2020 Toyota Corolla Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide for DIY Troubleshooting

If your 2020 Toyota Corolla (E210 generation, with M20A-FKS or 2ZR-FAE engine) cranks but won’t start, or you don’t hear the fuel pump prime when you turn the key, the fuel pump relay is one of the first things you should check. Here’s the bottom line: The fuel pump relay for the 2020 Toyota Corolla is located in the engine compartment fuse/relay box, under the hood on the driver’s side. It is not a separate, standalone relay labeled “fuel pump” – instead, the fuel pump is controlled by one of the multiport fuel injection system relays inside that box. The exact relay is typically associated with the EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) or fuel injection system.

Where Exactly Is the Fuse Box and How Do You Access It?

The fuse and relay box on your 2020 Corolla is under the hood, on the driver’s side of the engine bay, near the battery. To access it:

  1. Open the hood and secure it.
  2. Locate the black plastic fuse box on the driver’s side.
  3. Press the tabs on the sides of the cover and lift it off.
  4. Flip the cover over – you’ll see a diagram printed on the underside. This diagram shows the location and function of every fuse and relay in that box.

Important: The 2020 model does not have a relay labeled “FUEL PUMP” in big letters. Instead, look for the fuel injection system relays. According to the factory-style guide, there are two key relays that manage the multiport fuel injection system, and one of them directly powers the fuel pump. On the diagram, these are typically labeled as “EFI” or “Fuel Injection” relays.

What Fuses Should You Also Check?

Alongside the relay, three fuses play a critical role in the fuel pump circuit on the 2020 Corolla. Always check these before assuming the relay is bad:

  • Three 10-amp red fuses: These are associated with the fuel injection system. Remove each one, hold it up to the light, and look at the thin metal strip inside. If the strip is broken or melted, the fuse is blown.
  • Fuel pump-related fuse: While the 2020 model uses the injection system fuses, older Corolla generations (like 2003–2008) had a dedicated 20-amp EFI fuse. For your 2020, the relevant fuses are those 10-amp ones.

Pro tip: Swap a suspect fuse with a known good fuse of the same amperage (same color). If the car starts, you’ve found the problem.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

You don’t need expensive tools to test the relay. Here’s a simple, practical method:

  1. Listen for the click: With the ignition off, locate the relay in the fuse box. Have a helper turn the key to the “ON” position (don’t start the engine). Place your finger on the relay. You should feel a distinct click. If you hear/feel the click, the relay is likely working.
  2. Listen for the pump: At the same time, have your helper listen near the gas tank (or remove the gas cap and listen). You should hear a low hum or buzz for about 2–3 seconds – that’s the fuel pump priming. No sound means the pump isn’t getting power.
  3. Swap test: The easiest test is to find another relay in the same fuse box that is identical (same part number and pin configuration). Swap the suspect relay with that one. If the car starts, the relay is bad.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

If the relay is faulty, your 2020 Corolla will show one or more of these symptoms:

  1. Engine cranks but won’t start: This is the most common sign. The starter motor turns the engine over, but it never fires up because no fuel is reaching the injectors.
  2. No fuel pump noise: When you turn the key to “ON,” you should hear a brief buzzing from the rear of the car. Silence points to a relay or fuse issue.
  3. Engine stalls while driving: A failing relay can intermittently cut power to the fuel pump, causing the engine to suddenly die without warning.
  4. Rough idling or poor acceleration: If the relay is making intermittent contact, the pump may not maintain consistent fuel pressure.

How to Replace the 2020 Toyota Corolla Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the relay is a straightforward job that takes about 15 minutes.

Step 1: Disconnect the battery. Disconnect the negative terminal (black cable) to prevent any electrical shorts.

Step 2: Remove the fuse box cover. Lift the cover off the under-hood fuse box.

Step 3: Identify the correct relay. Use the diagram on the fuse box cover. Look for the relay labeled “EFI” or one of the fuel injection relays.

Step 4: Remove the old relay. Grasp the relay firmly and pull it straight up. It may require a gentle wiggle. If it’s tight, use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry it out.

Step 5: Install the new relay. Line up the prongs with the socket and push straight down until it clicks into place.

Step 6: Reconnect the battery and test the car. Turn the key to “ON” and listen for the fuel pump to prime. Then start the engine.

Cost: A replacement relay typically costs between $10 and $30.

What If the Relay and Fuses Are Fine?

If you’ve checked the relay and all fuses, but the fuel pump still isn’t working, the issue may be deeper:

  • The fuel pump itself is bad: The pump is located inside the fuel tank, accessible from under the rear seat. On the 2020 Corolla, you can access the pump module by lifting the rear seat cushion.
  • Wiring or connector issues: Corrosion, a loose wire, or a damaged connector between the relay and the pump can interrupt power.
  • ECU (Engine Control Unit) problem: In modern cars, the ECU controls the relay. A fault in the ECU may prevent the relay from activating.

A Note on Fuel Pump Quality

If you determine that your fuel pump needs replacement, choosing a reliable part is critical. A failing fuel pump can leave you stranded, cause engine overheating, and damage other fuel system components.

We recommend the KEMSO brand for your 2020 Toyota Corolla fuel pump. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed as high-performance, OEM replacement units. They are built to meet or exceed the original factory specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable operation. Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can install it with confidence knowing it’s backed for the long haul. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out pump or upgrading for better performance, KEMSO delivers the durability and peace of mind you need.

To browse the full lineup of KEMSO fuel pumps for your Toyota Corolla and other vehicles, visit their official store at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Thoughts

The 2020 Toyota Corolla fuel pump relay is inside the engine bay fuse box, on the driver’s side. It’s controlled by the EFI relay system, not a standalone “fuel pump” relay. Start your diagnosis by checking the three 10-amp fuel injection fuses, then test the relay by listening for the click and the pump prime. If both are good, the problem may be the pump itself or a wiring issue. A simple relay swap can save you a tow truck bill and get you back on the road quickly.

For more help, check your owner’s manual for the exact fuse diagram, or visit a trusted mechanic if you’re unsure about any step.

For quality replacement parts, remember to visit KEMSO at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/


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