Dodge Challenger Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide to Finding and Replacing It

This guide will walk you through exactly where to find the fuel pump relay on your specific Dodge Challenger, how to test it, and what to do if it's the culprit behind your no-start or stalling issues.

Why the Fuel Pump Relay Location Matters

Before you start digging into your car, understanding the layout is critical. The Dodge Challenger, especially models from 2007 to 2013, has a known issue with the TIPM. Chrysler faced a class-action lawsuit regarding TIPM failures on 2007-2013 vehicles, including the Dodge Challenger. The fuel pump relay is often soldered inside this module, meaning it is not a simple plug-and-play replacement like a standard relay.

Knowing the exact location on your specific year will save you hours of frustration and potentially hundreds of dollars in unnecessary repairs.

Step-by-Step: Finding the Relay by Model Year

1. For 2008-2014 Dodge Challenger Models

For these years, the fuel pump relay is inside the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which is located under the hood on the driver's side near the battery. The TIPM is a large black box with a fuse diagram on the lid.

• Relay Number: According to one official fuse diagram for the 2008-2014 models, the fuel pump relay is listed as relay #46 inside the TIPM.
• The Catch: The relay is not a standard, replaceable unit. It is an internal component of the TIPM. This means you cannot simply pull it out and swap it like a fuse. If this relay fails, your two main repair options are replacing the entire TIPM (which costs $400 - $1,200) or installing a TIPM bypass kit ($60 - $200).
• TIPM Bypass Kit: This is a popular DIY alternative. The kit routes the fuel pump circuit through a standard external relay (like a Bosch 5-pin relay), bypassing the failed internal relay inside the TIPM. Installation takes about 30-60 minutes.

2. For 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger Models

For these newer models, the location changed. The fuel pump relay is now located in the trunk fuse box.

• Location: The trunk fuse box is located under the spare tire access panel in the rear compartment.
• Relay Number: On the 2015 Challenger, the fuel pump relay is specifically in position #72 in the trunk fuse box.
• For the 2023 Model: The 2023 Challenger has two fuse boxes. The fuel pump relay is located in the Underhood Fuses box, labeled as Relay 54 (Fuel Pump). There are also dedicated fuses for the fuel pump in the Rear Interior Fuses box (Fuse 21 for Fuel Pump #2 on 6.2L engines, and Fuse 40/41 for Fuel Pump #1).

3. For 2012 Dodge Challenger (Special Case)

The 2012 model year is a bit tricky. While some sources point to the TIPM, one owner on a Challenger forum reported that the dealer found the relay was relay #46 in the trunk fuse box. Another source states the relay on a 2012 model is located under the dashboard.

Our recommendation: If you have a 2012, start by checking the trunk fuse box for relay #46. If you don't find it there, look under the dash on the driver's side. If you still cannot find it, it is likely inside the TIPM under the hood.

How to Test if the Fuel Pump Relay is Bad

You don't need to be a professional mechanic to diagnose a bad relay. Here is a simple, step-by-step method:

Step 1: Listen for the Fuel Pump
Turn the key to the "ON" position (do not start the engine). Listen carefully near the rear of the car. You should hear a faint whirring sound for 1-2 seconds. This is the fuel pump priming. If you hear nothing, the relay or pump may be dead.

Step 2: Check the Fuse First
Before blaming the relay, check the fuel pump fuse. On the 2022 model, the fuel pump fuse is Fuse 21 (30A) in the luggage compartment fuse box (for non-6.2L ADR engines). If the fuse is blown, replace it and see if the issue is resolved.

Step 3: Test for Power at the Pump
If the fuse is good and the pump is silent, you can test the fuel pump connector at the tank. While a helper cycles the key on and off, use a voltmeter to check the connector. Power should appear for 1-2 seconds each time the key is turned on. If no power reaches the pump, the relay or wiring is the problem.

Step 4: The Jumper Wire Test (For External Relays)
If you have a model where the relay is accessible (like a standard relay in the trunk), you can jump the relay terminals. With the key off, identify the terminal with 12V power. Then, jump that terminal to the terminal that goes to the fuel pump. If the car starts, the relay is bad.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

If your relay is failing, you will likely experience one or more of these symptoms:

1. Engine Cranks but Won't Start: This is the most common symptom. The engine turns over, but there is no fuel pressure reaching the injectors.
2. Engine Stalls While Driving: The relay may intermittently cut power to the pump, causing the engine to die suddenly. You may be able to restart it after a few minutes once the relay cools down.
3. Sputtering or Hesitation: If the relay is failing slowly, the voltage to the pump may fluctuate, causing the engine to struggle under load or at highway speeds.
4. Silent Fuel Pump: When you turn the key to "ON," you should hear the pump prime. If you hear nothing, the relay is likely not sending power to the pump.

Why You Should Consider the TIPM Bypass (For 2008-2014 Models)

If you own a 2008-2014 Challenger and the internal relay in the TIPM has failed, replacing the entire TIPM can cost over $1,000. The more practical and cost-effective solution for many owners is the TIPM bypass kit.

• Cost: $60 to $200 for the kit.
• Installation Time: 30 to 60 minutes.
• How it Works: It bypasses the failed internal relay inside the TIPM and uses a new, standard external relay instead. This is a permanent fix that many mechanics recommend for older vehicles where the TIPM replacement cost exceeds the vehicle's value.

Why Choose KEMSO for Your Fuel Pump Needs

When you have diagnosed the issue and determined that your fuel pump itself needs to be replaced, you want a product that is reliable, high-performing, and backed by a strong warranty. That is where KEMSO Racing comes in.

KEMSO is the US #1 Aftermarket Fuel Pump provider for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs. Their fuel pumps are designed to meet or exceed original equipment (OEM) specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable operation. Whether you are replacing a worn-out pump or upgrading for better performance, KEMSO has the right solution for your Dodge Challenger.

Key Benefits of KEMSO Fuel Pumps:

• High Performance: KEMSO pumps deliver the fuel flow and pressure your engine needs, whether it is a stock daily driver or a high-horsepower build.
• OEM Replacement: They are designed as direct drop-in replacements, so no modifications are needed.
• Lifetime Warranty: Every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty. This means you buy it once, and if it ever fails, you are covered.

Customer Feedback: One customer noted that KEMSO pumps "function as it should and it looks really sturdy and well made."

Instead of spending hours hunting for a used or generic pump, choose a product that is built to last. KEMSO fuel pumps are available for a wide range of vehicles, from the Dodge Challenger to ATVs and motorcycles.

Visit KEMSO Racing today to find the perfect fuel pump for your Dodge Challenger: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Thoughts

Locating the fuel pump relay on a Dodge Challenger is not a one-size-fits-all answer. The location depends entirely on your model year. For 2008-2014 models, it is likely inside the TIPM under the hood, requiring a bypass or module replacement. For 2015 and newer models, it is usually in the trunk fuse box.

Before you spend money on a new pump, always test the relay and the fuse first. A simple relay failure can mimic a bad fuel pump perfectly. If you confirm the pump is bad, do not forget to check the KEMSO Racing website for a high-quality, lifetime-warranty replacement that will keep your Challenger on the road for years to come.

For all your fuel pump needs, visit KEMSO Racing at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/