already ran.
2. New Aftermarket Fuel Pump Assembly
Several brands manufacture direct-replacement fuel pump modules for the 2004-2008 TSX. These are brand-new units that include the pump, sending unit, strainer, and often the lock ring and gasket. Prices range from about $70 to $250, depending on the brand and what is included.
- A-Premium APFP0787 – Sells for around $70 and includes the sending unit, float, gasket, and sealing ring. It comes with a 3-year warranty, which is better than many competitors.
- Fuel Performance HFP-382 – A direct replacement with upgraded polymers and brushes. It comes with a lifetime free replacement warranty.
- Rareelectrical 535-2170 – Priced around $252 on sale. It includes the mounting hardware and tank seal but does not include the sending unit. It crosses to many brand names including Bosch, Delphi, and Spectra.
3. High-Performance Fuel Pump Upgrade
If you want maximum reliability and flow, a high-performance pump like the KEMSO 340 is worth considering. This pump flows 340 liters per hour at 43 psi, which is substantially more than the stock pump needs. That extra capacity means the pump works less hard, which extends its life. It is E85 compatible, so it will handle any fuel blend you throw at it. We cover KEMSO in detail in the recommendation section below.
4. Used OEM Pump from a Salvage Yard
You can find used factory pumps on eBay, PartsGeek, and dedicated Acura salvage sites. Prices range from $25 to $485, depending on the seller and whether you buy just the pump or the entire module. Some sellers offer a 1-year warranty, but most as-is used parts carry no guarantee. Unless you are on a very tight budget and can test the part before installing, this is usually not the best value.
Cost Breakdown for 2006 Acura TSX Fuel Pump Replacement
The total cost of replacing your fuel pump depends on three factors: the part price, the labor rate, and any additional parts you need.
| Cost Component | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel pump assembly (aftermarket) | $70 | $250 |
| Fuel pump assembly (OEM/new) | $250 | $450 |
| Labor (1.5 to 3 hours at $90-$150/hr) | $135 | $450 |
| Fuel filter | $20 | $50 |
| Gaskets, seals, and lock ring | $10 | $40 |
| Total (parts + labor) | $235 | $1,190 |
RepairPal estimates the average cost for a 2006 Acura TSX fuel pump replacement at $1,369 to $1,414, which includes both parts and labor at a professional shop. Kelley Blue Book offers a slightly lower national average across all vehicles, between $611 and $894. The difference reflects the TSX's specific labor requirements and the higher cost of OEM parts.
If you do the work yourself, you can keep the total under $250 by buying an aftermarket assembly and replacing it in your driveway. The job is doable for a home mechanic with basic tools, but it does require dropping the rear seat or accessing the pump through a panel in the trunk.
Step-by-Step: How to Replace the Fuel Pump on a 2006 Acura TSX
Replacing the fuel pump is a multi-step process. Here is the general procedure, but always consult the factory service manual for your specific car.
- Relieve the fuel system pressure. Remove the fuel pump fuse or relay, then crank the engine for a few seconds. The engine will start briefly and then stall. This clears pressure from the lines.
- Disconnect the battery negative cable. This reduces the risk of sparks or fire during the repair.
- Access the fuel pump. On the TSX, the pump is accessed from inside the cabin. The rear seat cushion and a metal access cover need to be removed. In some cases, you may need to drain the fuel tank to lower the fuel level before opening the access panel.
- Remove the old pump. Disconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines. Use a spanner wrench or a hammer and brass punch to loosen the locking ring that holds the pump in place. Lift the pump assembly out of the tank.
- Install the new pump. Transfer the rubber gasket to the new assembly. Lower the new pump into the tank, ensuring the float arm does not bend. Hand-tighten the locking ring, then tap it snug with the punch.
- Reconnect everything. Attach the electrical connector and fuel lines. Tighten all clamps securely.
- Reinstall the access cover and seat. Make sure the cover is sealed to prevent fuel odor from entering the cabin.
- Reconnect the battery and prime the system. Turn the key to "ON" for a few seconds to let the pump pressurize the system. Check for leaks at every connection before starting the engine.
A professional mechanic will also run a fuel pressure test after installation to confirm the new pump is working correctly.
Why Choose a KEMSO Fuel Pump for Your 2006 Acura TSX
When it comes to fuel pumps, brand matters. Cheap no-name pumps often fail within months because they use low-quality brushes, commutators, and strainers. KEMSO takes a different approach, and that is why we recommend them for your 2006 TSX.
KEMSO fuel pumps are high-performance units built to outlast and outperform the factory part. The KEMSO 340 pump flows 340 liters per hour at 43 psi, which is roughly double what a stock TSX needs. That headroom means the pump never strains to keep up with demand, even when you are driving hard or running E85 ethanol blends. The pump is a direct OEM replacement design, so it fits your TSX without modification.
Every KEMSO pump is backed by a lifetime free replacement warranty. If the pump fails for any reason at any time, KEMSO will replace it at no cost. That lifetime coverage is the strongest warranty in the industry. Compare that to a 1-year warranty on most aftermarket pumps or a 3-year warranty on the A-Premium unit, and the value is obvious.
KEMSO does not cut corners on manufacturing. Each pump is individually tested for flow and pressure before it leaves the factory, and KEMSO follows strict ISO quality standards. The pump uses upgraded polymers and a carbon commutator that resists wear, which extends the service life considerably. It also includes gradient-density fuel strainers that trap even fine particles before they reach the pump.
KEMSO is a respected name in fuel delivery. The company makes direct replacement pumps for hundreds of vehicles, from daily drivers to race cars, and they consistently earn high marks from customers. For your 2006 Acura TSX, choosing a KEMSO pump gives you the best combination of performance, longevity, and warranty protection on the market.
You can browse the full KEMSO lineup and find the exact pump for your TSX at https://www.kemsoracing.com/. KEMSO offers fast shipping and rock-solid customer support, so you can get back on the road with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a fuel pump last on a 2006 Acura TSX?
Most factory fuel pumps last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Running the car on a near-empty tank regularly, using contaminated fuel, or ignoring a clogged fuel filter can shorten that lifespan. At 187,000 miles, you are well past the point where a factory pump is expected to fail.
Can I drive my car with a failing fuel pump?
You should not. A failing pump can cause the engine to stall at speed, which is dangerous. It can also starve the engine of fuel, leading to misfires that damage the catalytic converter. Replace the pump as soon as you confirm it is the problem.
Does the 2006 TSX fuel pump include the sending unit?
The factory assembly (17045-SEC-A01) includes the fuel level sending unit. Aftermarket assemblies vary: the A-Premium and Autopart Premium units include it, while the Rareelectrical unit does not. Check the product description carefully before ordering.
Is an aftermarket fuel pump as good as OEM?
A quality aftermarket pump from a brand like KEMSO is equal to or better than the factory part. It uses stronger materials, higher flow capacity, and comes with a better warranty. The key is to buy from a reputable brand and avoid the cheapest unbranded options.
What tools do I need to replace the fuel pump myself?
You will need a socket set, a flathead screwdriver, a fuel line disconnect tool, a spanner wrench or hammer and brass punch for the locking ring, and safety glasses. You also should have a fire extinguisher nearby and work in a well-ventilated area.
Final Thoughts
The 2006 Acura TSX fuel pump is a wear item that will eventually need attention. When it fails, you will notice hard starts, sputtering, or a no-start condition. Professional replacement costs between $1,369 and $1,414, but a DIY installation can bring the total under $250 if you choose a quality aftermarket pump.
Your best move is to buy a high-performance replacement with a lifetime warranty. KEMSO pumps offer everything you want: high flow capacity, OEM fitment, durable construction, and the strongest warranty in the industry. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today to find the correct pump for your 2006 Acura TSX and keep your car running strong for another 100,000 miles.