The Definitive Guide to 2007 Dodge Charger Fuel Pump Relay Location

Locating the 2007 Dodge Charger Fuel Pump Relay
The fuel pump relay for your 2007 Dodge Charger is located inside the vehicle's Power Distribution Center (PDC), commonly referred to as the main fuse box. Specifically, the fuel pump relay is found in position R7 within the main fuse box situated under the hood, near the battery. For drivers experiencing no-start issues, knowing the precise location of this critical relay is the first step in diagnosing potential fuel delivery problems. This guide provides exact, step-by-step instructions tailored specifically for the 2007 Charger model year.

Understanding the Power Distribution Center (PDC)
The Power Distribution Center (PDC) is the main electrical hub controlling vital circuits, including the fuel pump, on your 2007 Dodge Charger. This black plastic box houses numerous fuses and relays. On the 2007 Charger, the PDC is positioned under the hood. Its location is almost universal regardless of the Charger's specific trim level or engine size for this model year, simplifying the identification process. The PDC's lid is designed for easy access and clearly labeled with the position and function of each internal fuse and relay, aiding in quick identification. Familiarizing yourself with the PDC is essential for troubleshooting not just the fuel system, but many other electrical components.

Exact Location: Finding Relay Position R7
Open the PDC lid. Look for the diagram printed on the underside of the lid – this is your definitive map. Locate the slot labeled R7. This is the designated position for the Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay, which also functions as the Fuel Pump Relay in the 2007 Dodge Charger. The relay itself is a small, usually black or gray, cube-shaped component approximately 1 inch square. It plugs into a socket with multiple electrical terminals. The position R7 is generally situated within a cluster of other identical relays in the PDC. Ensure the engine is completely off and the key is removed from the ignition before touching any components inside the PDC.

Accessing the PDC: Engine Compartment Positioning
The 2007 Dodge Charger's PDC is secured under the hood on the driver's side of the engine compartment. It sits immediately next to the battery, mounted on the driver's side fender wall. To access it fully for relay inspection or removal, you might need to:

  1. Open the Hood: Pull the hood release lever inside the cabin and secure the hood with the prop rod.
  2. Remove the Plastic Cover: Undo the plastic fasteners or the wing nut securing the cover over the PDC. Lift this cover away carefully.
  3. Clear Surrounding Items: Temporarily move any loose items sitting near the battery or PDC. In tighter spaces, especially if you plan on removing the relay, loosening the battery hold-down clamp and carefully sliding the battery forward a few inches can provide significantly improved access to the PDC.

Identifying the Correct Relay
With the PDC lid removed and the R7 position identified visually using the diagram, look for the relay physically plugged into that specific socket. Confirmation is crucial:

  • Use the Lid Diagram: This is the primary reference. Match the slot position R7.
  • Consult Owner's Manual: While less detailed on exact relay positions, your Charger's manual confirms the PDC location and reinforces safety procedures.
  • Check Relay Labeling (if present): Some relays have faint markings indicating a part number starting with "6802" or simply "Relay". Others might have function labels like "ASD" or "Fuel." However, rely primarily on the position number R7 from the diagram, as physical labels can wear off or be generic. Do not pull relays based solely on an external label or guesswork; use the printed diagram first.

Function: Why the ASD Relay is Key to Fuel Delivery
The Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay in position R7 controls power to two major systems simultaneously: the fuel injectors and the fuel pump. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) activates this relay (usually when you turn the ignition key to the "Run" position, signaling readiness to start):

  1. Circuit Closure: The relay's internal switch closes.
  2. Power Delivery: Voltage flows from the fuse box (specifically from the main fuse connecting the battery directly to the PDC) through the ASD relay contacts.
  3. Activation: This powers both the fuel injectors and the fuel pump circuit.
    A failure in this single relay causes a simultaneous loss of power to both the fuel injectors and the fuel pump, rendering the engine unable to start due to lack of fuel delivery.

How to Remove the Fuel Pump (ASD) Relay
Once located at R7, removing the relay is straightforward:

  1. Safety First: Ensure ignition is OFF and key is out. Optional: Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal for maximum safety if testing/replacing.
  2. Grasp Firmly: Pinch the relay between your thumb and forefinger. Most have textured sides for grip.
  3. Pull Directly Upwards: Pull straight up with steady, firm pressure. Avoid excessive twisting or rocking, as this can damage the relay socket terminals. The relay should release from its socket with moderate force.
  4. Inspect Socket: Once removed, quickly inspect the relay socket contacts for obvious signs of corrosion, melting, or damage.

Testing for Fuel Pump Relay Failure
Several symptoms point directly to a failing ASD/Fuel Pump Relay:

  • Engine Cranks But Won't Start: The most common indicator – turns over fine but doesn't fire up.
  • No Fuel Pump Prime Sound: When you turn the key to "Run" (without cranking), listen carefully near the rear of the car (often from under the rear seats) for a distinct 2-3 second "whirring" or humming noise from the fuel pump priming the system. No sound strongly suggests no power reaching the pump, with the relay being a prime suspect.
  • Intermittent Stalling: A relay with failing internal contacts might cause the engine to suddenly die while driving, only to potentially restart after cooling off, mimicking ignition switch issues.

Basic Relay Function Check (Swapping Test)
A practical, non-technical test uses known-good relays in the same PDC.

  1. Note the positions of other relays matching the one in R7 (same size/color).
  2. Identify a non-critical relay used for something like the horn, A/C compressor, or radiator fan. Choose one labeled the same way physically. Consult the diagram to ensure swapping won't cause immediate issues.
  3. Swap the relay from R7 with the chosen identical relay from another position.
  4. Turn the key to "Run" and listen for the fuel pump prime sound.
  5. Attempt to start the engine.
  6. If the problem moves (e.g., horn stops working but car starts, or fuel pump works after swap), the original R7 relay is faulty.
  7. If the problem remains, the relay is likely not the cause. Check fuses and fuel pump power/ground next.

Inspecting Related Fuses
The ASD/Fuel Pump Relay receives power from a fuse and delivers power through fuses. Check both:

  1. Feeding Fuse for the Relay Coil: Located in the PDC under the hood. Check your lid diagram for the fuse labeled "PCM" or "ECU" (e.g., a 10 Amp fuse, often position F37 in 2007 models). This small fuse powers the relay's control circuit. If blown, the PCM cannot activate the relay.
  2. Output Fuses Protected by the Relay: Located in the PDC under the hood. The ASD relay protects circuits via larger fuses. Check the diagram for fuses labeled "Fuel Injector" (e.g., a 20 Amp fuse, often F36) and "Fuel Pump" (e.g., a 20 Amp fuse, often F30 in 2007 Chargers). If either is blown, the component it powers (injectors or pump) won't work even if the relay clicks.

Replacing a Faulty Relay
If testing confirms the relay is bad:

  1. Obtain Replacement: Buy an exact match. OEM Mopar relay part numbers for 2007 Chargers commonly include R5006208AA, 05015766AA, 56029985AC (cross-references vary; confirm fitment). Standard automotive relays like Bosch 0332019150 are also correct. Verify visually - matches size, pin count (typically 5-pin mini-ISO), and terminal layout of the original.
  2. Install: Plug the new relay firmly into the R7 socket, ensuring it seats completely and evenly. Listen/feel for a positive click.
  3. Test Operation: Turn key to "Run" and listen for fuel pump prime. Attempt to start the engine.

Safety Precautions: Essential Steps
Working near batteries and electrical components demands caution:

  1. Key Out, Ignition OFF: Always ensure the ignition is completely OFF and the key is removed from the vehicle before touching the PDC.
  2. Disconnect Battery: For any prolonged testing involving probing wires or relay terminal removal, disconnect the negative (-) battery cable. This prevents accidental short circuits that could blow fuses, damage the PCM, or cause sparks near battery gases.
  3. Mind Battery Terminals: Avoid allowing tools or metal objects to bridge between the positive (+) battery terminal and any grounded metal (like the car body or negative terminal).
  4. Handle Relays Carefully: Pull straight up. Avoid bending relay pins or socket terminals. Do not force a relay.
  5. No Smoking/Flames: Keep all open flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes well away from the engine compartment due to potential battery gases and fuel vapors.

Troubleshooting Beyond the Relay
If the relay tests good and the related fuses are intact, but the fuel pump still doesn't prime or the engine won't start:

  1. Check Fuel Pump Fuse: Confirm the larger fuel pump fuse in the PDC (position F30 - 20A is common) is intact.
  2. Verify Fuel Pump Ground: Locate the fuel pump ground connection (often found near the driver's side rear wheel well inside trunk liner). Ensure the connection is clean and tight.
  3. Test Fuel Pump Power: Using a multimeter, check for 12V at the fuel pump electrical connector (located near the top of the fuel tank, accessible under the rear seat) when the key is turned to "Run". Exercise extreme caution; fuel vapors are highly flammable. If no voltage arrives here, suspect wiring harness issues or problems from the ignition switch through the relay to the pump connector. If voltage is present, the fuel pump itself may be faulty.
  4. Ignition Switch: Faulty contacts in the ignition switch can prevent the "Run" signal from reaching the PCM and activating the relay.
  5. Body Control Module (BCM) / PCM: Communication issues between modules or internal PCM failure are less common but possible causes.

Common Misconceptions to Avoid

  • "The relay is under the dashboard or glove box": While vehicles have interior fuse boxes, the 2007 Charger's fuel pump relay is exclusively located in the underhood PDC. Checking interior boxes wastes time.
  • "All relays are the same": While physically similar, pin configurations and internal switching designs vary. Always replace with the correct relay type specified for the R7 position.
  • "If the relay clicks, it must be good": A clicking relay means its control circuit coil is working, NOT that the high-current switched contacts powering the fuel pump and injectors are functioning. A faulty internal contact is common. The swap test is more reliable.
  • "The fuel pump always makes noise": While usually audible (especially from rear seat area), extremely quiet pumps or loud environments can mask the priming sound. Lack of sound alone isn't 100% conclusive but is a strong indicator.

Maintenance Tips: Preventing Future Relay Issues
Relays are wear items, but proactive steps reduce failure chances:

  1. Secure PDC Cover: Ensure the PDC cover is properly sealed after servicing to protect against water and debris.
  2. Terminal Protection: Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to relay terminals and socket contacts during installation to combat corrosion and ensure good electrical contact. Do not use regular grease.
  3. Battery Health: Maintain a properly functioning battery and charging system. Voltage spikes or low voltage can strain relays and electronics.
  4. Avoid Water Exposure: Be mindful of washing the engine bay or driving in deep water, as excessive moisture ingress into the PDC can cause corrosion and short circuits.

When Professional Assistance is Needed
While locating and swapping the fuel pump relay is generally manageable DIY work, seek a qualified mechanic if:

  • You are uncomfortable disconnecting the battery or working around electricity.
  • Relays and fuses test fine, but the problem persists (pointing to deeper wiring, switch, or module issues).
  • You suspect fuel pump failure but cannot safely perform voltage/current testing at the pump.
  • After replacement, the new relay or associated fuses blow immediately (indicating a short circuit elsewhere).
  • Electrical problems manifest in multiple vehicle systems simultaneously, suggesting potential control module failures. Proper diagnostic scanning tools are essential.
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