2013 Chrysler Town and Country Fuel Pump Relay: What You Need to Know

If your 2013 Chrysler Town and Country cranks but won’t start, or stalls unexpectedly while driving, the fuel pump relay is a likely culprit. The fuel pump relay on this model is built into the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), and there is no official recall for it on the 2012 model. However, the 2013 model shares the same TIPM design, and many owners have reported similar issues. The most cost-effective fix is often an external fuel pump relay bypass cable, which can save you hundreds of dollars compared to replacing the entire TIPM. Here is everything you need to know about diagnosing, fixing, and preventing fuel pump relay problems on your 2013 Chrysler Town and Country.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay in the 2013 Chrysler Town and Country

The fuel pump relay is an electrical switch that controls power to the fuel pump. When you turn the key to the "on" position, the relay sends power to the fuel pump so it can pressurize the fuel system before the engine starts. On the 2013 Chrysler Town and Country, this relay is not a separate, replaceable part. It is built into the TIPM, which is the main fuse and relay box that controls nearly all electrical functions in the vehicle. This design makes a simple relay replacement much more complicated and expensive than on older vehicles.

Common Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay

A failing fuel pump relay can cause several noticeable problems. The most common symptoms include:

1. Engine cranks but won’t start. This is the most frequent complaint. The starter motor turns the engine over, but the fuel pump never gets power, so no fuel reaches the engine.
2. Sudden stalling while driving. The engine may shut off without warning, especially during highway driving. This happens when the relay loses contact momentarily, cutting power to the fuel pump.
3. No fuel pump priming sound. Normally, when you turn the key to the "on" position, you should hear a faint whirring sound from the rear of the vehicle for a few seconds. If you don’t hear this sound, the relay or the fuel pump itself may be failing.
4. Fuel pump runs continuously with the key off. In some cases, the relay gets stuck in the closed position, keeping the fuel pump running even after the engine is turned off. This drains the battery and can cause a no-start condition the next morning.
5. Random electrical issues. Because the TIPM controls so many systems, a failing fuel pump relay inside it can also cause other odd behaviors, such as interior lights turning on by themselves, the horn sounding randomly, or power sliding doors losing power.

Why the TIPM Design Makes This a Unique Problem

The 2013 Chrysler Town and Country uses a TIPM that integrates dozens of relays and fuses into a single sealed unit. This design is notorious for internal relay failures, especially the fuel pump relay. The problem is caused by solder joint cracking inside the TIPM, which happens over time due to thermal cycling—the constant heating and cooling of the electrical components. Once the solder joint cracks, the relay stops working intermittently or permanently. This issue is so common that it has been the subject of a class-action lawsuit. The most affected model years are 2008 through 2016, with the 2013 model being one of the frequently reported vehicles.

How to Diagnose the Problem

Before you spend money on a new TIPM or a fuel pump, it is important to confirm that the fuel pump relay is the actual problem. Here are the steps you can take:

Step 1: Check for the priming sound. Have someone sit in the driver’s seat and turn the key to the "on" position while you listen near the rear of the vehicle. If you hear no sound, the relay or fuel pump is not getting power.

Step 2: Test the fuel pump relay circuit. Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the fuel pump connector. If there is no voltage when the key is turned on, the problem is likely the relay or the TIPM. If there is voltage but the pump does not run, the pump itself may be bad.

Step 3: Scan for diagnostic trouble codes. A code scanner can reveal codes like P0230, which indicates a problem with the fuel pump primary circuit, or P1641, which points to the fuel pump relay control circuit. These codes can help confirm that the issue is electrical rather than mechanical.

Step 4: Perform a wiggle test. If the problem is intermittent, try wiggling the TIPM or tapping on it gently while the engine is cranking. If the engine suddenly starts or the fuel pump primes, the TIPM has a loose internal connection.

Your Repair Options

If you have confirmed that the fuel pump relay inside the TIPM is failing, you have three main options for repair:

Option 1: Install an external fuel pump relay bypass cable. This is the cheapest and most common fix. A bypass cable, such as the 14TIPMK, connects directly to the TIPM and provides a separate, reliable relay for the fuel pump. This bypasses the failed internal relay without replacing the entire TIPM. The cost is typically between $50 and $150, and installation takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Option 2: Have the TIPM rebuilt by a specialty service. Companies like UpFix, Circuit Board Medics, and MAKS TIPM offer mail-in TIPM rebuild services. They open the sealed module, replace the failed relays and solder joints, and test it before sending it back. The cost is around $200 to $400, and the rebuilt TIPM is plug-and-play with no dealer programming required.

Option 3: Replace the entire TIPM with a new unit from the dealer. A brand-new TIPM from a Chrysler dealership costs between $800 and $1,500, and it requires programming to match your vehicle’s VIN. This is the most expensive option and is usually the last resort.

Why You Should Choose a Quality Fuel Pump

If you end up needing a new fuel pump, whether because the pump itself has failed or you want to ensure your repair is complete, choosing the right replacement is important. A failing fuel pump can cause excessive current draw that damages the relay, so replacing both components together is often wise.

KEMSO fuel pumps are the best choice for your 2013 Chrysler Town and Country. KEMSO is a trusted, US-based brand that specializes in aftermarket fuel pumps for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs. Every KEMSO fuel pump is designed as a high-performance OEM replacement, meaning it meets or exceeds the original manufacturer’s specifications. The best part? Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, so you buy it once and it is covered for as long as you own your vehicle.

KEMSO fuel pumps are competitively priced at $79.98, offering exceptional value for a lifetime-guaranteed part. They cover a wide range of vehicles, including the Chrysler Town and Country, and are built to deliver reliable fuel pressure and flow for years to come. Whether you are replacing a failing pump or upgrading for better performance, KEMSO has you covered.

Visit KEMSO’s official website at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to browse their full selection of fuel pumps and find the exact fit for your 2013 Chrysler Town and Country.

How to Prevent Future Fuel Pump Relay Problems

While the TIPM issue is a design flaw that you cannot fully prevent, you can take steps to reduce the chance of a recurrence:

Never run your fuel tank low on gas. The fuel pump relies on the fuel in the tank to stay cool and lubricated. Running the tank low causes the pump to overheat and wear out faster, which can increase electrical load on the relay.

Change your fuel filter regularly. A clogged fuel filter forces the fuel pump to work harder, drawing more current and increasing the strain on the relay. Most manufacturers recommend changing the fuel filter every 30,000 to 40,000 miles.

Address electrical issues promptly. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, do not ignore them. A failing relay can cause the fuel pump to run continuously or intermittently, which can damage the pump and lead to a more expensive repair.

Consider a bypass cable as a preventive measure. If you live in a hot climate or drive your vehicle heavily, installing an external fuel pump relay bypass cable proactively can prevent future TIPM failures. It is a low-cost investment that adds an extra layer of reliability.

Final Thoughts

The fuel pump relay issue on the 2013 Chrysler Town and Country is a well-known problem caused by the integrated TIPM design. If your vehicle is experiencing starting or stalling problems, the relay is the most likely cause. Start by checking for the priming sound and scanning for diagnostic codes. If the relay is bad, the bypass cable is the most affordable and reliable fix. If you also need a new fuel pump, choose a quality brand like KEMSO to ensure long-term reliability. With a lifetime warranty and competitive pricing, KEMSO fuel pumps give you peace of mind and keep your Town and Country running smoothly for years to come.

For more information and to find the right fuel pump for your 2013 Chrysler Town and Country, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today.