2010 Chevy Traverse Fuel Pump Relay Location: Your Complete Guide

The fuel pump relay for your 2010 Chevy Traverse is located in the Underhood Electrical Center, specifically within the main Power Distribution Center situated on the driver's side of the engine compartment. To find it, look for the large black plastic box near the battery. Inside, the fuel pump relay occupies position #47. It is a standard micro ISO relay, typically black or gray, clearly labeled on the underside of the fuse box cover.

This specific information is crucial for anyone troubleshooting a non-starting Traverse or suspected fuel pump issues. Knowing the exact spot saves significant time and frustration compared to blindly searching various fuse boxes. Let's break down the precise location, how to access it, identify it, and understand why it's vital.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Relay's Function

Before diving under the hood, grasp what this small component does. Think of the fuel pump relay as a heavy-duty electrical switch. Your Traverse's fuel pump requires significant electrical current to pump high-pressure gasoline from the tank to the engine. Sending that much current directly through the ignition switch would quickly damage it.

The relay solves this problem:

  1. Low-Current Control Circuit: When you turn the ignition key to "Run" or "Start," a small signal current flows from the ignition switch (often via the Powertrain Control Module - PCM) to one coil terminal of the relay.
  2. Electromagnet Activation: This small current energizes an electromagnet coil inside the relay.
  3. High-Current Switch Closure: The activated electromagnet physically pulls internal switch contacts closed.
  4. High-Current Path Established: Closing these contacts allows the full battery current (via a large fuse) to flow directly from the battery terminal in the fuse box, through the relay's now-closed contacts, out to the fuel pump motor. This high current path bypasses the delicate ignition switch wiring.
  5. Pump Operation: With full power, the fuel pump in the tank spins, pressurizing the fuel lines and supplying the engine.

If this relay fails (the contacts don't close, or the coil doesn't energize), the fuel pump will not receive power, leading to a no-start condition – your engine will crank but won't fire.

Locating the Key Player: The Underhood Power Distribution Center

All crucial power distribution and switching for engine compartment and high-power accessories happen centrally in the main fuse/relay box under the hood. On the 2010 Chevy Traverse, this is officially called the "Underhood Electrical Center" or "Power Distribution Center" (PDC). Don't confuse this with the smaller fuse boxes inside the vehicle (like the one near the driver's side door).

  • Where to Look: Stand facing the front of your Traverse. Open the hood. Look toward the back (towards the windshield) on the driver's side of the engine compartment. You'll see a large black plastic box positioned horizontally. This box is usually mounted directly to the top of the left (driver's side) fender well apron, very close to the battery (which is on the driver's side in the 2010 Traverse).
  • Distinguishing Feature: This box is large enough to house numerous large fuses and several relays. It has a removable lid secured by simple clips or latches on the sides or corners.

Finding Position #47: The Fuel Pump Relay's Spot

Knowing the correct position within the PDC is critical. Multiple relays look identical.

  1. Remove the Cover: Open the latches or release the clips securing the lid of the Power Distribution Center. Lift the cover straight up. Set it aside carefully.
  2. Identify the Diagram: The underside of the lid holds the key: a detailed diagram or map showing every fuse and relay position and its function. This diagram is molded into the plastic or printed on a label. Find it immediately. Diagrams vary slightly between different trim levels (LS, LT, LTZ) and options, but the main layout and numbering are standardized.
  3. Locate Position #47: Systematically examine the diagram. Look for the position labeled "47" or "F/PMP" or "Fuel Pump." The diagram will indicate both the position number and the component name associated with that slot.
  4. Visually Confirm: Looking into the opened fuse box, locate the physical slot identified as #47 on the diagram. The relays are usually arranged in rows. Position #47 is typically one of the relay positions.

Identifying the Fuel Pump Relay Itself

With position #47 located, look at the relay plugged into that slot. Here's how to confirm it's the correct one:

  • Appearance: The fuel pump relay in the 2010 Traverse is a standard Micro ISO Relay (sometimes called a "Mini ISO" relay). These relays have a specific footprint pattern to fit only one way. They are relatively small, measuring roughly 1 inch wide by 1 inch long by 1.25 inches high (25mm x 25mm x 30mm).
  • Color: While color can vary (and replacements might be different), OEM relays in this position were commonly Black or Gray. Don't rely solely on color; the position and diagram are definitive.
  • Labeling: Often, the top of the relay itself will have a small number imprinted (like "46" or "48" indicating its internal design amperage rating, but NOT its position) and sometimes a circuit diagram symbol. The position (#47) defined by the lid diagram is the authoritative identifier.
  • Cross-Reference: The OEM part number might be printed on the relay (e.g., GM part numbers like 13544047 or 15332786 are known for this application). A standard Micro ISO relay with the correct terminal configuration will work as a replacement.

Why Correct Location Identification is Critical

Misidentifying the relay position can lead to:

  1. Wasted Time & Effort: Pulling the wrong relay delays the repair.
  2. Incorrect Diagnosis: Testing or replacing the wrong component won't fix the fuel pump issue and may lead you down the wrong troubleshooting path.
  3. Electrical Problems: Removing a relay controlling a critical system like cooling fans or ignition could cause unexpected issues or damage if the engine is running.
  4. Safety Hazards: Accidentally disturbing fuses or relays controlling airbags or braking systems is highly undesirable.

Position #47 via the diagram under the PDC lid is the only reliable source.

Accessing and Removing the Fuel Pump Relay

Once positively identified in slot #47, removing it for testing or replacement is straightforward:

  1. Ensure Safety: Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position. Remove the key. No power needs to be disconnected for simple relay removal, but exercise caution around the open electrical box.
  2. Grasp Firmly: The relay plugs directly into its socket. Grasp it firmly by its sides or top.
  3. Pull Straight Up: Using steady, even pressure, pull the relay directly upwards out of its socket. It will require moderate force to overcome the friction of the electrical terminals. Do not rock or twist it excessively.
  4. Inspect: With the relay removed, inspect the socket terminals for any signs of corrosion, melting, or damage.

Testing the Fuel Pump Relay: Is it the Culprit?

A failed fuel pump relay is a common cause of no-start situations. Here's how to test if yours is faulty:

  • The Swap Test (Simplest): This leverages knowing position #47.

    • Look at the lid diagram to identify another relay in the PDC that is the exact same type (Micro ISO) and controls a non-critical accessory that you can test easily. Common candidates are the Horn Relay or A/C Compressor Clutch Relay. Note the position (e.g., #46 Horn Relay).
    • Pull the known good relay (e.g., Horn relay from position #46).
    • Carefully swap it with the suspected fuel pump relay (from position #47). Put the suspected bad fuel pump relay into the Horn relay socket, and put the known good Horn relay into the Fuel Pump relay socket (position #47).
    • Try to start the engine. If the engine now starts and runs (the horn might not work at the moment, ignore that), it means the original relay in position #47 was faulty. The known good relay worked fine in the fuel pump circuit. Conclusion: Replace the fuel pump relay.
    • If the engine still does not start after swapping the relays, the problem is likely not the fuel pump relay itself. Further diagnosis of the fuel pump, fuel pump fuse, wiring, ignition switch, or PCM is needed.

  • Multimeter Testing (More Advanced):

    • Resistance Check (Coil): Set your multimeter to measure resistance (Ohms - Ω). Measure resistance between the two coil control terminals (usually terminals 85 and 86 on a Micro ISO relay). You should measure a specific resistance, typically between 50 and 120 Ohms. If the coil is open (infinite resistance) or shorted (near 0 Ohms), the relay is bad.
    • Continuity Check (Contacts - Relay Out): Set the multimeter to continuity (beep mode). With the relay out of the socket, check between the two high-current switch terminals (usually terminals 30 and 87). There should be no continuity (open circuit). Now, apply 12 volts to terminals 85 (+) and 86 (-) - a 9V battery can sometimes work, or use fused jumper wires from your car battery. While power is applied to the coil, recheck continuity between terminals 30 and 87. A good relay should now show continuity (closed circuit). If it doesn't close, the internal switch contacts are faulty. If it shows continuity when no power is applied, the contacts are welded shut.

Replacing a Faulty Fuel Pump Relay

If testing confirms a bad relay, replacement is simple:

  1. Purchase Correct Relay: Obtain a new relay. Options:
    • OEM: Purchase the correct GM part number from a dealership or GM parts supplier.
    • Standard Micro ISO Relay: Any standard automotive Micro ISO relay with the same terminal configuration is suitable. Common parts store numbers might include Duralast / Autocraft Micro Relay #192 / #46, Bosch 0332019110 or equivalent. Crucially, ensure it has the exact same terminal pin layout and amperage rating. Bring your old one to match it physically.
  2. Insert Correctly: Hold the new relay with the terminals facing down and the orientation matching the surrounding relays. Align it directly over socket #47.
  3. Press Firmly: Push the relay straight down into the socket with firm, even pressure until it seats fully. You should feel or hear it click into place as the terminals engage.
  4. Verify Installation: Gently tug upward on the relay; it should not come out easily if properly seated.
  5. Reattach PDC Cover: Snap the Power Distribution Center cover firmly back onto the box, securing all latches or clips.
  6. Test Operation: Turn the ignition key to "RUN" (don't start). You should hear the fuel pump prime (a faint humming or buzzing sound) for about 2 seconds from the rear of the vehicle (near the fuel tank). If you hear this sound, the relay is working. Attempt to start the engine.

Troubleshooting Beyond the Relay

If replacing the relay doesn't fix the problem, the fault lies elsewhere. Common related checks:

  1. Fuel Pump Fuse: In the same Underhood Power Distribution Center, locate the fuse for the fuel pump. The lid diagram will identify its position (often position #60 or #63 on 2010 Traverse models - VERIFY WITH YOUR LID DIAGRAM). Remove it and visually inspect the metal link inside. If it's broken (blown), replace it with a fuse of the exact same amperage rating (e.g., 15A or 20A - see diagram!). Determine why it blew (often a sign of fuel pump failure).
  2. Fuel Pump Ground: Corroded or loose ground connections near the fuel pump or PCM can cause failure. More difficult to diagnose without wiring diagrams.
  3. Fuel Pump Itself: If power (via fuse and relay) and ground are good, the pump motor itself may have failed. Requires access to the fuel tank (labor-intensive) and specific pump assembly testing/voltage checks.
  4. Wiring Harness: Damage in the wiring harness between the PDC and the fuel pump (especially where it runs near the frame or through the floor) is possible.
  5. Ignition Switch/PCM: Failure in the ignition switch or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to send the "turn on" signal to the relay coil.
  6. Anti-Theft System: Issues with the Passlock® system can sometimes inhibit fuel pump operation. A security light might be illuminated on the dash.
  7. Faulty Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM): Note: The 2010 Chevy Traverse generally does NOT have a separate Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) located externally near the spare tire like some earlier GM SUVs. Fuel pump speed control is typically handled directly by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Focus on the PCM or wiring if speed control is suspected.

Conclusion: Empowerment Through Knowledge

Understanding the precise location of the 2010 Chevy Traverse fuel pump relay – Position #47 in the Underhood Power Distribution Center near the driver's side battery – is fundamental knowledge for diagnosing a non-starting engine. This guide has provided the exact location, identification methods, testing procedures, replacement steps, and avenues for further troubleshooting. Armed with this information and appropriate safety precautions, you can confidently approach a potential fuel system electrical issue, saving significant time and diagnostic expense. Remember always to consult the diagram under your specific vehicle's PDC lid and exercise caution when working around vehicle electrical systems. Successfully finding, testing, and replacing this small but critical component can get your Traverse running smoothly again.

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