2006 Saturn Ion Fuel Pump Relay Location: Where It Is and How to Replace It

he fuel pump relay on a 2006 Saturn Ion is located in the engine compartment fuse box, which sits on the driver's side of the vehicle under a plastic cover near the battery. This is the primary location for all 2006 model years regardless of whether your Ion has the 2.2L or 2.4L engine, and it is different from the floor console fuse block that handles interior electronics like the cigarette lighter and power windows . If your Ion cranks but will not start, or if you hear no fuel pump hum when you turn the key to the ON position, this relay should be one of the first components you inspect. Below, we walk through the exact location, how to identify the relay, symptoms of failure, and step-by-step replacement instructions.

Understanding What the Fuel Pump Relay Does

The fuel pump relay is a small electromechanical switch that controls power delivery to the electric fuel pump located inside your fuel tank. When you turn the ignition to the ON position, the engine control module (ECM) energizes the relay coil, which closes the contacts and sends battery voltage to the fuel pump. The pump then pressurizes the fuel system so the injectors can spray fuel into the cylinders . The ECM keeps the relay energized only as long as it detects ignition reference pulses—meaning the engine is actually rotating. If the engine stalls or you turn the key off, the ECM de-energizes the relay within about two seconds .

A faulty relay means the fuel pump receives no power, which results in a no-start condition even though the starter motor cranks the engine normally. The relay itself is a cube-shaped black plastic component with four or five metal prongs that plug into a socket inside the fuse box .

Exact Location of the 2006 Saturn Ion Fuel Pump Relay

For the 2006 Saturn Ion, the fuel pump relay is located in the underhood electrical center, which is the main fuse box in the engine compartment. Here is how to find it:

1. Open the hood and secure it with the prop rod.
2. Look on the driver's side of the engine bay, near the strut tower and battery. You will see a black plastic box with a cover.
3. Release the cover by pressing the tabs on the sides or lifting the latch, depending on your vehicle's build. Set the cover aside.
4. Inspect the relay layout. The fuel pump relay is typically labeled "FUEL PUMP" on the fuse box cover diagram or directly on the relay housing itself. If the label is worn, refer to the diagram printed on the underside of the fuse box cover .

Some sources note that the relay may be found in one of two places depending on the model year and engine, but for the 2006 model, the underhood fuse box is the standard location . The floor console fuse block—located on the driver's side of the central console behind a screw-secured panel—contains fuses for interior components but does not house the fuel pump relay on this model .

Identifying the Relay Inside the Fuse Box

Once the cover is off, you will see an array of fuses and relays. Relays are generally larger than fuses and have a square, cube-like shape. Look for the label "FUEL PUMP" on the fuse box cover or on the relay itself. If the cover diagram is missing, consult your owner's manual. On the 2006 Ion, the fuel pump relay is often a gray or black multi-use relay; genuine GM part numbers include 13503102 and 19118886, but aftermarket equivalents work just as well .

To confirm you have the right relay, pull it out and check the terminals. A multitester set to measure resistance across the coil terminals should show a finite resistance value, typically between 50 and 120 ohms. If you see infinite resistance, the coil is open and the relay needs replacement .

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay

A bad fuel pump relay can produce several noticeable symptoms. Recognizing these early can save you from being stranded:

1. Engine cranks but does not start. This is the most common symptom. The starter turns the engine over, but since the fuel pump is not receiving power, no fuel reaches the injectors .
2. No fuel pump priming noise. When you turn the key to the ON position without cranking, you should hear a brief whirring sound from the rear of the car—that is the fuel pump pressurizing the system. If you hear nothing, the relay may be dead .
3. Intermittent starting issues. If the relay contacts are corroded or worn, the car may start sometimes but fail at other times, especially when the engine bay is hot. Heat can worsen internal faults in the relay coil or contacts .
4. Engine stalls while driving. A relay that intermittently loses contact can cut power to the fuel pump while the engine is running, causing a sudden stall. The engine may restart after a few minutes once the relay cools .
5. Car dies shortly after starting. If the relay fails after initial engagement, the engine may run for a few seconds or minutes and then shut off as fuel pressure drops .

Keep in mind that other components can mimic these symptoms, including a clogged fuel filter, a failing crankshaft position sensor, or a defective ignition switch. Always verify the relay before replacing the fuel pump itself, which is a much more expensive job .

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before buying a new relay, test the one in your car to confirm it is faulty. Here is a simple procedure using a multimeter and a jumper wire:

1. Remove the relay from the fuse box.
2. Set your multimeter to the ohms scale or continuity mode.
3. Probe the coil terminals (usually the two smaller prongs). You should see a resistance reading between 50 and 120 ohms. If you read infinite resistance or zero, the relay coil is damaged .
4. Check the switch contacts (the two larger prongs). With the relay at rest, there should be no continuity between these prongs. Apply 12 volts to the coil terminals using a battery and jumper wires, and you should hear a click. With power applied, continuity should now exist between the switch contacts .
5. If the relay clicks but shows no continuity across the switch contacts when energized, the contacts are burned or pitted, and the relay must be replaced .

Another quick test uses a test lamp: with the relay removed and the ignition ON, probe the relay socket terminal that supplies battery voltage. The lamp should illuminate. Then, using a scan tool, command the fuel pump relay ON and OFF; the lamp should turn ON and OFF with each command. If the lamp stays on or does not respond, the control circuit or the ECM may be at fault .

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Replacing the fuel pump relay on a 2006 Saturn Ion is a straightforward job that most DIYers can handle in under 15 minutes. No special tools are required beyond a flathead screwdriver and possibly a pair of relay puller pliers (available at any auto parts store).

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and turn off the ignition.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any accidental shorts while working near the fuse box.
3. Remove the fuse box cover in the engine compartment as described above.
4. Locate the fuel pump relay. If the label is unclear, follow the diagram on the cover.
5. Pull the relay straight out using your fingers or a relay puller tool. Do not rock it side to side excessively, as this can bend the terminal prongs.
6. Inspect the relay socket for corrosion, burnt marks, or loose terminals. If the socket looks dirty, clean it with electrical contact cleaner and let it dry completely .
7. Install the new relay by pushing it straight down into the socket until it clicks into place. Ensure it is fully seated.
8. Replace the fuse box cover and reconnect the negative battery cable.
9. Test the system: Turn the ignition to ON and listen for the fuel pump priming sound. Attempt to start the engine. If it starts and runs smoothly, the replacement was successful.

After installation, it is a good idea to verify that the fuel pressure is within specification using a fuel pressure gauge. Normal operating pressure for the 2006 Ion is around 50–60 psi, but always confirm with your service manual .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bypass the fuel pump relay in an emergency?

Yes, you can temporarily bypass a bad relay by using a fused jumper wire to connect the battery voltage terminal directly to the fuel pump supply terminal in the fuse box. This should only be done as a temporary fix to get the car home or to a shop, as it bypasses the safety control provided by the ECM and can cause the pump to run continuously .

Why does tapping on the fuse box sometimes make my car start?

If tapping the fuse box causes the car to start, it is a strong sign that the fuel pump relay has loose or corroded internal contacts. The physical jarring can temporarily restore contact, but the relay is likely near the end of its life and should be replaced soon .

Can a bad fuel pump relay cause problems only when the engine is hot?

Yes. Heat expansion can worsen internal faults in the relay, such as cracked solder joints or worn contacts. Some cars start fine when cold but fail after the engine bay heats up on a long drive .

What is the difference between the fuel pump relay and the fuel pump fuse?

The fuse protects the circuit from overcurrent and will blow if there is a short to ground. The relay is a switch that controls when the pump gets power. If the fuse is blown, the pump will also not operate, but the fix is to replace the fuse, not the relay. Check both when diagnosing a no-start condition .

Where can I buy a replacement fuel pump relay?

Fuel pump relays are available at any auto parts store, online retailers, or directly from GM dealers. The genuine GM part for the 2006 Ion is a multi-use relay; part numbers include 13503102 and 19118886 . Aftermarket relays are generally less expensive and work just as well.

Recommended Fuel Pump from KEMSO

If your diagnosis reveals that the fuel pump itself—not just the relay—needs replacement, consider upgrading to a high-quality aftermarket unit. KEMSO offers a range of high-performance fuel pumps designed as OEM replacements for popular vehicles, including the Saturn Ion series. Every KEMSO fuel pump is built to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, ensuring reliable fuel delivery and consistent pressure under all driving conditions. Each unit comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected for as long as you own the vehicle. KEMSO pumps are bench-tested for flow rate and durability, making them a smart choice for daily drivers, weekend racers, and off-road enthusiasts alike. Visit the official KEMSO website to browse their full catalog and find the correct pump for your 2006 Saturn Ion: https://www.kemsoracing.com/.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the 2006 Saturn Ion fuel pump relay location saves you time and money when your car refuses to start. The relay sits in the underhood fuse box on the driver's side, clearly labeled in most cases. Testing it takes five minutes with a multimeter, and replacement is a simple plug-and-play operation that anyone can perform with basic hand tools. Start with the relay before suspecting more expensive components. If the relay checks out and the pump still does not run, move on to checking the fuse, the wiring, and finally the pump itself. And when the time comes to replace the fuel pump, choose a brand with a proven track record—visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ for KEMSO's lineup of durable, warrantied fuel pumps that fit your Saturn Ion perfectly.