2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel Pump Replacement: A Complete DIY Guide

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a challenging but doable DIY job that can save you between $600 and $800 compared to what a shop would charge. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, so the job requires dropping the tank from underneath the vehicle. If you are comfortable with basic mechanical work and have a full weekend to spare, you can complete this repair yourself. The shop cost for this job typically runs between $850 and $1,350, while doing it yourself costs only $250 to $550 for parts. A professional mechanic would charge around $100 to $150 per hour and take 3 to 5 hours to finish the job.

Signs Your Fuel Pump Is Failing

Before you start tearing things apart, make sure the fuel pump is actually the problem. A failing fuel pump on a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee will show clear symptoms. The most common signs include engine sputtering or hesitation during acceleration, difficulty starting the engine especially when the fuel tank is low, and reduced fuel economy. You may also hear a high-pitched whining or humming sound coming from the fuel tank area. In some cases, the engine will stall at idle or the check engine light will come on with codes related to low fuel pressure, such as P0087.

Important: Before assuming the pump is bad, check the fuel pump relay and fuse first. A bad relay can mimic a dead pump, and replacing it is much cheaper and easier.

Safety First: What You Need to Know Before Starting

Gasoline is highly flammable, so safety is the number one priority. Work outside or in a well-ventilated garage away from any sparks, heaters, cigarettes, or open flames. Keep a Class B fire extinguisher nearby before you open the fuel system. Disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket before you touch any fuel lines or tank wiring. Wear safety glasses and fuel-resistant gloves because gasoline can damage your skin and eyes.

The fuel tank is heavy and awkward to handle, especially when full. Run the tank as low as possible before starting the job. A nearly empty tank is much safer and lighter to work with.

Tools and Parts You Will Need

Tools Required:

  • 10mm, 13mm, and 15mm sockets
  • 3/8-inch ratchet and extension set
  • Torque wrench (10-100 ft-lbs)
  • Fuel line disconnect tool set (3/8-inch and 5/16-inch)
  • Fuel pump lock ring tool (specialty tool)
  • Brass punch and dead-blow hammer
  • Flat-blade screwdriver and needle-nose pliers
  • Floor jack rated 3-ton minimum
  • Jack stands rated 3-ton minimum
  • Transmission jack or a floor jack with a wide wood block
  • Drain pan (2-gallon minimum)
  • Shop towels and safety glasses

Parts Required:

  • Fuel pump module assembly (compatible with your engine size)
  • Fuel pump module tank seal/O-ring
  • Fuel pump lock ring
  • Fuel line retaining clips (as needed)

Step-by-Step Removal Process

Step 1: Relieve Fuel Pressure
Remove the fuel filler cap by hand to release any tank vapor pressure. Place shop towels around the fuel line connection at the tank before disconnecting it. Go slow because fuel may still spray.

Step 2: Raise and Support the Vehicle
Use a floor jack to lift the rear of your Grand Cherokee at the rear axle center section. Place jack stands under the proper rear frame support points. Lower the vehicle gently onto the jack stands and confirm it is stable.

Step 3: Remove Rear Underbody Shields
Use a 10mm socket and a trim clip removal tool to remove any plastic underbody shields blocking the fuel tank. Set all bolts and clips aside in a small tray.

Step 4: Support the Fuel Tank
Place a transmission jack under the fuel tank. If you do not have a transmission jack, use a floor jack with a wide wood block to distribute the weight evenly.

Step 5: Disconnect Everything from the Tank
Disconnect the fuel line quick-connects using the fuel line disconnect tool. Disconnect the electrical connector for the fuel pump. Disconnect all EVAP and vent hoses. Remove the fuel filler neck hose clamp and pull the hose off.

Step 6: Remove the Tank Straps
Use a 15mm socket to unbolt the tank straps from the frame. Carefully lower the fuel tank just enough to access the top of the pump module.

Step 7: Remove the Lock Ring and Old Pump
Use the fuel pump lock ring tool and a 3/8-inch ratchet to turn the lock ring counterclockwise. If it is stuck, use a brass punch and dead-blow hammer to tap it loose. Brass helps reduce spark risk. Lift the module out carefully, angling it as needed to avoid damaging the fuel level float arm.

Installing the New Fuel Pump

Step 8: Clean and Prepare the Surface
Remove the old seal/O-ring and wipe the sealing surface clean with shop towels. Make sure there is no dirt, debris, or old gasket material left behind.

Step 9: Install the New Module
Install the new fuel pump module seal/O-ring. Make sure it sits flat and is not twisted. Install the new fuel pump module assembly in the same orientation as the old one. The alignment arrow should point toward the alignment mark, and the fitting on top should face toward the driver's side.

Step 10: Secure the Lock Ring
Reinstall the lock ring using the fuel pump lock ring tool. Tighten it until all notches engage. Torque to factory specification, which is typically 25 to 35 Nm.

Step 11: Reinstall the Tank
Raise the tank into place using the transmission jack. Reconnect the fuel line quick-connects by pushing until they click, then tug lightly to confirm they are locked. Reconnect all EVAP and vent hoses. Reconnect electrical connectors and listen for the click. Reinstall tank straps and bolts, then tighten with a torque wrench to 40 Nm (30 ft-lbs).

Priming the Fuel System and Testing

Step 12: Reconnect the Battery
Use a 10mm socket to reconnect the negative battery cable.

Step 13: Prime the Fuel System
Turn the ignition to RUN (do not start the engine) for 5 seconds. Turn the ignition OFF for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle 3 to 4 times to prime the fuel system. This pushes fuel through the new pump and lines before the engine tries to start.

Step 14: Start and Check for Leaks
Start the engine and let it idle. Use a flashlight to inspect the fuel pump area, fuel lines, and filler neck connections for any leaks. Do not use a flame or lighter to check for leaks. If you smell strong fuel or see wet fuel, shut the engine off immediately and fix the leak before driving.

After Repair Checklist:

  • Confirm the engine starts normally and idles smoothly
  • Add a few gallons of fuel and check again for leaks
  • Verify the fuel gauge reads correctly and updates as fuel level changes
  • Take a 10-15 minute test drive, then recheck under the vehicle for any seepage or fuel smell
  • If the check engine light turns on, you may have an EVAP leak, often caused by a loose vent hose or seal

Why You Should Choose KEMSO Fuel Pumps for Your 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee

When it comes time to buy a replacement fuel pump, quality matters. A cheap, low-quality pump can fail within months, leaving you stranded and forcing you to do the entire job over again. That is why we recommend KEMSO fuel pumps for your 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

KEMSO fuel pumps are built as high-performance, OEM replacement units. They are engineered to meet or exceed factory specifications, ensuring proper fuel pressure and flow for your engine. Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, so you never have to worry about buying a replacement again. If the pump ever fails, KEMSO stands behind it. Visit KEMSO Racing online at https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to find the right fuel pump for your Jeep and get back on the road with confidence.

Cost Breakdown: DIY vs. Professional Shop

Doing this job yourself saves a significant amount of money. A shop will charge you between $850 and $1,350 for parts and labor on a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee fuel pump replacement. The labor alone runs $371 to $545, with parts priced around $591. If you do it yourself, you only pay for the parts, which cost between $250 and $550. That is a savings of $600 to $800, and you also get the satisfaction of knowing the job was done right.

Final Thoughts

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not a beginner-level job, but it is well within reach of an experienced DIY mechanic. The key is to take your time, follow the steps in order, and never compromise on safety. Run the tank low before you start, use the right specialty tools like the lock ring tool and fuel line disconnect tool, and double-check every connection before you start the engine. If you run into trouble, consult the factory service manual for your specific engine size. With the right preparation and a quality replacement pump from KEMSO, you can have your Grand Cherokee running smoothly again for years to come.

For the best fuel pump replacement parts with a lifetime warranty, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ today.


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