Where is the fuel pump relay located in a 2008 Toyota Corolla?
3 Answers
The fuel pump relay in a 2008 Toyota Corolla is located in the large fuse box on the left side of the engine compartment. When the relay is operating, the electromagnet is energized, pulling the armature down to make contact between D and E, thereby closing the working circuit. When the electromagnet is de-energized, it loses its magnetism, and the spring pulls the armature back up, cutting off the working circuit. Working principle of the fuel pump relay: When a certain voltage or current is applied to both ends of the electromagnetic relay coil, the magnetic flux generated by the coil passes through the magnetic circuit composed of the iron core, yoke, armature, and working air gap of the magnetic circuit. Under the action of the magnetic field, the armature is attracted to the pole face of the iron core, thereby pushing the normally closed contacts to open and the normally open contacts to close. When the voltage or current at both ends of the coil falls below a certain value, and the mechanical counterforce exceeds the electromagnetic attraction, the armature returns to its initial state, causing the normally open contacts to open and the normally closed contacts to close. Composition of the relay: The relay can be viewed as an assembly consisting of two parts: the control circuit where the coil operates and the main circuit where the contacts operate.
As an experienced mechanic, I've seen plenty of this. The fuel pump relay for 2008 Corollas is usually hidden in that black box in the engine bay. Open the hood, look to the front left - there's a square plastic box next to the battery. Lift its cover and you'll see a dozen or so blue or black square relays inside. The fuel pump one typically has a 'FUEL PUMP' label. If the label's worn off, it's usually the third relay in the second row, slightly larger than the others. By the way, when fixing the same model last week, I noticed the box bottom tends to accumulate water and rust, so wipe it dry regularly. Never force the pins when removing - the plastic base is brittle. If you really can't find it, check page 143 of the owner's manual - the diagram shows it clearly, much easier than guessing.
Last time my car wouldn't start, I spent ages troubleshooting only to find out it was a burnt fuel pump relay. In my 2008 Corolla, the relay is right under the steering wheel - you kneel on the driver's floor, bump into a small plastic cover with your knee, pry it open and there it is. Inside you'll find thumb-sized blue cubes, and the fourth one from the left is the culprit. Remember to bring a flashlight - it's dark as a cellar in there. Once it failed after heavy rain, probably from water seeping in during car washes, so I bought some waterproof tape and sealed the edges of the cover. If you can't identify it visually, just snap a photo and send it to a mechanic group - the veterans will circle the right one for you in minutes.
