2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel Pump Relay Location: Find & Fix it Fast

For the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the fuel pump relay is located inside the Power Distribution Center (PDC) under the hood. You'll find it specifically in the inner row of relay slots, closest to the vehicle's firewall. The crucial step is to consult the fuse box diagram on the underside of the PDC cover; it will clearly identify the relay slot labeled "Fuel Pump" or by a numerical designation like K51.

That's the key takeaway for getting your fuel pump operational again. Understanding this location is critical when your Grand Cherokee won't start due to fuel delivery issues. Let's break down exactly how to locate, access, identify, and handle the fuel pump relay in your 2014 model.

The Fuel Pump Relay: Why Its Location Matters

The fuel pump relay acts as a powerful, electronically controlled switch for your Jeep's fuel pump. Turning the key to "Run" sends a signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM then activates the fuel pump relay. This relay closes an internal circuit, allowing substantial electrical current from the battery to flow to the fuel pump submerged in the gas tank, pressurizing the fuel system for engine start-up and operation. A failed relay means no power reaches the pump, preventing the engine from starting or running.

Pinpointing the Power Distribution Center (PDC)

The home for the fuel pump relay (and many other fuses and relays) in your 2014 Grand Cherokee is the Power Distribution Center, commonly called the PDC. Forget searching inside the cabin – the PDC is located under the hood:

  1. Open the Hood: Release the interior hood latch and raise the hood, securing it with the prop rod.
  2. Locate the Black Box: Look on the driver's side of the engine compartment, positioned very near the battery.
  3. Identify the PDC: You'll see a large, rectangular, black plastic box. This is the PDC. It has a prominent lid that needs to be removed to access the contents inside.

Finding the Fuel Pump Relay Inside the PDC

Accessing the PDC is straightforward, but locating the exact fuel pump relay slot inside is essential:

  1. Safety First: Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal. This is non-negotiable. Before touching anything inside the PDC, disconnect the negative (-) battery cable. Place it securely away from the battery terminal to prevent accidental contact. This eliminates the risk of electrical shorts or shocks.
  2. Remove the PDC Cover: The lid is secured by several plastic tabs or clips around its edges. Gently press or pry these tabs outward or upward (depending on the specific clip design) to release them. Lift the cover straight off the base.
  3. Find the Diagram: Immediately turn the PDC cover over. Molded onto the underside is a detailed diagram. This diagram is your essential map.
  4. Locate "Fuel Pump" Relay: Carefully study the diagram. Look for the slot labeled either "Fuel Pump" or "FP". This labeling directly indicates the relay slot you need.
  5. Cross-Reference with Slot Number (K Number): The diagram also assigns alphanumeric identifications to each slot. The fuel pump relay slot is consistently designated as K51 in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee PDC layout. Always use the diagram as the primary source, but knowing K51 as the common designation helps confirmation.
  6. Identify the Slot: Locate slot K51 within the PDC cavity. The slots are in multiple rows. For the 2014 model, K51 (Fuel Pump Relay) is reliably found in the inner row of relay slots, the row closest to the vehicle's firewall (the back wall of the engine bay). This inner row runs parallel to the length of the car. Refer to your specific cover diagram to confirm.

(Illustration image showing the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee PDC lid diagram highlighting the "Fuel Pump" or "K51" slot, and the corresponding slot inside the open PDC box.)

What Does the Fuel Pump Relay Look Like and How Do I Remove It?

  • Appearance: The fuel pump relay is a small, square or rectangular, typically black plastic cube. It fits into one of the many similarly sized slots within the PDC. Standard automotive relays have multiple metal pins (terminals) protruding from the bottom.
  • Removal: Once you've identified the correct slot (using the diagram and K51 position):
    1. Ensure the battery negative terminal is disconnected.
    2. Position yourself directly above the relay.
    3. Grasp the relay firmly and evenly around its sides with your fingers.
    4. Pull the relay straight upwards out of its socket. A slight rocking motion might help if it feels stuck initially, but pull straight up. Do not yank on wires if present. Most modern relays like this plug directly into the socket without external wires attached.

Testing and Replacing the 2014 Grand Cherokee Fuel Pump Relay

If you suspect a relay issue, testing or replacing it is often the first troubleshooting step due to its relative simplicity and low cost compared to replacing the fuel pump itself.

  • The Swap Test (Simplest Method):

    1. Identify the relay: Locate the K51 Fuel Pump relay using the steps above.
    2. Identify a compatible relay: Find another relay in the PDC with the exact same part number printed on top. Suitable candidates are often relays controlling non-critical circuits like the horn, radiator fan (low speed), or another accessory marked identically on the diagram.
    3. Swap the relays: Swap the suspected fuel pump relay with the known-good, identical relay from another slot.
    4. Reconnect the battery negative terminal.
    5. Turn the key to "Run" (do not start). You should hear the fuel pump hum from the rear for approximately 2 seconds. Alternatively, see if the engine starts. If the problem disappears (pump hums or engine starts), the original relay in the K51 slot is bad. If the problem persists, the relay might be okay, or there could be another issue (like the fuel pump itself, wiring, fuse, PCM command, etc.). Return the test relay to its original position.

  • Multimeter Testing (More Advanced): This tests the relay's internal operation but requires basic electrical knowledge and a multimeter. It primarily checks for continuity across the switched contacts when the relay coil is activated. Detailed instructions for this method are readily available online, but the swap test is generally the most practical approach for most owners.

  • Replacement: If the relay is faulty, replace it with an exact match. Use the part number printed on the old relay or purchase a specific relay for the 2014 Grand Cherokee fuel pump circuit (Mopar part 56029372AB is a common number, but verify using your old relay or via parts store application lookup). Ensure it's a high-quality replacement (OEM or reputable aftermarket brand like Bosch). Insert the new relay firmly into the K51 socket, making sure it's oriented correctly (it generally only fits one way). Reconnect the battery negative terminal.

Don't Forget the Fuel Pump Fuse

While the relay controls the switching of high current, the fuse protects the circuit from overload. The fuel pump circuit has its own dedicated fuse, also located within the PDC under the hood. Using the underside diagram on the PDC cover, find the fuse labeled "Fuel Pump" or "FP" (often fuse number F22 in the 20A position for the 2014 Grand Cherokee, but ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR COVER DIAGRAM). Check this fuse visually. Look for a broken metal strip inside the clear plastic top. If it's blown, replace it with a fuse of the identical amp rating (typically 20A). A blown fuse indicates an overcurrent event, which could be a symptom of a failing fuel pump drawing too much current, or a wiring short. If the new fuse blows again immediately, the underlying cause needs diagnosis.

Troubleshooting Fuel System Issues: Beyond the Relay

While the relay is a common failure point, diagnosing a no-start condition requires looking at the bigger picture:

  1. Listen for the Fuel Pump: Have someone turn the key to "RUN" (don't crank) while you listen near the fuel tank filler neck or open the rear door. You should hear a distinct humming sound lasting 1-3 seconds. If you hear the hum, power is getting to the pump. If not, suspect the relay, fuse, wiring, or the pump itself.
  2. Check Engine Light & Codes: A lit Check Engine Light indicates stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve codes. Codes related to fuel pressure (like P0087, P0191) or engine control issues can provide clues.
  3. Fuel Pressure Test: The most definitive way to confirm fuel delivery is to test fuel pressure at the fuel rail schrader valve (looks like a tire valve, usually on the engine fuel rail) using a dedicated fuel pressure gauge. Requires some mechanical skill. Compare readings to specifications (typically around 57-68 psi for the 3.6L or 5.7L engines at key-on and running).
  4. Complex Failures: Problems like a failing in-tank fuel pump (common failure mode), wiring harness damage (especially near the tank), a clogged fuel filter (though note: many 2014s don't have a serviceable inline filter; fuel filtration is handled by the pump module sock/screen and potentially within the tank module itself), a faulty fuel pressure sensor, or even a failed PCM can mimic relay failure. A no-crank condition points toward the battery, starter, or ignition switch instead.

Common Fuel Pump Relay-Related Issues in the 2014 Grand Cherokee

  • Relay Failure Symptoms: The classic sign is a sudden no-start condition where the engine cranks perfectly but never fires. It happens without warning. Key-on fuel pump priming noise is absent.
  • Intermittent Issues: An intermittently failing relay can cause random stalling, hesitation, or difficulty starting that seems heat-related (e.g., works fine cold, fails when hot).
  • Relay Buzz/Chatter: Sometimes a failing relay may make an audible rapid clicking or buzzing sound from the PDC when you turn the key on, indicating the internal contacts are fluttering and not holding properly.

Crucial Considerations: Safety & Diagnosis Limits

  • Severe Fire Hazard: Gasoline and electricity are an extremely dangerous mix. Always disconnect the battery negative terminal before working in the PDC or near the fuel pump wiring. Avoid sparks or open flames. Do not smoke.
  • Don't Force It: Relays and fuses pull straight out. If stuck, double-check the removal method for your specific relay type. Never pry aggressively.
  • Replacement Parts: Use high-quality replacement relays and fuses. Cheap parts are prone to premature failure.
  • When to Seek Professional Help: If replacing the relay and fuse (if blown) doesn't solve the problem, or if you lack the tools/confidence for further testing (fuel pressure), consult a qualified mechanic. Fuel pump replacement is often complex, requiring tank lowering or removal. Accurate diagnosis is key to avoiding unnecessary repairs. Electrical diagnostics may require specialized tools.

Conclusion: Finding Your Key to Starting

Knowing that the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee fuel pump relay location is slot K51 within the inner row of relays inside the under-hood Power Distribution Center (PDC) empowers you to tackle a very common cause of frustrating no-start situations. Always rely on the PDC cover diagram for positive identification before removing any component. The swap test is a quick and reliable way to diagnose a faulty relay. Remember to always prioritize safety by disconnecting the battery first and to check the related fuel pump fuse. By methodically addressing this potential failure point, you can often get your Grand Cherokee back on the road quickly and efficiently. If the problem persists beyond the relay and fuse, professional diagnosis is strongly recommended to pinpoint the true cause within the fuel or electrical systems.

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