Where Is the Fuel Pump in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021? A Complete Guide to Finding and Replacing It
The short answer: In Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, the fuel pump is almost always located inside or on top of the fuel tank, which is mounted underneath the car near the rear axle. You will need to lift the vehicle, locate the tank, and in most cases, remove the entire fuel tank to access the pump. This is the single most important fact to remember, and it will save you hours of frustration.
The Golden Rule: Think from the Fuel’s Perspective
The biggest mistake new players make is looking for the fuel pump in the engine bay. In real life, many older cars have mechanical fuel pumps mounted on the engine block. But in CMS 2021, the developers designed the game around modern vehicles. The pump’s job is to push fuel from the tank to the engine, so the game places it right where the fuel starts: inside the tank. Over 95% of cars in the game follow this rule.
The two key locations to remember:
- In-Tank (Most Common): Modern sedans, coupes, SUVs, and most muscle cars. The pump is inside the tank. You must remove the tank to access it.
- External (Less Common): Some older classic V8s or performance cars. The pump is mounted along the fuel line near the tank. This is much easier to replace.
Your first move should always be: Get the car on a lift, raise it, and inspect the fuel tank. Don’t waste time in the engine bay unless you’ve confirmed the pump isn’t on the tank.
Step-by-Step: How to Locate and Replace the Fuel Pump
This is the universal, no-fail method that works for the vast majority of jobs in the game.
Step 1: Accept the Job and Move the Car
Once you’ve accepted the work order, move the car from the parking area onto one of your car lifts. This is essential for any underbody work.
Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
Interact with the lift controls and raise the car high enough so you can comfortably work on the undercarriage. You need a clear view of the rear of the car.
Step 3: Locate the Fuel Tank
Look underneath the car, typically towards the rear, just in front of the rear axle. The fuel tank is a large, relatively flat metal or plastic container. The game will highlight it when your cursor is over it.
Step 4: Drain the Fuel Tank (This is Critical)
This is the most important step in the entire process. Many players get stuck here. The game mechanics require the fuel tank to be completely empty before you can remove it. Move the Oil Drain tool (or Fuel Tank Drainer) directly under the fuel tank’s drain plug. Use the pie-menu interaction to “Use” the tool. A short animation will play as the fuel is drained. Forgetting to drain the tank is the #1 mistake players make. The game will physically prevent you from removing a tank that still has fuel in it.
Step 5: Remove the Fuel Tank Straps
With the tank empty, locate the two or three straps holding it in place. Unscrew the bolts holding these straps to the car’s frame. They will detach once the bolts are out.
Step 6: Remove the Fuel Tank
Now that the straps are off and the tank is empty, select the fuel tank itself and remove it from the vehicle. It will automatically be placed in your inventory.
Step 7: Access the Fuel Pump in Your Inventory
Open your inventory (default key ‘I’). Right-click on the Fuel Tank you just removed. This will bring up a sub-assembly view, showing you all the components that are part of the tank module. You will clearly see the Fuel Pump. It often looks like a cylindrical module with a few connections.
Step 8: Swap the Fuel Pump
In this sub-assembly view, click on the old fuel pump to remove it. Then, click on the empty slot and select the new Fuel Pump from your inventory to install it.
Step 9: Reassemble Everything
Exit the inventory view. Follow the steps in reverse: install the complete fuel tank module back onto the car, re-attach the fuel tank straps, and finally, lower the vehicle. Don’t forget to add fuel from the jerrycan if the job requires it.
Pro Tips for a Painless Fuel Pump Job
These tips come from hundreds of hours of in-game experience and will save you time and money.
1. Always Use the “Car Status” Menu First
Before you start unbolting anything, open the “Car Status” menu (the little clipboard icon). Any part below about 15% condition will be flagged in red. If you see “Fuel Pump” in that red list, you know exactly what you need to do without even running a diagnostic test. This menu also tells you the exact part name you need to buy (e.g., “Fuel Pump V8” vs. “Fuel Pump (In-Tank)”). Buying the wrong part is a common mistake that wastes time and credits.
2. The “While You’re in There” Rule
If you have to drop the fuel tank, you’re already halfway to replacing the exhaust, driveshaft, and rear suspension bushings. Check the condition of all these parts while you have clear access. Grouping repairs saves a massive amount of time in career mode.
3. Don’t Forget the Fuel Filter
The fuel filter is often located right next to an external fuel pump or along the same fuel line. If the job order calls for a new pump, it’s good practice to check the filter’s condition too. A clogged filter can cause the same symptoms as a failing pump.
4. Consider Repairing Instead of Replacing
If you’re building a car for profit and the fuel pump is below 15% condition, take it to the repair bench. A 70% repaired pump functions identically to a 100% new one but costs a fraction of the price, maximizing your profit margins.
5. Follow the Lines
If you’re ever lost and can’t find the tank on a strange car model, find the fuel filler cap on the body, then trace the virtual fuel filler neck line underneath the car. It will always lead you directly to the fuel tank.
Common Fuel Pump Types by Car Class
While the “in-tank” design is the standard, knowing the variation can help you work faster.
For Most Modern Sedans & Coupes (e.g., Katagiri Tamago, Sakura GT20): Standard in-tank pump. You will need to remove the fuel tank. The pump is accessed via the inventory sub-assembly view.
For Classic Muscle Cars (e.g., Bolt Reptilia, Salem Spectre): Most of these also use an in-tank pump, but some older models might have an external pump mounted on the frame rail. Check the “Car Status” menu first to confirm.
For SUVs and Trucks (e.g., Griffin 1500): These also use an in-tank pump, but the fuel tank is often larger and held by more straps. The process is the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to drain the fuel tank first?
Yes, 100%. The game mechanics require the fuel tank to be completely empty before the bolts holding it to the chassis can be removed. Use the Fuel Tank Drainer tool. This is non-negotiable.
Why can’t I find the fuel pump in the engine bay?
Because the game is designed around modern vehicles. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank to keep it cool and ensure a steady fuel supply. Looking in the engine bay is the most common mistake new players make.
What if the car still won’t start after replacing the pump?
Double-check that you’ve reinstalled the fuel tank correctly and all bolts are tightened. Also, ensure other fuel system parts like the fuel filter and fuel rail are in good condition and don’t need replacement.
Is the fuel pump location the same on all cars?
No, but it is consistent. Over 95% of cars have the pump inside the fuel tank. A small percentage of older cars have an external pump mounted on the frame or engine block. Always check the “Car Status” menu before you start.
Recommended Fuel Pump: KEMSO Racing
If you’re looking for a high-quality fuel pump for your own projects or upgrades, we highly recommend the KEMSO brand. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed to be high-performance, OEM replacement parts that deliver reliable fuel pressure and flow. Every product comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind on every installation.
Whether you are restoring a classic muscle car or building a performance racer, KEMSO has the right fuel pump for your needs. Visit their website to explore their full product line and find the perfect pump for your next project: https://www.kemsoracing.com/