The fuel control module is a crucial device that controls the voltage delivered to the vehicle’s fuel pump thus maintaining optimal fuel pressure and fuel delivery to the engine.
If this crucial component is not operating optimally then your car may stall. That is why it is crucial to ensure that this device is in good condition and operating smoothly.
So, does a fuel pump module pump need to be programmed? Continue reading to find out.
Yes, the fuel pump control module must be programmed with the right calibration software to operate optimally. If you install the fuel pump module without programming it properly, then it may cause issues with your car.
For instance, the engine may not start or may run rough. Your car may also lose fuel pressure. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that the fuel pump control module of your vehicle is programmed by a reputable mechanic who has the right equipment and software to program it.
If you install this device on your own, you will still need to take your car to the mechanic or have the machine come and program it.
Contents
What does a fuel pump control module do?
The fuel pump control module regulates the voltage supply to the electric fuel pump thus maintaining optimal fuel pressure and fuel delivery to the engine.
If this crucial device is not operating optimally, you may experience multiple problems including power surges when in reverse, smoky startup stalling, uneven running when idling, and much more.
How do you test a fuel pump control module?
Testing the fuel pump control module may look complex but it is simple if you follow instructions properly. To test the fuel pump control module, jump the red and white wire on the device with the gray and black wire to the pink wire.
When you jump these wires, you should be able to hear the pump cycle run. If you leave them connected and start your car, it should stay running. That’s it.
Where is the fuel pump driver module located?
In older vehicles, (below 2005), the fuel pump driver module is located near or on the fuel pump. For new car models, this device is located under the seat or on the frame near the spare tire.
How much does it cost to replace a fuel pump driver module?
The cost of replacing a fuel pump driver module varies depending on various factors, including your location, your car type and brand, and year of manufacture among many others.
However, the average cost of replacing a fuel pump control module is between $250 and $1100. Labor costs are estimated to range between $150 and $300, while parts prices range between $100 and $850. Keep in mind that this estimate does not include taxes and fees.
Fuel pump control module program, how is it done?
To program a new or existing fuel pump control module, follow the steps given below.
Step 1: Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the instructions given on the screen.
Step 2: Select K27 on the SPS supported controller screen and follow the instruction given. if your fuel pump control module does not accept the program, check if all connections are secured and if not do the necessary adjustments to ensure that they are all secured.
Once the programming is done do the following to avoid future misdiagnosis
- Open and close the door
- Turn the ignition OFF for about 10 seconds
- Clear all DTCs from all module
- Turn the Ignition On and the Engine OFF
How do I know if my fuel pump driver module is bad?
When your car fuel pump driver module is bad, its symptoms will manifest through engine performance. Some of the signs of a faulty fuel pump driver module include a smoky start-up, uneven running while idling, difficulty in starting the engine misses and hesitation when starting the engine, and power surges when you reverse.
If your car shows the following symptoms, then that is a sign of a failing fuel pump driver module.
Can I drive my car with a bad fuel pump module?
Yes, you can still drive your car with a bad fuel pump module. However, you will drive your car only for a short period. If the problem is not fixed on time, then your car will stall.
Most new car models are very sensitive and will stall almost immediately when the fuel pump module fails. So, if your car starts showing signs of a bad fuel pump module, take it to the mechanic immediately for a checkup and repair before it stalls.
What causes the fuel pump control module to go bad?
Multiple things can cause the fuel pump module to go bad. However, the most common cause of fuel pump module failure includes old age, fuel contaminants (bad gas, moisture, or dirt), and electrical faults.
Most fuel pump failures occur with little warning. So, ensure that your car fuel pump module is replaced immediately when it shows signs of failure.
How can I reset my fuel pump control module?
If your car has been involved in an accident, or if the fuel pump control module is tampered with, a warning may pop up on the dashboard indicating that you reset the fuel pump control module. If that is the case with your car, then below is a simple process on how to reset it.
- Switch off the ignition
- Inspect the fuel system for leaks, if there is a leak then fix it.
- If there is no leak in the fuel system, open the access panel and push the reset button to reset the fuel pump module
- Turn on the ignition to the ON position and let it stay there for a few seconds then return the ignition to the OFF position
- Check again the fuel system for leaks
- Start your car if there are no leaks
Final thoughts
If you are thinking of replacing your faulty fuel pump control module and wondering whether the new one needs to be programmed, the answer is YES. The fuel pump control module must be programmed with the right calibration software to operate optimally.
