fuel
Fuel Pump Module
for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
2.0 h
Tools
10
Steps
14
This procedure removes and replaces the fuel pump module assembly from the fuel tank of a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4, accessed through a service cover under the rear seat.
Warnings
⚠️FIRE HAZARD: Gasoline is extremely flammable and toxic. Work in a well-ventilated area away from sparks, flames, or heat sources. Have an ABC-rated fire extinguisher immediately accessible.
⚠️EXPLOSION HAZARD: Fuel system operates under pressure. Failure to properly relieve fuel pressure before disconnecting lines can cause fuel spray resulting in fire or injury.
⚠️FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY: Improper torque on fuel line fittings or lock ring can cause fuel leaks leading to fire. Use exact torque specifications and verify all connections.
⚠If you are uncomfortable working with fuel systems or lack the proper tools, this job should be performed by a professional technician.
⚠Fuel tank should be less than 1/2 full to minimize spillage. Drain fuel if necessary before beginning this procedure.
ℹ️This procedure requires accessing the fuel tank through the rear seat area. The access cover is located under the rear bench seat cushion.
Tools required
Fuel pump lock ring tool (Toyota SST 09808-14020 or equivalent)Essential
Torque wrench (5-70 Nm range)Essential
Fuel line disconnect tool setEssential
3/8 inch ratchet and extension
Phillips screwdriver
Trim panel removal tool set
Shop towels and drip panEssential
Fire extinguisher (ABC rated)Essential
Nitrile glovesEssential
Safety glassesEssential
Parts
- Fuel pump module assembly × 1 — Toyota 77020-06230 or equivalent
- Fuel pump lock ring gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Fuel line O-rings (set) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources
- Ensure fuel tank is less than half full to minimize spillage
- Place fire extinguisher within immediate reach of work area
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
- Remove rear seat cushion by pulling upward firmly on front edge to release retaining clips
- Remove carpet or insulation material covering the fuel pump access cover
- Allow engine to cool completely if vehicle was recently operated
Procedure
- 1Relieve fuel system pressureLocate the fuel pump relay or fuse in the engine compartment fuse box (refer to fuse box diagram on cover). Remove the EFI-MAIN relay (typically 30A in position 3). Reconnect the negative battery terminal temporarily. Start the engine and allow it to run until it stalls from fuel starvation. Attempt to start the engine 2-3 more times to ensure pressure is fully relieved. Disconnect the battery negative terminal again and wait 90 seconds.⚠️This step is critical to prevent fuel spray under pressure during line disconnection.
- 2Remove fuel pump access coverRemove the Phillips head screws securing the fuel pump access cover (typically 4-6 screws). Carefully lift the access cover to expose the fuel pump module assembly. Clean the area around the pump assembly thoroughly with shop towels to prevent debris from entering the fuel tank.Torque specAccess Cover Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
- 3Disconnect electrical connectorPress the locking tab on the fuel pump electrical connector and disconnect it from the pump module. Move the connector aside to prevent damage during pump removal.
- 4Disconnect fuel supply lineUsing the appropriate fuel line disconnect tool, depress the release tabs on the quick-connect fuel line fitting while pulling the fuel line away from the pump module. Have shop towels ready to catch residual fuel (approximately 50-100ml may drain). Inspect the O-ring on the line for damage and note orientation.⚠Residual fuel will be present even after pressure relief. Have drip pan and towels ready.
- 5Disconnect fuel return line (if equipped)If your vehicle is equipped with a separate fuel return line, disconnect it using the same procedure as the supply line. Some 2018-2024 Camry models use a returnless fuel system and will not have this line.
- 6Remove fuel pump lock ringUsing the fuel pump lock ring tool (Toyota SST 09808-14020 or equivalent), position the tool tabs into the lock ring notches. Rotate the lock ring counterclockwise to loosen. The lock ring is under no spring tension but may be tight. Once loosened, remove the lock ring completely and set aside with its gasket.⚠Do not use hammers or chisels on the lock ring as this can damage the tank or create sparks.
- 7Remove fuel pump module assemblyCarefully lift the fuel pump module straight up and out of the tank opening. Tilt the assembly slightly to angle the fuel level sender arm and float assembly through the opening. Be careful not to damage the fuel level sender float or sender arm. Allow excess fuel to drain back into the tank. Place the old pump assembly in a suitable container.⚠The fuel level sender arm extends approximately 6-8 inches from the pump body. Handle carefully to avoid bending.
- 8Inspect and clean tank openingInspect the fuel tank opening gasket surface for debris, corrosion, or damage. Clean the sealing surface thoroughly with a lint-free cloth. Inspect the inside of the tank opening for any visible debris or contamination. Do not allow any debris to fall into the tank.
- 9Install new lock ring gasketRemove the old gasket from the lock ring and discard. Install the new fuel pump lock ring gasket onto the fuel pump module, ensuring it is seated properly in the groove around the pump flange. Verify the gasket is not twisted or pinched.
- 10Install new fuel pump moduleAlign the fuel pump module with the tank opening, ensuring the orientation arrow or alignment mark on the pump flange matches the mark on the tank. Carefully lower the pump assembly into the tank, angling the fuel level sender arm and float through the opening. Press the pump flange down evenly until it seats against the gasket.⚠Proper alignment is critical. The pump will only fit in one orientation. Do not force.
- 11Install and torque lock ringPosition the lock ring over the pump flange and hand-thread it clockwise until it contacts the flange. Using the lock ring tool and torque wrench, tighten the lock ring to specification. Tighten in a cross-pattern if multiple notches are available to ensure even gasket compression.⚠️Proper lock ring torque is critical to prevent fuel leaks. Use a calibrated torque wrench.Torque specFuel Pump Lock Ring68 Nm (50 lb-ft)
- 12Install new fuel line O-ringsRemove the old O-rings from the fuel line quick-connect fittings and discard. Lubricate new O-rings lightly with clean gasoline or approved fuel system lubricant. Install new O-rings onto the fuel line fittings, ensuring they are seated properly in their grooves.
- 13Reconnect fuel linesPush the fuel supply line quick-connect fitting straight onto the pump module nipple until you hear and feel a distinct click. Gently tug on the line to verify it is locked in place. Repeat for the return line if equipped. Ensure fittings are fully seated and locked.⚠️Fuel line connections must be fully locked. A partially connected line will leak under pressure.
- 14Reconnect electrical connectorReconnect the electrical connector to the fuel pump module, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab engages. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector.
Reassembly
- Reinstall fuel pump access cover with new or reusable gasket if equipped, torquing screws to specification
- Reinstall carpet or insulation material over access cover
- Reinstall rear seat cushion by aligning clips and pressing firmly until all clips engage
- Reinstall EFI-MAIN relay or fuse in engine compartment fuse box
- Reconnect negative battery terminal
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and listen for fuel pump operation (should run for 2-3 seconds). Repeat 3-4 times to pressurize the system
- Inspect fuel pump access area and all connections for any signs of fuel leakage
- Start the engine and let it idle. Check for smooth operation with no fuel smell or visible leaks
- With engine idling, inspect the fuel pump module area again through the access cover for any signs of seepage
- Test drive the vehicle and verify normal fuel delivery under acceleration and load
- After test drive, perform final leak inspection of all fuel connections while engine is hot
- Clear any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been set during the fuel pressure relief procedure
- Verify fuel gauge reading is accurate and matches actual fuel level