2014 Chevy Cruze Fuel Pump Control Module Location (FPCM)

The fuel pump control module (FPCM) on a 2014 Chevy Cruze is located inside the right rear wheel well. To access it, you must remove a section of the interior trunk trim and potentially the wheel well liner itself. This critical component is not located inside the fuel tank with the pump, nor is it readily accessible from inside the cabin under the rear seats or in the trunk area without removing panels. Its placement near the rear wheel exposes it to road debris and moisture, making it a relatively common failure point known for causing frustrating no-start or intermittent running issues. Locating and accessing it requires some disassembly but is a straightforward DIY task for those comfortable with basic trim removal.

Here's a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about finding, identifying, accessing, and replacing the FPCM:

  1. Precise Location and Access Steps:

    • Location: The FPCM is firmly mounted to the inner metal structure of the vehicle's body, positioned directly behind the right rear wheel (passenger side in North American models). It sits within the cavity formed by the outer quarter panel and the inner wheel well, protected (somewhat) by the trunk's interior trim and the outer plastic wheel well liner.
    • Accessing the FPCM:
      • Clear the Trunk: Remove all items from the trunk area.
      • Remove Trunk Trim: Locate and carefully remove the large plastic trim panel covering the inner wall of the trunk on the passenger side (right side). This panel is typically secured by plastic push-pin clips and may have retaining bolts/screws near the top edge or the trunk opening latch area. Use a trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver wrapped in cloth to gently pry the panel free, starting from the bottom or sides. Be patient to avoid breaking clips.
      • Identify the FPCM: Once the trunk trim panel is removed, you should have a clear view of the inner body structure. The FPCM is a sturdy, rectangular or slightly square-shaped black plastic box, roughly the size of a deck of cards or slightly larger. It will have an electrical connector plugged into it and is held in place by one or more mounting bolts (usually 10mm head). It is distinctly mounted near the top edge of the wheel well opening, not hidden deeper within complex structures.
      • Wheel Well Liner Removal (Often Necessary): While you might get a visual on the module just by removing the interior trim, actually replacing it almost always requires removing the outer plastic wheel well liner as well. The fasteners holding the module are typically accessed from the outside (wheel well side). To do this:
        • Securely jack up the rear of the vehicle and support it on jack stands. Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked.
        • Remove the right rear wheel using the lug wrench.
        • Look inside the wheel well. The plastic liner is secured by numerous plastic push-pin clips and potentially some screws (7mm or 8mm head are common). Remove all fasteners carefully.
        • Carefully peel the liner back enough to gain access to the backside of the area where the FPCM is mounted. You should now see the mounting bolts securing the FPCM bracket to the body. On some Cruze models, the module itself might be bolted directly to a bracket that is part of the liner assembly.

  2. What the FPCM Does and Why It Matters:

    • The FPCM is the electronic brain controlling the electric fuel pump located inside the fuel tank.
    • Unlike older systems where the fuel pump received full battery voltage directly via a relay, the FPCM modulates the voltage supplied to the pump. This is primarily done to achieve two things:
      • Fuel Pressure Regulation: By adjusting the pump's speed (via voltage), the FPCM helps maintain the precise fuel pressure required by the engine's high-pressure direct injection system. This ensures optimal atomization and combustion.
      • Noise Reduction: Running the pump at lower speeds during periods of lower fuel demand significantly reduces the audible whine often associated with fuel pumps running at full voltage constantly.
    • Failure Symptoms: A failing or failed FPCM in your 2014 Cruze can manifest in several ways:
      • Engine Cranks But Won't Start: This is the most common symptom. You turn the key, the starter motor spins the engine, but it never catches and runs. No fuel pressure means no start.
      • Intermittent Starting Issues: The car might start fine sometimes, and fail to start at other times, especially noticeable when the engine or module is warm. This points to an electronic component failing under heat or load.
      • Engine Stalling: While driving, the engine might suddenly die as if the fuel supply was instantly cut off. It may or may not restart immediately.
      • Loss of Power/Hesitation: Intermittent voltage issues from the FPCM can cause the fuel pump to temporarily slow down or stop, leading to a momentary lack of power or hesitation during acceleration.
      • Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL): A failing FPCM will almost always trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common FPCM-related codes include:
        • P0230 - Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction
        • P0627 - Fuel Pump "A" Control Circuit / Open
        • P0628 - Fuel Pump "A" Control Circuit Low
        • P0629 - Fuel Pump "A" Control Circuit High
        • P2635 - Fuel Pump "A" Low Flow / Performance
        • P069E - Fuel Pump Control Module Requested MIL Illumination (often indicating an internal FPCM failure)
      • No audible humming sound from the rear when the ignition is turned to "ON" (before cranking). A healthy system briefly runs the pump for a few seconds to prime pressure.

  3. Distinguishing the FPCM from the Fuel Pump:

    • It's crucial to understand that the FPCM is separate from the fuel pump itself. The fuel pump assembly is located inside the fuel tank. It requires dropping the fuel tank for replacement (a significantly larger job). The FPCM, as we've established, is accessible outside the tank, mounted near the rear wheel well.
    • Diagnosing whether your no-start issue is caused by the pump or the control module is critical before replacing parts. Symptoms might be similar, but the repair paths are different.
    • Pump Issues: If the pump itself has failed, it usually fails completely and you rarely hear any priming sound, ever. Priming sound completely absent points more towards a pump, fuse, relay, or FPCM issue.
    • FPCM Issues: If you hear a very brief priming sound (half a second or less) or no sound at all, and the engine cranks but won't start, it often points towards the FPCM (or its power/ground circuits). Intermittent problems, stalling, or hesitation are also classic FPCM failures. Scanning for FPCM-specific DTCs is the best diagnostic step. Also check fuse FPMP INJ/IGN (usually a 20A fuse in the underhood fuse block - consult your manual for exact location and designation) and the Fuel Pump Relay.

  4. FPCM Replacement Procedure (Simplified): Always prioritize safety: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work. Support the vehicle properly on jack stands if removing the wheel/liner.

    • Gather Tools & Parts: You'll need: New FPCM (OEM GM part 13596809 is the correct application for most 2014 Cruze models, but verify compatibility using your VIN), trim removal tools, socket set (likely 10mm for FPCM bolts, 7mm/8mm for liner screws), ratchet, extension, jack, jack stands, lug wrench.
    • Remove Trunk Trim Panel: As detailed in section 1.
    • Gain Wheel Well Access: Jack up the vehicle, secure it, remove the right rear wheel, and remove the plastic wheel well liner fasteners (clips and screws). Peel the liner back to expose the backside of the FPCM mounting area.
    • Disconnect Electrical Connector: Locate the wiring harness connector plugged into the FPCM. Press the locking tab firmly and pull the connector straight off the module. Do not pull on the wires.
    • Unbolt the FPCM: Using the appropriate socket (usually 10mm), remove the bolt(s) securing the FPCM to its mounting bracket or directly to the body. There might be one or two bolts.
    • Remove Old Module: Carefully maneuver the old FPCM out of its mounting location. Note its orientation.
    • Install New FPCM: Position the new FPCM in place, aligning it correctly with the mounting holes. Reinstall and tighten the mounting bolt(s) securely.
    • Reconnect Electrical Connector: Align the electrical connector properly with the socket on the new FPCM. Push it firmly straight on until the locking tab clicks audibly into place. Give it a gentle tug to confirm it's locked.
    • Reinstall Components: Carefully reposition and secure the wheel well liner using all the original clips and screws. Reinstall the right rear wheel and lower the vehicle. Torque lug nuts to specification.
    • Reinstall Trunk Trim Panel: Align the panel correctly and snap it back into place, ensuring all clips are fully seated.
    • Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
    • Test Operation: Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (without starting). You should hear the fuel pump prime for 2-5 seconds – a distinct humming sound from the rear. This indicates the FPCM is activating the pump correctly. If you hear this, attempt to start the engine. It should start normally. Clear any stored DTCs with a scan tool if possible.

  5. Safety and Practical Considerations:

    • Disconnect Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on any electrical components to prevent short circuits, sparks, or accidental deployment of airbags (unlikely here but good practice).
    • Avoid Sparks/Flames: Never smoke or have open flames near the work area. Gasoline vapors can be present even after the engine is off. Work in a well-ventilated area.
    • Proper Vehicle Support: If you're jacking up the vehicle and removing the wheel, it is absolutely mandatory to support the vehicle securely on jack stands rated for its weight. Never rely solely on a jack to hold the vehicle up while you work under it or have limbs inside the wheel well.
    • Don't Force Connectors: Electrical connectors are designed to fit only one way. If it doesn't go together easily, double-check the alignment. Forcing it can break the connector or terminals.
    • Use Correct Hardware: Reinstall all screws, bolts, and clips securely to prevent rattles. Ensure the wheel is torqued properly to factory specifications (typically around 100 ft-lbs for Cruze lug nuts – consult manual).
    • Consider Weather: Working outside? Try to pick a dry day. Moisture is detrimental to electrical connections. While the FPCM is designed for its exposed location, minimizing water ingress during replacement is sensible.
    • Part Sourcing:
      • OEM (Recommended): General Motors part number 13596809 is the OEM FPCM for the 2014 Cruze with the 1.4L turbo engine (most common). Verify this using your VIN at a dealership parts counter or reputable online GM parts retailer. OEM modules offer the highest reliability and direct fitment.
      • Reputable Aftermarket: Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP), Delphi (OEM supplier for GM), ACDelco (GM's parts brand), or Dorman often offer reliable replacements. Ensure the part is specifically listed for the 2014 Chevy Cruze and your engine type.
      • Avoid Cheap Copies: Extremely low-cost modules from unknown brands carry a high risk of premature failure or incorrect calibration, leading to the same problems or new ones. Stick with known brands.
    • Diagnosis First: Replacing the FPCM should ideally follow confirmation of failure. Spending time checking fuses (especially FPMP INJ/IGN in the underhood box), listening for the prime, and scanning for FPCM-specific DTCs can save you from unnecessary part replacement. If you have persistent no-start, checking for power and ground at the FPCM connector with a multimeter while a helper turns the key to "ON" provides definitive circuit diagnosis. Lack of power with key on indicates a fuse, relay, or wiring issue upstream. Good power but bad ground or no pump activation points to the FPCM itself. This is the most reliable diagnostic approach before replacing the module.

Knowing that the 2014 Chevy Cruze fuel pump control module location is tucked away behind the right rear wheel well liner, accessible via trunk trim and sometimes wheel removal, empowers owners and technicians facing no-start issues. Its susceptibility to environmental factors makes it a known culprit. While replacement involves moderate disassembly, focusing on the specific area and following systematic steps makes it a manageable repair. Prioritize checking fuse FPMP INJ/IGN and scanning for FPCM fault codes before condemning the module. Opting for a quality OEM or reputable aftermarket part (GM #13596809) ensures reliable operation and restores your Cruze's drivability. Understanding its distinct location and function separate from the in-tank fuel pump itself is fundamental to efficient diagnosis and repair.

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