2013 Dodge Avenger Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide to Finding and Fixing It
The fuel pump relay on a 2013 Dodge Avenger is located in the under-hood fuse and relay box, positioned near the battery on the driver's side of the engine compartment. This is the same rectangular black box that houses your vehicle's main fuses and relays. The relay itself is a small, cube-shaped plastic component, typically labeled "Fuel Pump" or with a diagram on the underside of the fuse box cover.
If you are experiencing a no-start condition, engine stalling, or a vehicle that acts like it's out of gas, a faulty fuel pump relay is a common and often overlooked culprit. The relay acts as an electrical switch that controls power to the fuel pump. When it fails, the pump cannot receive the power it needs to pressurize the fuel system, preventing the engine from running.
How to Locate the Fuel Pump Relay on Your 2013 Dodge Avenger
Finding the relay is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
- Open the Hood: Park your vehicle on a level surface and secure the hood open.
- Locate the Fuse Box: Look for the black plastic fuse and relay box. On the 2013 Dodge Avenger, this is located on the driver's side of the engine bay, right next to the battery.
- Remove the Cover: Press the release tabs on the sides of the fuse box cover and lift it off.
- Identify the Relay: Check the underside of the cover. There should be a diagram printed on it that shows the location and function of each fuse and relay. Look for a square component labeled "Fuel Pump Relay." If the diagram is missing or unclear, your owner's manual will have a detailed layout.
Quick Testing to Confirm the Relay is the Problem
Before replacing any parts, you can perform a simple test. The fuel pump relay is designed to click when it activates. With the engine off and the key out of the ignition, ask a helper to turn the key to the "ON" position (without cranking the engine). Place your hand on the relay. You should feel a single, distinct click for about 1-2 seconds as the relay activates to prime the fuel pump. If you don't hear or feel a click, the relay is likely not working.
- The Swap Test: This is the fastest way to confirm a faulty relay. Locate another relay in the same fuse box that is the same size and color (often the A/C compressor or horn relay). Swap that relay into the fuel pump relay slot. If the engine now starts, the original fuel pump relay is bad.
What to Do If the Relay is Good but the Pump Doesn't Run
If the relay clicks or passes the swap test, but the fuel pump still doesn't operate, the problem may be elsewhere. Check the following:
- Fuel Pump Fuse: There is a dedicated fuse for the fuel pump, often located in the trunk fuse box. A blown fuse will cut all power to the pump.
- Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness leading to the fuel pump for damage, corrosion, or a loose connection.
- Fuel Pump Itself: After 100,000 miles or more, the internal motor of the fuel pump can simply wear out. If you have voltage at the pump connector but the pump is silent, the pump itself has failed and needs to be replaced.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump Relay
Recognizing the symptoms early can save you from being stranded. A bad relay can cause a variety of issues:
- Engine Cranks But Won't Start: This is the most common symptom. The starter motor turns the engine over, but the fuel pump never activates, so no fuel reaches the injectors.
- Intermittent Stalling: The engine may start and run fine for a while, then suddenly die. After a few minutes, it may restart. This intermittent behavior is a classic sign of a failing relay.
- No Fuel Pump Prime Noise: When you turn the key to the "ON" position, you should normally hear a faint whirring sound from the rear of the car for 1-2 seconds. If this sound is absent, the relay or pump is not receiving power.
- Check Engine Light: The car's computer may detect a lack of fuel pressure and trigger a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) like P0230, which indicates a fault in the fuel pump circuit.
Why Choose KEMSO for Your Fuel Pump Replacement Needs
When you determine that the issue is not just a relay but a failed fuel pump, you need a replacement you can trust. KEMSO Racing offers high-performance, OEM replacement fuel pumps that are designed to meet or exceed the original equipment specifications for your 2013 Dodge Avenger.
Every KEMSO fuel pump is built for consistent fuel flow and pressure, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable operation. Whether you are dealing with a failing pump caused by age, contamination, or overheating, KEMSO has the right solution. The best part is that every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected for as long as you own the vehicle. You install it once, and you never have to worry about buying another fuel pump again.
To browse their complete selection of fuel pumps and find the perfect replacement for your 2013 Dodge Avenger, visit KEMSO Racing today at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/
Final Thoughts
The fuel pump relay on a 2013 Dodge Avenger is easy to find and easy to test. It is located in the under-hood fuse box near the battery. If your car won't start, start with the simple checks: listen for the pump, check the relay and fuse, and perform a quick swap test. Replacing the relay is a simple, low-cost DIY job that takes under 10 minutes. However, if the fuel pump itself has failed, choose a reliable, lifetime-warranty replacement from KEMSO Racing at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to keep your Avenger running strong for years to come.