Subaru Fuel Pump Relay Location: Find It Fast By Model & Year

Finding your Subaru's fuel pump relay location is essential for diagnosing no-start conditions or fuel delivery issues. The relay position varies significantly depending on your specific Subaru model and year. It is most commonly found within the main under-hood fuse box, the interior fuse panel near the driver's knees, or, in some models, under the rear seat near the fuel pump itself.

The fuel pump relay is a critical component in your Subaru's fuel system. It acts as a switch controlled by the engine computer (ECU). When you turn the ignition key to the "ON" position, the ECU sends a signal to the relay, closing its internal contacts. This completes the high-current circuit, sending power directly from the battery to the fuel pump, priming the system for a few seconds. When you start the engine, the ECU keeps the relay engaged, ensuring continuous fuel delivery. If this relay fails, the fuel pump won't receive power, preventing the engine from starting or causing it to stall unexpectedly. Locating it is the first step in testing or replacing it.

Safety First: Essential Precautions Before Starting

Working on your vehicle's electrical system requires caution. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before attempting to locate, inspect, or remove any relays or fuses. This prevents accidental short circuits, electrical shocks, or damage to sensitive electronic components. Ensure the ignition is completely off. Allow the engine to cool down if it has been running recently. Have your Subaru's specific year, model, and trim level information readily available, as relay locations can differ even within the same model year across different trims or engine options. Gather basic tools like a flashlight for illumination, needle-nose pliers for relay removal (if necessary), and your owner's manual for fuse box diagrams.

Understanding Subaru Fuse Box Layouts

Subaru vehicles typically have two primary fuse and relay locations. The Main Fuse Box is almost always located under the hood, usually near the battery or along one of the fender walls. This box houses high-amperage fuses and relays for major components like the radiator fan, ABS system, and often the fuel pump. The second location is the Interior Fuse Panel, situated inside the cabin. This is almost invariably found on the driver's side, either underneath the dashboard near the steering column, behind a removable panel on the lower part of the dashboard, or sometimes integrated into the side of the dashboard. This panel contains fuses and relays for interior electronics, lighting, and sometimes, the fuel pump relay. Some models feature a third location under the rear seat, specifically near the fuel pump access hatch.

Locating the Fuel Pump Relay: Model-by-Model Guide

  • Subaru Impreza (Including WRX & STI):
    • 2008-2011 Models: Check the Main Fuse Box under the hood. Look for a diagram on the fuse box lid identifying the fuel pump relay position.
    • 2012-2016 Models: The fuel pump relay is located inside the Interior Fuse Panel on the driver's side, beneath the dashboard. Remove the lower dash panel for access.
    • 2017-Present Models: For most 2017+ Imprezas, including WRX and STI models, the fuel pump relay is found within the Main Fuse Box under the hood. Consult the lid diagram.
  • Subaru Forester:
    • 2009-2013 Models: Look inside the Interior Fuse Panel, located on the driver's side under the dashboard.
    • 2014-2018 Models: The relay is typically located in the Main Fuse Box under the hood.
    • 2019-Present Models: Check the Main Fuse Box under the hood first. Refer to the diagram.
  • Subaru Outback / Legacy:
    • 2010-2014 Models: The fuel pump relay is usually situated in the Interior Fuse Panel under the driver's side dashboard.
    • 2015-2019 Models: Locate the relay within the Main Fuse Box under the hood.
    • 2020-Present Models: Found in the Main Fuse Box under the hood.
  • Subaru Crosstrek (XV):
    • 2013-2017 Models: Check the Interior Fuse Panel on the driver's side, beneath the dashboard.
    • 2018-Present Models: Located in the Main Fuse Box under the hood.
  • Subaru Ascent (2019-Present): The fuel pump relay is housed within the Main Fuse Box under the hood.
  • Subaru BRZ (2013-Present): The relay is located inside the Interior Fuse Panel on the driver's side, under the dashboard.
  • Older Subaru Models (Pre-2010):
    • Legacy/Outback (2005-2009): Often found in the Interior Fuse Panel under the dash.
    • Forester (2003-2008): Check the Interior Fuse Panel or the Main Fuse Box (consult manual).
    • Impreza/WRX/STI (2002-2007): Typically located in the Interior Fuse Panel under the driver's dash.
    • SVX, XT, Justy, etc.: Location varies significantly. The Main Fuse Box under the hood is a common location, but the Interior Fuse Panel or even dedicated relay boxes near the steering column are possible. Referencing a specific service manual is highly recommended.

Finding the Relay Under the Rear Seat

Certain Subaru models, particularly some older Legacies, Outbacks, and Foresters, position the fuel pump relay physically near the fuel pump itself, under the rear seat cushion. This is less common in newer models but worth checking if you cannot find the relay in the under-hood or interior fuse boxes. Lift the rear seat bottom cushion (it usually just pulls up from the front edge). Look for a small access panel or wiring harness near the fuel pump hatch. The relay might be clipped to the body or part of a small relay bracket in this area.

Identifying the Correct Relay

Fuse boxes contain multiple relays that often look identical. Never guess. Use the fuse box diagram printed on the inside of the fuse box lid. This diagram is a map, labeling each fuse and relay position numerically or alphabetically. Look for labels like "Fuel Pump," "FP," "F/P," "Main Relay" (sometimes combined), or simply "Relay" with a number corresponding to the diagram. If the lid diagram is missing or faded, consult your vehicle's owner's manual. Most manuals include a detailed fuse box section. As a last resort, search online for your specific year and model fuse box layout image.

Testing the Fuel Pump Relay (Basic Check)

While a multimeter provides the most accurate test, a simple swap test can indicate a potential relay failure. Find another relay in the same fuse box that has the exact same part number and terminal configuration (usually 4 or 5 pins). Common candidates are the horn relay or the radiator fan relay (ensure they match!). Carefully swap the suspected fuel pump relay with this known good relay of the same type. Turn the ignition to "ON" (do not start). Listen near the rear seat or fuel tank for the distinct humming sound of the fuel pump priming for 2-3 seconds. If the pump now primes after the swap, the original fuel pump relay is likely faulty. If there's still no sound, the issue could be elsewhere (fuse, pump, wiring, ECU). Note: This test doesn't confirm the relay works perfectly under load but is a good initial indicator.

Replacing a Faulty Fuel Pump Relay

Once you've identified the correct relay and confirmed it's faulty, replacement is straightforward. Ensure the ignition is off. Firmly grasp the relay and pull it straight out of its socket. Avoid excessive wiggling. Take the old relay to an auto parts store to get an exact match. Subaru relays are often standard Bosch-style or Tyco relays, but the specific amperage rating and pin configuration are crucial. Insert the new relay into the socket, ensuring it's oriented correctly (match the pin configuration and any keying on the relay base). Push down firmly until it seats completely. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to "ON" and listen for the fuel pump prime. Attempt to start the engine.

Troubleshooting: Relay Not the Issue?

If replacing the relay doesn't solve the problem, further diagnosis is needed. Check the fuel pump fuse associated with the relay circuit. This fuse is often located near the relay itself. Inspect the fuse visually or with a multimeter for continuity. Listen for the fuel pump prime sound when the ignition is turned on. If you don't hear it, the issue could be the pump itself, wiring damage (corrosion, breaks), a faulty fuel pump controller (on some models), a problem with the immobilizer system, or an ECU failure. Professional diagnosis with specialized tools may be necessary.

Importance of Using the Correct Replacement Relay

Always replace a fuel pump relay with the exact part number specified for your Subaru model and year. Relays have specific current ratings (amperage) and switching characteristics. Using an incorrect relay can lead to premature failure, inability to handle the electrical load (causing overheating or melting), or even damage to the fuel pump or ECU. Genuine Subaru relays or high-quality OEM-equivalent parts from reputable brands are recommended.

Maintenance Tips for Fuel System Reliability

While relays aren't typical maintenance items, ensuring clean electrical connections promotes longevity. Periodically inspect the relay sockets in the fuse boxes for signs of corrosion, dirt, or bent pins. A small amount of electrical contact cleaner can be used carefully on the socket terminals if corrosion is present (ensure power is disconnected). Protect fuse boxes from excessive moisture. Address any underlying issues causing repeated relay failures, such as a fuel pump drawing excessive current.

Conclusion: Locating Your Subaru Fuel Pump Relay

Finding the Subaru fuel pump relay location requires knowing your specific model year. Start by checking the Main Fuse Box under the hood and the Interior Fuse Panel under the driver's dash, using the diagrams on the lids or in your owner's manual. For some older models, check under the rear seat near the fuel pump access. Identifying the correct relay using the diagram is crucial before testing or replacement. A simple swap test with an identical relay can often confirm failure. Always replace with the correct part number relay to ensure reliable operation and protect your vehicle's electrical system. If the relay isn't the culprit, further diagnosis of the fuel pump circuit is necessary.

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