Chevy Reset Fuel Pump Shut Off Switch Location

If your Chevy won’t start after a collision or sudden stop, the fuel pump shut off switch may have tripped. The reset button is located behind the passenger side kick panel or inside the glove box, depending on your Chevy model. For most Chevrolet trucks and cars, the switch is a red or yellow button mounted on the right side of the passenger footwell, behind a plastic trim piece. Pressing it firmly will restore fuel flow and allow the engine to start. This article will walk you through the exact location for different Chevy models, how to reset it, and what to do if the problem persists.

1. Understanding the Fuel Pump Shut Off Switch

The fuel pump shut off switch is a safety device designed to automatically cut power to the fuel pump if your Chevy experiences a significant impact. This prevents fuel from continuing to spray in the event of a crash, reducing fire risk. It can also trigger from a hard jolt, like hitting a large pothole or a steep curb. The switch works like a circuit breaker – once tripped, it stays in the “off” position until you manually reset it. Almost all Chevrolet vehicles built after the mid 1990s have this feature.

Common signs that your shut off switch has tripped include: the engine cranks but won’t start, no sound from the fuel pump when you turn the key to the “on” position, and the fuel pump relay is clicking but the pump itself remains silent. If you notice these symptoms after a bump or collision, the switch is likely the culprit.

2. General Location: Passenger Side Footwell

For the vast majority of Chevy cars, SUVs, and trucks, the shut off switch is located on the passenger side of the vehicle. Specifically, you will find it behind a plastic kick panel near the floorboard, against the firewall. The exact placement may vary by model year, but here are the most common spots:

• Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra, Yukon: Behind the passenger side kick panel on the right side of the footwell. You may need to remove a small plastic cover held on by clips or screws.
• Equinox, Traverse, Blazer, Trailblazer: Behind the passenger side kick panel or sometimes behind the glove box.
• Cruze, Malibu, Impala, Spark: Mounted on the passenger side firewall, behind the glove box or under the carpet near the floor.

If your Chevy has a glove box that drops down easily (like many 2010 and newer models), check there first. Some models have the switch integrated into the glove box assembly. In older models (2000 and earlier), the switch might be on the driver side, but this is rare.

3. Step-by-Step Reset Procedure

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before touching anything, make sure the vehicle is in park or neutral with the ignition off. Remove any metal jewelry from your hands to avoid shorting electrical components.

Step 2: Locate the Access Panel

Look for the plastic trim piece on the passenger side near the floor. It is usually triangular or rectangular and may have a small indentation for pulling. Use a flathead screwdriver or trim tool to gently pry it off. If you hear a snap, the clips are releasing.

Step 3: Find the Reset Button

Once the panel is removed, you should see a small electrical module with a protruding button. The button is typically red or yellow and may have a label that says “fuel pump shut off” or “reset.” In some Chevy models, the button is recessed into the module.

Step 4: Press the Button Firmly

Push the button down until you feel it click. It may be stiff, so use your thumb or a blunt object. You should hear a distinct click sound. If the button is already flush with the module, it may not be tripped. Continue to step 5 anyway.

Step 5: Test the System

Turn the ignition to the “on” position (do not start the engine) and listen for the fuel pump hum. If you hear a two-second whirring sound from the rear of the vehicle, the fuel pump is working again. Then try starting the engine.

Step 6: Reinstall the Trim

If the engine starts, replace the kick panel. If it doesn’t, repeat steps 1 through 5 one more time. Sometimes the button needs a second press.

4. Model-Specific Variations

Not all Chevy models have the switch in the same location. Here are exact details for several popular Chevy vehicles:

Chevrolet Silverado (2000-2024): The switch is always on the passenger side, against the firewall. For 2000-2013 models, it is behind a rectangular cover near the glove box. For 2014 and newer, it is behind the lower kick panel that requires removing a few bolts.

Chevrolet Equinox (2005-2024): Open the glove box fully. On the left side of the glove box cavity, you will find a small plastic door. Pop it open and press the reset button. If not there, check behind the passenger side floor mat.

Chevrolet Malibu (2004-2024): Remove the passenger side lower dashboard trim. The switch is mounted on a bracket next to the fuse box. You may need a flashlight to see it.

Chevrolet Cruze (2011-2020): The switch is located behind the glove box. To access it, remove the glove box by squeezing the sides inward and pulling it out. The switch is on the left wall.

Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban (2000-2024): Same as Silverado. Check the passenger side footwell near the door hinge. Remove the plastic panel that covers the blower motor.

Chevrolet Camaro (2010-2024): The switch is in the trunk on the passenger side, behind a felt cover near the rear shock tower. This is unusual but accurate for the Camaro.

5. Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

The Button Feels Loose or Moves But No Click

If the button moves freely without resistance, the switch is not tripped. Check the fuel pump relay and fuse. The fuel pump fuse is usually in the under-hood fuse box, labeled “FUEL PUMP.” Replace if blown.

The Engine Still Won’t Start After Reset

If you reset the switch and the engine cranks but no start, the issue may be a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a dead relay. Listen for the fuel pump hum again. If silent, the pump itself may be dead. If you hear humming but no start, check for fuel pressure at the engine.

Resetting Multiple Times

If the switch trips repeatedly without any crash or hard bump, it may be faulty. A worn switch can trigger from normal vibration. Replace the switch assembly (usually part of the inertia switch module) with a genuine GM part.

Can’t Find the Switch at All

If you cannot locate the switch, consult your owner’s manual. Some Chevy models (like very early 2000s base trims) might not have the shut off switch. In that case, check the power distribution box for a fuel pump relay.

6. When to Replace the Fuel Pump Shut Off Switch

The switch itself rarely fails, but if it is physically damaged, corroded, or the reset button is broken, replace it. The part number is typically GM 13507333 for most Chevy models. Cost is around $20 to $40. Installation is straightforward: unplug the old switch, plug in the new one, and secure the bracket.

Another reason to replace: if the switch is located in a wet area (like behind a leaking seal). Moisture can cause internal shorts. In desert or dry climates, the switch lasts indefinitely.

7. Preventative Measures

To avoid unexpected trips of the shut off switch, drive carefully over speed bumps, potholes, and rough terrain. Secure any heavy cargo that could shift during a sudden stop. If you modify your Chevy with aftermarket suspension or lowering kits, the switch may become more sensitive due to altered shock absorption.

If you frequently carry heavy loads, consider installing a secondary fuel pump shut off switch bypass (only if you understand the safety implications). This is not recommended for daily driving.

8. Summary

Always start with the passenger side kick panel or glove box when looking for the Chevy fuel pump shut off reset switch. Press the red or yellow button firmly until it clicks. Then cycle the ignition and listen for the fuel pump. If the engine starts, you are done. If not, check fuses, relays, and fuel pressure. This simple reset can save you a tow truck visit and a mechanics bill. Keep this guide in your glove box for quick reference.

Remember: if you recently had a collision, even a minor one, always reset the shut off switch before calling for help. Many Chevy owners discover this trick after spending hours troubleshooting. The fix takes less than one minute.