2008 Chrysler Sebring Fuel Pump Relay Location: Where to Find It and How to Test It
The bottom line up front: On a 2008 Chrysler Sebring, the fuel pump relay is not a stand-alone unit you can spot under the hood. It is built into the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which sits on the left side of the engine compartment near the air cleaner assembly. You cannot physically swap just the relay, but you can test it and, if needed, install a bypass kit to restore fuel delivery. The relay—along with the ASD/Main relay and several fuses—works together to send power from the battery to the fuel pump located inside the fuel tank.
If your Sebring cranks but will not start, or if it stalls suddenly, a faulty fuel pump relay inside the TIPM is one of the most common culprits. This article will walk you through the exact location of the TIPM, how to identify the fuel pump relay and related fuses, how to test the relay, and what to do if it fails.
Where the Fuel Pump Relay Actually Lives
On the 2008 Sebring, Chrysler consolidated all the major relays and fuses into one sealed unit called the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). The TIPM is located on the left side of the engine compartment (when you stand in front of the car facing the engine). On many models you will find it near the air cleaner housing.
Inside the TIPM, you will not find a traditional plug-in relay for the fuel pump. Instead, the fuel pump relay is a miniature relay soldered onto the circuit board inside the module. That is important because it changes how you diagnose and fix relay problems.
To access the TIPM:
- Open the hood and secure it.
- Look toward the left fender (the driver's side in U.S. models).
- Locate the black plastic box with a removable cover. It typically sits behind or beside the battery and the air filter box.
- Remove the cover by releasing the latch or prying it off gently. On the inside of the cover, there is a label that identifies each fuse and relay cavity.
Fuses and Relay Assignments for the Fuel Pump
The fuel pump is protected by an Auto Shutdown (ASD) relay, and the pump's power feed runs through several fuses. On the 2008 Sebring, the relevant assignments inside the TIPM are:
- Cavity 18 (40A Green): Battery feed to the ASD relay contact
- Cavity 32 (30A Pink): ASD relay feed #1
- Cavity 26 (15A Lt. Blue): ASD relay feed #2
- Cavity 23 (15A Lt. Blue): ASD relay feed #3
- Cavity 16 (15A Lt. Blue): Ignition run/acc for the cigar lighter and sunroof—this circuit is separate from the fuel pump but shows how the TIPM assigns multiple functions
The fuel pump receives its control signal from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The wiring diagram for the 2.4L engine shows a "Fuel pump ctrl out" line from the PCM going to the fuel pump module inside the tank, powered through the ASD relay.
If you are looking for a physical "fuel pump relay" that you can pull out with your fingers, you will not find one on the 2008 Sebring. That is a common point of confusion for owners used to older cars.
How the Fuel Pump Relay Works
The relay's job is simple: when you turn the key to the ON position, the PCM energizes the ASD relay coil. That closes the relay contacts and sends battery voltage to the fuel pump. The pump then pressurizes the fuel rail so the engine can start. While the engine is running, the relay stays closed and keeps power flowing.
When the relay fails, one of two things happens:
- The relay contacts wear out and stop closing, so the pump never turns on.
- The relay coil gets weak and does not energize, causing intermittent starting.
The failure is often internal. Because the relay is soldered inside the TIPM, you cannot simply pull it out and replace it like a blade fuse.
Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay
If you suspect the relay, watch for these warning signs:
- Engine cranks but will not start. This is the most reliable indicator that the pump is not getting power.
- Intermittent stalling. The engine may run for a few minutes, then die suddenly as if someone turned off the ignition.
- No fuel pump prime. When you turn the key to ON (without cranking), you should hear a brief whirring sound from the fuel tank area. If you do not hear it, the pump is not receiving power.
- Long cranking time. The engine takes several seconds of cranking before it starts because the pump only builds pressure intermittently.
- The fuel pump fuse blows repeatedly. While the fuse and relay are separate components, a failing relay can cause current spikes that pop the fuse.
These symptoms also overlap with a failing fuel pump itself. So before you replace any parts, you need to confirm whether the problem is electrical or mechanical.
How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay Circuit
You can verify whether the relay is sending power without removing the TIPM. Here is a step-by-step diagnostic:
Step 1: Listen for the Pump Prime
Turn the key to the ON/RUN position but do not crank the engine. Listen near the rear of the car (under the back seat or near the fuel tank). You should hear the electric fuel pump hum for 2 to 3 seconds. If you hear nothing, move to Step 2.
Step 2: Check Fuses First
Open the TIPM cover and inspect the ASD-related fuses, especially cavity 18 (40A), cavity 32 (30A), and cavity 26 (15A). A burnt fuse is easy to spot—you will see a break in the metal strip. Replace any blown fuse with the same rating.
Step 3: Test for Voltage at the Fuel Pump
The fuel pump electrical connector is on top of the fuel tank. On the 2008 Sebring, you can reach the pump through a service access panel under the rear seat—you do not need to drop the fuel tank for access. Remove the rear seat cushion, lift the cover plate, and disconnect the pump harness. With the key in the ON position, use a multimeter to check for 12 volts at the pump connector. If there is no voltage, the problem is likely the relay or the wiring.
Step 4: Check for Relay Buzz
If you have an assistant, have them turn the key to ON while you listen near the TIPM. A working relay will make a faint click or buzz. No sound at all means the relay is not engaging.
Step 5: Verify Fuel Pressure
Attach a fuel pressure gauge to the test port on the fuel rail. The system should read between 55 and 62 psi with the key ON and the pump running. Low or zero pressure confirms the pump is not receiving power or the pump itself is dead.
What to Do If the Relay Fails
Because the relay is built into the TIPM, you have two repair options:
Option 1: Replace the Entire TIPM
This is the dealership-approved fix. A new or remanufactured TIPM will restore the relay function along with all other power distribution. The downside is cost—a TIPM can be expensive, and the replacement requires reprogramming in some cases.
Option 2: Install a Fuel Pump Relay Bypass Kit
A cheaper and very common fix is a bypass harness that connects the fuel pump directly to battery power through an external relay. You remove the M25 fuel pump fuse from the TIPM, insert a bypass cable into that slot, and connect the ring terminal to a positive power source. An external relay (included in the kit) controls the circuit.
This bypass is a permanent fix and has been widely used by Chrysler owners to resolve TIPM relay failures without replacing the entire module. It restores reliable power to the fuel pump and avoids repeated stalling.
Where Is the Fuel Pump Itself?
For context, the fuel pump is mounted inside the fuel tank. On the 2008 Sebring, there are two fuel pump modules on cars with saddle fuel tanks (usually all-wheel-drive models): one on the top left side and one on the top right side of the tank. On front-wheel-drive models, there is a single pump module, accessible under the rear seat.
When you are checking the relay, remember that the relay only controls power delivery—the pump itself does the work. If the pump is mechanical failing, you may hear a loud whine or see pressure fluctuate even when power is constant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Replacing the fuel pump before testing the relay. Many owners spend money on a new pump only to find the relay was the issue. Always verify power at the pump first.
- Ignoring the ASD relay. The ASD relay controls more than the fuel pump—it also feeds the ignition coils and injectors. If the relay fails, the engine will not start even if the pump works.
- Assuming the TIPM is dead. Before you replace the entire TIPM, try the bypass method. It is much cheaper and has a high success rate.
- Using the wrong fuse rating. Always check the label on the TIPM cover. Installing a higher amp fuse can damage the wiring.
When to Call a Professional
If you tested the relay and fuses, verified there is voltage at the pump, and the pump still does not run, you may have a wiring issue between the TIPM and the fuel tank. Tracing wires on modern cars requires a wiring diagram and sometimes special tools. In that case, it is wise to bring the car to a certified mechanic.
Also, if you are not comfortable working around the fuel system—gasoline is extremely flammable—do not attempt repairs on your own. Fuel pressure must be relieved before you disconnect any lines, and proper safety gear is essential.
KEMSO Fuel Pump: A Smart Replacement Choice
If your diagnostics point to a failing fuel pump rather than a relay issue, you will need a reliable replacement. KEMSO makes high-quality fuel pumps that are designed to meet or exceed original equipment (OEM) specifications. Their pumps deliver consistent fuel flow, withstand heat and pressure, and come with a lifetime warranty for long-term peace of mind.
KEMSO is known for producing performance-grade fuel pumps that fit seamlessly into vehicles like the Chrysler Sebring. They offer direct replacements with no modifications needed, making installation straightforward. If you want a pump that will not let you down on the road, check out the KEMSO product line.
Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to see their full range of fuel pumps for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and more. Whether you drive a Sebring, a BMW, a Subaru, or a Sea-Doo, KEMSO has a fuel pump built to last. Their best-selling products include options for popular vehicles like the BMW R1200GS Adventure, the Honda CBR1000RR, and the Subaru Impreza—all backed by the same commitment to quality and durability.
Final Thoughts
The fuel pump relay on a 2008 Chrysler Sebring is not a simple plug-in part. It lives inside the Totally Integrated Power Module on the left side of the engine bay. Because it is soldered into the module, your options are to test the circuit, install an external bypass, or replace the TIPM entirely. Always start with the easiest checks—fuses, voltage, and pump prime—before spending money on parts.
Most relay failures manifest as a no-start or intermittent stalling condition. By following the steps above, you can determine whether the relay is the culprit or if you need to look deeper into the fuel pump itself. And if the pump needs replacing, trust a brand that stands behind its products. KEMSO offers OEM-replacement pumps with a lifetime warranty, and you can find the right model for your Sebring at https://www.kemsoracing.com/.