2012 Chrysler 300 Fuel Pump Relay Location: Where to Find It and How to Replace It

The fuel pump relay on a 2012 Chrysler 300 is located inside the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which is the main fuse box mounted under the hood near the battery on the driver's side. Unlike older Chrysler models where the relay was a simple plug-in unit in the trunk, the 2012 Chrysler 300 integrates the fuel pump relay directly onto the circuit board inside the TIPM. This means you cannot simply pull out the relay and swap it like a standard fuse. If this relay fails, you will likely experience a crank-no-start condition, intermittent stalling, or no fuel pump priming noise when you turn the key. This guide explains exactly where the TIPM is located, how to confirm the relay is the problem, what symptoms to watch for, and what your repair options are, including a cost-effective external relay bypass. We also cover how to replace the fuel pump itself if that turns out to be the real culprit.

Where Exactly Is the Fuel Pump Relay on a 2012 Chrysler 300?

The 2012 Chrysler 300 uses a modern electrical distribution system called the TIPM. This unit replaces the traditional fuse box and relay panel. It is a sealed black plastic module located in the engine compartment, mounted close to the battery. To find it, open the hood and look for a rectangular black box with a cover that has a diagram printed on it. This diagram shows the location of every fuse and relay inside, including the fuel pump relay. However, what you will find is that the fuel pump relay is not a replaceable component like in older cars; it is soldered onto the internal circuit board of the TIPM . The fuse box cover will show you where the fuel pump fuse is (often labeled "FP" or "Fuel Pump"), and that fuse is serviceable, but the relay itself is internal. This design is shared across many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles from the late 2000s through the late 2010s, and it is a known weak point . For comparison, older models like the 2007 Chrysler 300 had a separate fuel pump relay located in the trunk-mounted fuse panel next to the battery, which was a standard replaceable relay . But on the 2012 model, the relay is buried inside the TIPM, making a direct replacement much more involved.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay

A failing fuel pump relay in the TIPM can mimic many other fuel system issues. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for when your 2012 Chrysler 300 starts acting up:

  1. Engine cranks but won't start. This is the classic sign. The starter motor turns the engine over fine, but since the fuel pump is not receiving power, no fuel reaches the injectors and the engine never fires up .
  2. No fuel pump priming noise. Turn the key to the "ON" position without starting the engine. You should hear a brief hum from the rear of the car for about 2-3 seconds as the fuel pump pressurizes the system. If you hear nothing, the relay is not sending power to the pump .
  3. Intermittent starting problems. The car may start fine for days, then suddenly refuse to start. This is typical of a relay whose internal contacts are worn and only work when the relay is cool .
  4. Engine stalls while driving. If the relay cuts out while the engine is running, the engine will die without warning. This can be dangerous, especially at highway speeds or in traffic .
  5. Battery drain. In some cases, a relay that fails stuck in the "closed" position will keep the fuel pump running even when the vehicle is off, draining the battery overnight .

How to Diagnose a Fuel Pump Relay Problem

Before you spend money on parts, you need to confirm that the fuel pump relay is actually the culprit. Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Listen for the fuel pump prime. Turn the key to the "ON" position and listen near the rear of the vehicle. If you hear no sound for about two seconds, the pump is not getting power .

Step 2: Test for voltage at the fuel pump fuse. Open the TIPM cover and find the fuel pump fuse. The diagram on the underside of the cover will help you locate it. Use a test light or multimeter to check if there is voltage at the fuse terminals when the key is turned to "ON." If there is no power, the relay inside the TIPM is likely bad .

Step 3: Check the fuel pressure. If you have a fuel pressure gauge, connect it to the test port on the fuel rail. Turn the key to "ON." You should see pressure rise to roughly 55-60 psi for a few seconds. If the pressure stays at zero, the pump is not running . Note that the 2012 Chrysler 200, a similar platform, also runs at similar pressure ranges, but always consult your specific service manual.

Step 4: Use a jumper wire for testing only. As a diagnostic step only, you can bypass the relay using a fused jumper wire. Refer to a wiring diagram for your vehicle to identify the correct terminals. Connect them temporarily. If the car starts, the relay is definitely the problem. Do not leave the jumper wire in place; it bypasses all safety systems and can be a fire hazard .

Your Repair Options for the TIPM Fuel Pump Relay

Once you confirm the relay is faulty, you have several repair paths. They range from a full TIPM replacement to a much more affordable external relay bypass.

Option 1: Install an External Fuel Pump Relay Bypass Kit ($50-$150)

This is the most popular and cost-effective solution for DIY owners. The bypass kit installs a new, independent relay outside the TIPM that takes over the job of the failed internal relay. You do not need to replace or reprogram the TIPM. A standard automotive relay (30/40A), a relay socket, an inline fuse holder with a 15A or 20A fuse, and some 14-16 gauge wiring are all you need. The installation involves disconnecting the battery, locating the fuel pump power wire and trigger wire, connecting the new relay's coil to the trigger wire, connecting the power contacts to a constant 12V source through the fuse, and connecting the output to the fuel pump power wire. This is a permanent fix that many owners and mechanics recommend .

Option 2: Have the TIPM Professionally Repaired ($150-$300)

Some electronics repair shops specialize in rebuilding TIPMs. They can replace the failed relay on the circuit board. This is cheaper than a new TIPM but requires removing the TIPM from the vehicle and sending it off for repair. Turnaround time can be several days .

Option 3: Replace the TIPM Entirely ($800-$1,500+)

This is the most expensive option. A brand-new TIPM from the dealer is costly, and it may need to be programmed to match your vehicle. This is generally the last resort .

Option 4: Temporarily Bypass with a Fuse Tap Cable ($25-$35)

This is a quick temporary fix. You use fuse taps to take power from an alternate fuse slot (like the run/start fuse) and feed it directly to the fuel pump fuse slot, bypassing the faulty relay. This should only be used to get the car running short-term, as bad connections can overheat and cause fires .

What About the Fuel Pump Itself?

Sometimes the problem is not the relay but the fuel pump. The fuel pump on a 2012 Chrysler 300 is located inside the fuel tank. On this model, you can access it through an access panel under the rear seat cushion on the left side of the vehicle, so you do not need to drop the fuel tank . If you suspect the pump is failing, look for these symptoms:

  1. Engine sputtering or hesitation at high speeds. The pump may not be delivering enough fuel pressure .
  2. Whining noise from the fuel tank. A failing pump often makes a loud whirring or humming sound from the rear of the car .
  3. Difficulty starting the engine. The engine may crank but take longer to start, or not start at all .
  4. Loss of power under stress. When climbing hills or carrying heavy loads, a bad pump cannot keep up .

If you need to replace the fuel pump on a 2012 Chrysler 300, the replacement cost at an independent shop typically ranges from $400 to $1,120, depending on the engine type and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts. At a dealership, expect to pay $800 to $1,285 or more . If you are handy, a DIY replacement costs between $140 and $270 for the parts alone . The fuel pump is sold as a complete module assembly that includes the pump, sending unit, float, and strainer. Aftermarket modules cost between $100 and $350, while OEM Mopar modules run $250 to $700 .

Recommended Replacement: KEMSO Fuel Pumps

When it comes time to replace your fuel pump, whether on the 2012 Chrysler 300 or any other vehicle, we strongly recommend choosing a high-quality aftermarket brand. For the best value and long-term reliability, consider a KEMSO Fuel Pump. KEMSO fuel pumps are high-performance, OEM replacement units designed to match or exceed factory specifications. They offer several key advantages over cheap generic pumps:

  • OEM-level quality with precise fitment for your vehicle
  • High-performance internals built to handle demanding driving conditions
  • Lifetime warranty that gives you peace of mind for as long as you own your car

Unlike budget pumps that may fail prematurely or cause erratic fuel gauge readings, a KEMSO pump is engineered to deliver consistent fuel pressure and quiet operation. Investing in a quality pump like KEMSO can save you from costly repeat repairs down the road. To explore KEMSO's full lineup of fuel pumps for your 2012 Chrysler 300 and other makes and models, visit their website at https://www.kemsoracing.com/. Their products are trusted by thousands of drivers across the United States who demand reliability and performance.

Final Thoughts

The fuel pump relay in your 2012 Chrysler 300 is a known weak point due to its integration into the TIPM. When it fails, you are not stuck with an expensive TIPM replacement. An external relay bypass is a proven, permanent, and inexpensive solution that takes about an hour to install . However, before you blame the relay, take the time to check the fuel pump itself, as the symptoms can be identical. Listen for the prime hum, test for voltage at the fuse, and check fuel pressure if possible. If you determine the fuel pump needs to be replaced, choose a reliable unit like a KEMSO fuel pump to ensure your Chrysler 300 keeps running smoothly for many more miles. For all your fuel pump needs, check out the selection at https://www.kemsoracing.com/.


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