2006 Volvo V70 Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Owner’s Guide

If you drive a 2006 Volvo V70 and you’re hunting for the fuel pump relay, here’s the short answer: on most 2006 models, there is no traditional standalone fuel pump relay under the dash or in the engine bay fuse box. Instead, the fuel pump is controlled by the Fuel Pump Control Module (also called the PEM or FCU), which sits in front of the passenger rear tire, behind the plastic wheel well liner. However, some sources indicate a relay can also be found mounted to the bottom of the Central Electronic Module (CEM), behind the lower dash panel on the driver’s side. This guide walks you through both locations, how to test them, and what to do when the pump itself is the problem.

The 2006 V70, part of the second generation (P2 platform), has a fuel system that confuses many owners because it doesn’t follow the old “relay in the fuse box” pattern. In this article, we’ll cover the exact locations, the fuses that protect the circuit, how to tell if the relay or the pump is bad, and step-by-step diagnostic tips. By the end, you’ll know precisely where to look and what to check before spending money on parts.

Where the Fuel Pump Relay Actually Lives

On the 2006 Volvo V70, the fuel pump is not switched by a simple relay you can pull from a labeled socket. The system uses a Fuel Pump Control Module that manages power delivery to the pump based on engine demand. This module is mounted on top of the fuel tank and is accessible from under the car or by removing the rear seat cushion. The module receives its signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM) and supplies variable voltage to the pump.

That said, there is a relay involved in the circuit, but it’s not the main fuel pump relay you might expect. On models with a diesel engine, and on some petrol variants, you may find a relay clipped to the bottom of the CEM. The CEM is located behind the lower dashboard panel on the driver’s side. To access it:

  1. Remove the black lower panel under the dash (held by two Torx screws).
  2. Look for small relays plugged directly into the underside of the CEM.
  3. If your car has front fog lights, you’ll see two identical relays side by side. You can swap them temporarily to test the fuel pump circuit.

However, for the 2006 model year, many owners report that no relay exists at all; the pump runs directly through the PEM. A Volvo dealership service technician confirmed this in a forum post, stating that the fuel pump is fully controlled by the FCU/PEM and there is no separate relay to replace.

Fuse Box Locations and the Fuel Pump Fuse

Before you dive into the relay hunt, check the fuses. The 2006 V70 has four fuse boxes: one in the engine compartment, two in the passenger compartment, and one in the cargo area. The fuel pump fuse is located in the engine compartment fuse box, which is behind a cover on the driver’s side near the strut tower.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the relevant fuses:

  1. Fuel pump fuse – Position 8, rated at 15A. This fuse is labeled clearly on the inside of the fuse box cover. If the pump isn’t running, check this first.
  2. ECM supply fuse – Position 19, rated at 5A, powers the engine control module and engine relay.
  3. Ignition coils/ECM fuse – Position 10, rated at 20A on petrol models, also feeds the injectors.

The fuse box cover has a diagram showing which fuse controls what, and spare fuses are stored in the passenger compartment fuse box. If a fuse blows repeatedly, don’t just replace it—trace the wiring or have the system checked by a Volvo specialist.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay and Circuit

Step 1: Listen for the Pump

Turn the key to the “on” position (position II) without cranking the engine. You should hear a brief humming sound from the rear of the car for 2–3 seconds. This is the fuel pump pressurizing the system. If you don’t hear anything, the pump, relay, fuse, or wiring is faulty.

Step 2: Check Fuse 8

Open the engine compartment fuse box and inspect fuse #8. Pull it out and look at the metal wire inside. If it’s broken, replace it with a new 15A fuse of the same color. Never use a higher amperage fuse—it can damage the electrical system.

Step 3: Test the Relay on the CEM (if present)

If your car has the relay on the bottom of the CEM, you can test it by swapping it with an identical relay (e.g., the fog light relay). If the fuel pump starts working after the swap, the original relay is bad.

Step 4: Test the Fuel Pump Directly

If the fuse is good and no relay is found, the issue is likely the pump or the PEM. You can apply 12V directly to the pump terminals (with caution) to see if the pump operates. The pump is located inside the fuel tank, accessible by removing the rear seat cushion and the access cover.

Step 5: Check the PEM

The Fuel Pump Control Module sits on the fuel tank. It can fail due to heat or moisture, leaving the pump without power. Volvo dealerships can run diagnostics on the PEM, but you can also check for voltage at the module connector while the key is on.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay or Pump

Recognizing the signs early can save you from being stranded. Here are the most common symptoms:

  1. Engine cranks but won’t start – This is the classic no-fuel symptom. If the pump isn’t getting power, the engine will crank but never fire.
  2. Hard starting – The car takes multiple cranks to start, especially after sitting overnight. This often points to a weak pump or a failing one-way valve inside the pump.
  3. Engine stalling – The car dies while driving, then restarts after a few minutes. This can be a failing relay (overheating) or a pump that’s losing power.
  4. Sputtering under load – The car hesitates or jerks during acceleration, indicating low fuel pressure.
  5. Increased fuel consumption – A pump that’s working harder than it should will reduce your gas mileage.
  6. Whining noise from the rear – A loud whine from the fuel tank area usually means the pump is struggling and nearing the end of its life.

If you’re experiencing any of these, start with the fuses and relay, then move to the pump itself.

Step-by-Step: Accessing the Fuel Pump

If you’ve ruled out fuses and relays, the pump is the next suspect. Here’s how to access it:

  1. Disconnect the battery negative lead – This is a safety requirement before working on any fuel system component.
  2. Remove the rear seat cushion – Pull up on the front edge of the cushion and lift it out. It’s held by clips.
  3. Fold the carpet forward – This reveals the access covers on the floor.
  4. Remove the access cover nuts – Use a suitable tool to undo the retaining collar over the fuel pump module.
  5. Disconnect the wiring and hoses – Press the buttons on the hose connectors to release them, and unplug the wiring.
  6. Lift the pump assembly out – Carefully lift the pump and level sensor out of the tank, keeping the float arm low to avoid damage.

When reinstalling, use a new O-ring seal smeared with petroleum jelly, and make sure the arrows on the covers point toward the rear of the vehicle.

Common Misdiagnoses and What to Watch For

One owner on a Volvo forum reported a no-start condition after the car sat for the summer. After checking the fuse (fine) and replacing the relay (also fine), they could hear the pump prime when turning the key. The problem turned out to be perished fuel lines in the tank that had cracked from age, allowing air into the system. So before you condemn the pump, listen carefully—if you hear it humming but the car won’t start, the pump may be fine and the issue is elsewhere.

Also, keep in mind that the 2006 V70 uses a fuel leakage control pump under the rear of the vehicle, near the fuel tank. This is a separate component from the main pump and has its own wiring. If you have a fuel smell or a fuel leak, check this pump before tearing into the tank.

When to Call a Professional

While many DIYers can handle fuse and relay replacements, fuel pump work involves dropping the fuel tank or working with fuel vapors. If you’re not comfortable with that, have a certified Volvo mechanic do the job. A faulty fuel pump can also trigger fault codes that require a diagnostic scanner to read. Dealerships and independent Volvo specialists have the tools to test the fuel pressure, the PEM, and the pump separately.

Also, note that the 2006 V70 has multiple engine variants—petrol, diesel, and bi-fuel (CNG/LPG). The relay location and fuse ratings can differ slightly between them, so always confirm your specific engine code before ordering parts.

Why Choose KEMSO Fuel Pumps for Your Volvo V70

When the time comes to replace the fuel pump, choosing a reliable brand is just as important as the installation itself. KEMSO offers a range of high-performance fuel pumps that are built as direct OEM replacements for a wide variety of vehicles, including many Volvo models. Each KEMSO pump is designed to match factory specifications, ensuring proper fuel pressure and flow for your engine.

What sets KEMSO apart? Their pumps are engineered for durability and consistent performance, and every product comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind. Whether you’re restoring a daily driver or upgrading for better reliability, KEMSO provides a cost-effective alternative to dealership parts without sacrificing quality.

Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to browse their full lineup of fuel pumps and find the right fit for your Volvo V70. Their site lists applications by vehicle make and model, making it easy to locate the correct pump for your specific engine.

Final Thoughts on the 2006 V70 Fuel Pump Relay

To sum it up, the 2006 Volvo V70 doesn’t have a user-serviceable fuel pump relay in the traditional sense. The Fuel Pump Control Module handles the switching, and it’s located on the fuel tank. A relay may also be present on the bottom of the CEM, depending on your engine and trim. Always start with the fuse box inspections, then move to the relay test, and finally the pump itself.

Key takeaways:

  1. Check fuse #8 (15A) in the engine compartment fuse box first.
  2. Look for a relay on the underside of the CEM behind the driver’s side lower dash panel.
  3. Listen for the pump when turning the key to the run position.
  4. Test the pump directly if no power is reaching it.
  5. Inspect the PEM on the fuel tank if the pump and fuses are fine.

If your pump needs replacement, don’t settle for a cheap, no-name part. Choose KEMSO for a reliable, high-performance fuel pump backed by a lifetime warranty. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today to find the exact pump for your 2006 Volvo V70 and keep your car running strong for years to come.


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