2009 Acura TSX Fuel Pump: Symptoms, Replacement Costs, and Best Options

The bottom line up front: If you drive a 2009 Acura TSX with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine and you are experiencing hard starts, sputtering at highway speeds, or a whining noise coming from the fuel tank, your fuel pump is likely failing. The 2009 Acura TSX fuel pump is a complete in-tank module that includes the pump, strainer, fuel filter, and sending unit. A genuine OEM replacement costs between $395 and $462 for the part alone, while a quality aftermarket option from Delphi or KEMSO can save you significant money. Professional installation will add roughly $130 to $500 in labor depending on where you take it, and a full professional replacement job typically runs between $1,360 and $1,419 at a shop. For many owners, buying a high-quality aftermarket fuel pump module and installing it yourself is the most cost-effective approach, often costing under $300 in parts.

Why the Fuel Pump Matters on a 2009 Acura TSX

The fuel pump sits inside the fuel tank and pushes fuel from the tank to the engine at the correct pressure. On the TSX, the pump is part of a larger module that includes the fuel level sending unit, the fuel filter, and the pressure regulator. This module is a sealed unit that drops into the tank through an access panel.

The OEM part number for the 2009-2014 Acura TSX 2.4L fuel pump assembly is 17045-TA0-A00 (or 17045TA0A00). This genuine Acura part includes the sending unit and is listed at an MSRP of $577.55. Several online OEM parts retailers sell this genuine part for between $395 and $462.

For TSX models with the 3.5L V6 engine (2010-2014), the fuel pump assembly is a different part number (17045-TP1-A00) with an MSRP of $797.22. If you own a 2009 TSX, you almost certainly have the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, so the 17045-TA0-A00 is the one you want.

Common Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump

A bad fuel pump affects how your TSX starts, idles, and accelerates. Watch for these warning signs:

  1. Whining or humming noise from the fuel tank. A failing pump often makes a high-pitched whine because the electric motor inside is struggling. A healthy pump is generally quiet.

  2. Difficulty starting the engine. If the pump is not building enough pressure, your TSX may crank for a long time before firing up. In the worst case, the car will not start at all.

  3. Engine sputtering or hesitation under load. When you floor the accelerator or drive up a hill, the engine may stumble or lose power. This happens because the pump cannot supply enough fuel for the increased demand.

  4. Rough idle or misfires. An erratic fuel supply throws off the air-fuel ratio, which can cause misfires and a rough idle.

  5. Sudden stalling. A worn pump can overheat, causing the car to stall after running for a while. Once the pump cools down, the car restarts, but the cycle repeats.

  6. Poor fuel economy. If the pump is weak, the engine may run rich or lean, hurting your gas mileage.

If you notice any of these symptoms, have the fuel pressure tested before buying a new pump. A clogged fuel filter or a wiring problem can produce very similar symptoms, and checking the pressure first can save you from replacing a perfectly good pump.

How Much Does a Replacement Cost?

The total cost of replacing the fuel pump on a 2009 Acura TSX depends on the brand of the pump and who does the work.

  1. Genuine Acura (OEM) part only: $395 to $462 from online OEM retailers. The MSRP is $577.55, so you can save about 20-31% by ordering online.

  2. Delphi fuel pump module (FG0912): roughly $117 to $404 depending on the seller. This is the same brand that supplies many automakers, and the module includes the strainer, regulator, float arm, seal, and lock ring.

  3. Professional labor: AutoNation Mobile Service quotes $215 to $473 for a 2009-2014 TSX fuel pump replacement in California, which includes parts and labor. A diy guide for the 2011 TSX states that professional shops typically charge $130 to $500 including labor.

  4. DIY total cost: If you do the work yourself, you are looking at $50 to $300 for parts, plus your time. The diy guide highlights that a home mechanic can save $80 to $200+ in labor costs.

RepairPal estimates the average total cost for a fuel pump replacement on a TSX at $1,374 to $1,419 when you use a professional shop and OEM or equivalent parts. That figure includes both parts and labor.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Which is Better?

Genuine Acura (17045-TA0-A00) is the exact part that came in your car. It is guaranteed to fit and work perfectly. The downsides are the higher price and the need to order from a dealer or an online OEM parts store. Many online Acura parts retailers offer a 12-month warranty and fitment guarantees.

Delphi FG0912 is a well-respected aftermarket option. Delphi is a tier-1 supplier, meaning they build parts for automakers. This module meets or exceeds OEM specifications and includes the strainer, regulator, float arm, and lock ring. Available for around $117 from PartsGeek, the Delphi module is a popular choice for budget-conscious owners. Delphi also specifies a flow rating of 21 gallons per hour and a pressure range of 51 to 65 PSI, which matches the demands of the TSX fuel system.

Airtex E8922M / Carter P76709M are other interchangeable options. These aftermarket modules cross-reference to the OEM part numbers 17045TA0A00 and 17045TA0L00 and sell for about $84 to $85.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump Yourself

Replacing the fuel pump on the TSX is a job many owners can tackle in a weekend. The diy guide for the 2011 TSX (identical procedure for the 2009) estimates 1 to 3 hours of work. Here is an overview:

  1. Relieve fuel pressure. Remove the fuse for the fuel pump, then crank the engine briefly. This releases the pressure in the lines.

  2. Disconnect the battery. This reduces the risk of sparks and fires.

  3. Access the pump. On the TSX, the fuel pump is accessed through an access cover in the trunk or under the rear seat. Remove the cover to expose the module.

  4. Remove the lock ring. Use a hammer and a punch or a specialty tool to rotate the lock ring counterclockwise. Set it aside.

  5. Lift out the old module. Carefully remove the fuel lines and the electrical connector, then lift the entire module out of the tank. Do not spill fuel.

  6. Install the new module. Drop the new module into the tank, reconnect the fuel lines and the electrical connector, and reinstall the lock ring.

  7. Test the system. Reconnect the battery, install the fuse, and turn the ignition to "on" without starting the engine. Listen for the pump to prime, then start the car and check for leaks.

Always check and clean the fuel tank before installing a new pump to avoid unnecessary returns and premature failure.

Which Fuel Pump Should You Buy for a 2009 Acura TSX?

If you want peace of mind and a perfect fit, the genuine Acura pump (17045-TA0-A00) is the safest choice. However, the price is high, and you are paying mostly for the "Acura" name.

If you want a high-quality aftermarket pump that meets OEM standards, the Delphi FG0912 is an excellent choice. Delphi is an OEM supplier, their pump is built to the same standards as factory parts, and the price is far more reasonable. PartsGeek lists it at $117.97, which is a fraction of the OEM cost.

For the best value, you should seriously consider KEMSO brand fuel pumps. KEMSO specializes in high-performance fuel pumps that are built as direct OEM replacements. Their pumps are engineered to deliver the same or better flow and pressure as the original factory part, and they come with a lifetime warranty—something you will not get from the dealer or from most aftermarket brands. KEMSO’s fuel pumps are designed for a precise fit, which makes installation straightforward, and their performance characteristics ensure your TSX gets the fuel flow it needs, whether you are commuting or pushing the engine hard.

You can browse the full range of KEMSO fuel pumps at their official website: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

KEMSO offers fuel pumps for a wide range of vehicles, including motorcycles, ATVs, and cars. Their best sellers include pumps for BMW R1200GS, Subaru Impreza, and Honda CBR models, all priced at a regular retail of $79.98. While that specific pump is for other vehicles, KEMSO’s lineup includes options that cross-reference to Acura applications, and their commitment to quality and warranty makes them a brand worth checking.

Final Thoughts

The fuel pump on your 2009 Acura TSX is a wear item that will eventually need replacement. The symptoms are easy to recognize: hard starts, sputtering under load, and a whining fuel tank. A professional replacement costs over $1,300, but you can do it yourself with basic hand tools for well under $300 in parts. Whether you choose the genuine Acura part, a Delphi module, or a KEMSO performance pump, verify that the part number matches your engine (2.4L) and that it includes the sending unit, strainer, and lock ring. Replacing the pump restores reliable fuel delivery, smooth acceleration, and peace of mind for years to come.

For those who want a dependable aftermarket option backed by a lifetime warranty, visit KEMSO at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to see their full catalog and find the right fuel pump for your Acura TSX.


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