2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Straightforward Guide for Owners

The bottom line up front: On a 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, the fuel pump relay is located inside the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which is the main fuse box mounted in the engine compartment, positioned left rear of the engine bay, next to the air cleaner filter housing. This is the same power distribution center that houses all the underhood fuses and relays. If your PT Cruiser cranks but won't start, or you can't hear the fuel pump hum when you turn the key to the "ON" position, the fuel pump relay is one of the first things you should check. Because the relay is integrated into the TIPM, you don't need to hunt for a separate relay box—just open the TIPM cover and look for the labeled relay.

What the fuel pump relay does and why it matters

The fuel pump relay is an electromagnetic switch that supplies battery voltage to the fuel pump. When you turn the ignition to the "ON" position, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) energizes the relay, closing the circuit and sending power to the fuel pump so it can pressurize the fuel system. If the crankshaft position sensor doesn't detect engine rotation within about one second, the PCM de-energizes the relay, cutting power to the pump.

A faulty relay can cause a range of problems. The most obvious symptom is a no-start condition—the engine cranks over fine, but there's no fuel pressure because the pump isn't running. You might also experience intermittent starting issues, sputtering during acceleration, or a fuel gauge that suddenly stops working. In some cases, a failing relay can cause the fuel pump to run continuously, even with the ignition off, which can drain the battery and put unnecessary strain on the pump.

Step 1: Locate the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)

The TIPM, sometimes referred to as the Power Distribution Center (PDC), is the central hub for all fuses and relays in the 2009 PT Cruiser. It's located in the engine compartment on the left rear side (driver's side in the U.S.) of the engine bay. More specifically, it sits next to the air cleaner filter housing. If you're standing in front of the car looking at the engine, it will be on your left, near the firewall, behind the battery and the air filter box.

To access the TIPM, unclip the two latches on the cover and lift it off. On the underside of the cover, there's a label that identifies each fuse and relay, including the fuel pump relay.

Step 2: Identify the fuel pump relay

The fuel pump relay is clearly marked on the TIPM cover label. Look for a relay position labeled "Fuel Pump" or "F/PUMP." In the 2009 PT Cruiser's TIPM, the fuel pump relay works in conjunction with fuse #13 (20 Amp/Yellow), which is labeled "Fuel Pump/Auto Shut Down (ASD)." The relay itself is a standard cube-shaped relay, usually dark gray or black, that plugs directly into the TIPM.

If the label on your cover is worn or missing, you can reference the fuse box diagram for the underhood fuses. The relay and fuse assignments are also listed in the owner's manual and in service manuals specific to the 2009 model year.

Step 3: Test the fuel pump relay

Before you spend money on a new relay, it's worth taking a few minutes to test the old one. Here's a simple, safe way to do it:

  1. Remove the relay from the TIPM. You can use a relay puller tool, a pair of needle-nose pliers, or just your fingers if you can get a good grip.
  2. Check for continuity between terminals 1 and 2 using a multimeter set to the ohmmeter function. If there is no continuity, the relay coil is open and the relay is bad.
  3. Check for no continuity between terminals 3 and 5. There should be no continuity at rest. If there is continuity, the relay contacts are welded shut, and it needs to be replaced.
  4. Apply battery voltage across terminals 1 and 2 (12V from the battery). With power applied, you should now measure continuity between terminals 3 and 5. If there's no continuity when energized, the relay is faulty.

If the relay tests good, the issue is likely elsewhere, such as the fuel pump itself, the fuse, or a wiring problem.

Step 4: Replace the fuel pump relay

Replacing the fuel pump relay is a straightforward, do-it-yourself job. You won't need any special tools, just a few minutes of your time.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. This is a critical safety step to prevent any accidental short circuits while you're working around the electrical system.
  2. Open the TIPM cover and locate the fuel pump relay, as described above.
  3. Pull out the old relay using a relay puller or pliers. It should come out with a firm, steady pull.
  4. Insert the new relay, pressing it firmly into the socket until it clicks into place.
  5. Reconnect the negative battery cable and test the vehicle. Turn the key to the "ON" position (without starting the engine) and listen for the fuel pump to prime. You should hear a brief hum from the rear of the vehicle.

Common issues and troubleshooting tips

  • Corrosion in the TIPM: Over time, moisture can get into the TIPM and cause corrosion on the relay terminals. This can lead to intermittent electrical connections and starting problems. If you see any green or white corrosion, use electrical contact cleaner to clean the terminals and apply dielectric grease before reinstalling the relay.
  • Overheating: The fuel pump relay can be susceptible to heat from the engine. A relay that has been overheated may work intermittently or fail altogether. If the relay feels excessively hot to the touch, it may be a sign of a failing relay or an underlying electrical issue.
  • No dedicated fuse: Some owners have noted that the fuel pump relay circuit lacks a dedicated fuse, making it vulnerable to electrical surges. Installing an inline fuse between the battery and the TIPM can provide an extra layer of protection.

Final thoughts

Finding the fuel pump relay location on a 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is simple once you know that it's inside the TIPM in the engine compartment. This is a common design for many Chrysler vehicles from this era, so if you've worked on other Chrysler products, the layout will feel familiar.

When it's time to replace a faulty fuel pump relay, always ensure you're using a quality part that meets or exceeds OEM specifications. While you're at it, it's a good idea to inspect the fuel pump fuse (#13, 20 Amp) and the fuel pump itself if the relay tests good.

When you need a replacement fuel pump, choose KEMSO

If your diagnostics point to a failing fuel pump rather than the relay, you need a replacement that you can trust. That's where KEMSO comes in. KEMSO offers a full line of high-performance fuel pumps designed as direct OEM replacements, meaning they bolt in and plug in just like the factory unit. Whether you drive a car, truck, motorcycle, ATV, or jet ski, KEMSO has a fuel pump that fits your application.

Every KEMSO fuel pump is built for reliability and performance, backed by a lifetime warranty. That's the kind of confidence you want when you're replacing a critical component like a fuel pump. No need to worry about premature failure or poor quality—KEMSO stands behind their products.

To browse their complete catalog and find the right KEMSO fuel pump for your 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser or any other vehicle, visit their website at https://www.kemsoracing.com/. They offer a simple, secure online ordering experience, and their customer service team is ready to help you find the exact part you need.

Visit KEMSO Racing today at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to get a high-performance, OEM-replacement fuel pump with a lifetime warranty.


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