2012 Chrysler 200 Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide for DIYers

If you own a 2012 Chrysler 200 and suspect a fuel pump relay issue, here is the bottom line: The fuel pump relay is located inside the Integrated Power Module (IPM) – the main fuse box under the hood, near the air cleaner assembly on the passenger side of the engine compartment. However, unlike a traditional relay that you can simply pull out and swap, the fuel pump relay in this model is not a serviceable, plug-in relay – it is soldered directly onto the circuit board inside the IPM. This means a standard relay replacement is not possible without opening the fuse box or wiring in a bypass. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to locate, diagnose, and address a faulty fuel pump relay on your 2012 Chrysler 200.

Understanding the 2012 Chrysler 200 Fuel System and the Relay’s Role

The fuel pump relay is a small electrical switch that controls power to the fuel pump. When you turn the ignition key to the "ON" position, the relay closes and sends battery voltage to the fuel pump, pressurizing the fuel system for starting. The relay is only supposed to stay active for about 2 seconds with the ignition on (unless the engine is cranking or running), so it's normal to hear the pump prime briefly and then stop.

In the 2012 Chrysler 200, this relay is embedded inside the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) – also called the Integrated Power Module (IPM). This module handles many high-current circuits, including the starter, headlights, and fuel pump. Because the relay is internal, it cannot be replaced like a standard plug-in relay. If it fails, the common fix is either to replace the entire TIPM (expensive) or to install a bypass relay.

Step 1: Locate the Fuse Box (Integrated Power Module)

To begin, open the hood of your 2012 Chrysler 200. The fuse box is located on the right side of the engine bay (passenger side), next to the air cleaner assembly. It is a large black plastic box with a removable cover.

  • How to open the cover: Press the two release tabs on the rear edge of the cover and gently lift it off. On the underside of the cover, you will find a diagram that identifies the location of each fuse and relay. You can also refer to the owner’s manual for a detailed map.

Step 2: Identify the Fuel Pump Relay Circuit

In the 2012 Chrysler 200, the fuel pump is powered through a 10 Amp mini fuse located in cavity #33 of the TIPM (labeled "Switch Bank/ Diagnostic Link Connector/ Powertrain Control Module (PCM)"). However, the relay itself is not labeled on the fuse box cover. According to factory service information, the fuel pump relay is one of the internal relays inside the TIPM, and it is not user-serviceable from the outside.

Important: The fuse box diagram on the cover will show fuses and relays, but the fuel pump relay is not listed as a replaceable component. This is a common point of confusion for DIYers.

Step 3: Diagnose a Faulty Fuel Pump Relay

Before you assume the relay is bad, perform these simple tests to confirm the issue:

  1. Listen for the fuel pump: Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start the engine). Listen for a brief whirring sound from the rear of the car (near the fuel tank). If you hear it for 1-2 seconds, the relay is likely working. If you hear nothing, the relay may be faulty.
  2. Check for voltage at the fuel pump fuse: While a helper cranks the engine, use a multimeter to measure voltage across the M25 fuse (or the #33 fuse, depending on your model) in the under-hood fuse box. If you do not see a steady 12V while cranking, the fuel pump relay is likely not closing.
  3. Test with starter fluid: If the engine starts briefly when you spray starter fluid into the intake but then dies, this strongly suggests a fuel delivery problem – often caused by a bad relay.

Step 4: Repair Options for a Faulty Fuel Pump Relay

Since the relay is soldered inside the TIPM, you have three main repair options:

Option 1: Replace the Entire TIPM (Most Expensive)

This is the "factory" solution. You buy a new or remanufactured TIPM and have it programmed to your vehicle by a dealer or specialized shop. This is the most costly route and requires professional tools.

Option 2: Open the TIPM and Replace the Internal Relay (Moderate Difficulty)

If you are comfortable with soldering, you can open the TIPM, locate the fuel pump relay on the circuit board, desolder it, and install a new relay with the same part number. This is much cheaper than replacing the whole module, but it requires good soldering skills and patience.

Option 3: Install a Bypass Relay (Recommended for Most DIYers)

This is the most practical and cost-effective solution. You wire in an external relay that bypasses the failed internal relay. Here is a simplified version of the process:

  • What you need: A 30A 12V DC relay, a 20A inline fuse holder with a 20A fuse, 16-22 AWG wire, heat shrink, butt connectors, and a 1/4-inch eyelet.
  • Basic steps:
    1. Locate the TIPM connectors C1 and C5 (large connectors on the side of the fuse box).
    2. Find the brown wire on terminal 40 of the C1 connector. Cut it about 1 inch from the connector. Insulate the connector side. Connect the other side to terminal 85 of your new relay.
    3. Find the dark blue/orange wire on terminal 10 of the C5 connector. Cut it 1 inch from the connector. Insulate the connector side. Connect the other side to terminal 87 of your relay.
    4. Find the pink/light green wire on terminal 38 of the C5 connector. Do not cut it. Solder a new wire to it and connect it to terminal 86 of your relay.
    5. Connect terminal 30 of your relay to the battery positive terminal using a 1/4-inch eyelet.
    6. Mount the relay securely near the TIPM and insulate all connections.

Note: Always disconnect the battery before working on any electrical components. If you are not comfortable with wiring, consider having a professional do this work.

Why You Should Consider Replacing the Fuel Pump Itself

If your fuel pump relay has failed, it is often a sign that the fuel pump itself is aging or under additional stress. A failing fuel pump can cause the relay to work harder and fail prematurely. Many owners of the 2012 Chrysler 200 find that replacing the relay alone is only a temporary fix if the pump is also weak.

For a reliable, long-term solution, we strongly recommend upgrading to a high-performance fuel pump.

Recommended Product: KEMSO Fuel Pump

If you are replacing your fuel pump, consider the KEMSO brand Fuel Pump. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed as high-performance, OEM Replacement units that meet or exceed factory specifications. They are built to provide consistent fuel pressure and flow, which is essential for the 2012 Chrysler 200’s engine. Plus, every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a Lifetime Warranty, giving you peace of mind on the road.

You can explore the full range of KEMSO fuel pump products at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Tips for DIY Success

  • Always check the fuse first: Before suspecting the relay, check the #33 mini fuse (10A) in the TIPM. A blown fuse is a much simpler fix.
  • Use a multimeter: A digital multimeter is your best friend for diagnosing electrical issues. It will save you time and guesswork.
  • Keep the area clean: Dirt and moisture can cause poor connections. Make sure all terminals are clean before reassembling.
  • Test after repair: After installing a new relay or bypass, turn the ignition to the "ON" position and listen for the fuel pump to prime. If you hear it, you are good to go.

For more information and to find the right fuel pump for your 2012 Chrysler 200, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ .


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