The fuel pump relay on a 2005 Honda Pilot is typically found in the engine bay’s under-hood fuse/relay box, and it is usually labeled either “FUEL PUMP” or “PUMP.” If you don’t see it there, check the interior fuse box under the driver’s dash, as some models route the fuel relay there. This guide explains how to locate and verify it.
Understanding the fuel relay helps diagnose no-start or stalling issues: when the relay fails, the fuel pump may not receive power, causing the engine not to start or to stall. Because layouts can vary by trim or region, it’s best to consult your vehicle’s diagram on the fuse box cover and inspect both possible locations if you can’t find the relay right away.
Locating the relay in the engine bay
To locate the fuel pump relay in the engine bay, start with the large under-hood fuse/relay box. Use the diagram on the inside of the box cover to identify the fuel pump relay. The steps below outline how to find it and verify it.
- Open the hood and locate the engine bay fuse/relay box. It’s a black plastic box with a removable lid, usually near the battery or along the driver’s side inner fender.
- Remove the lid and look for a relay labeled “FUEL PUMP,” “FUEL,” or “PUMP.” The exact label can vary by year and market, so rely on the diagram on the lid.
- If the label isn’t clear, identify the relay by its position on the diagram and compare the relay’s size and pin count to neighboring relays.
- Remove the suspected fuel pump relay and reseat it firmly; a loose connection can mimic a bad relay.
- Check the related fuses (often labeled “FUEL” or “EFI PUMP”) for a blown fuse; replace if necessary.
In many Pilots, this is the quickest place to start. If you don’t find the relay there, proceed to the interior fuse box check described below.
Checking the interior fuse box (under the dash)
Some 2005 Pilot configurations place the fuel pump relay in the interior fuse box under the driver’s dash. If you can’t locate the relay in the engine bay, inspect this location next.
- Swing down the knee-panel or remove access cover to reveal the interior fuse box. Use the diagram on the box or in the owner’s manual to locate the fuel pump relay circuit.
- Look for a relay labeled “FUEL PUMP,” “FUEL,” or similar. If the label isn’t clear, compare to adjacent relays and the diagram to identify the correct one.
- Inspect the relay for signs of corrosion or damage, and test by swapping it with another relay of the same type (e.g., a horn or A/C relay) to see if the pump activates.
- Check the associated fuse in the interior box and replace if blown.
If you still can’t locate or identify the relay, consult the service manual for your exact trim/year or have a professional verify the wiring diagram, as the layout can vary by production batch and region.
How to test or replace the relay safely
Once you’ve located the relay, you can perform a quick diagnosis to determine if the relay is the cause of a no-start or stalling issue. The following steps outline a safe approach using a known-good relay or swapping with a similar one.
- Ensure the ignition is off, then remove the suspected relay. Use a known-good relay of the same type and pin count to swap with the suspected unit.
- With the spare relay in place, try to start the engine. If it starts or the fuel pump sounds like it’s running, the original relay is faulty and should be replaced.
- If swapping does not result in a running pump, inspect the fuse associated with the fuel pump and check the wiring from the relay to the pump for damage or corrosion.
- When replacing, use a relay with the same specifications (voltage and amperage rating) as the original part.
Always handle electrical components with the battery disconnected and avoid smoking or sparks near the fuel system.
Summary
For a 2005 Honda Pilot, the fuel pump relay is usually located in the engine bay under-hood fuse/relay box, labeled “FUEL PUMP” or “PUMP.” If not found there, check the interior fuse box under the dash. Use the box diagrams to identify the correct relay, and verify by reseating or swapping with a known-good relay and inspecting related fuses and wiring. If problems persist, consult the vehicle’s service manual or a professional technician for a definitive diagnosis.
How do I tell if my fuel pump relay is going bad?
Bay. If you can see signs of corrosion breakage or burning replace it immediately. A new relay only costs $20. If everything looks fine you can double check using a digital multimeter.
What are common problems with a 2005 Honda Pilot?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Climate System. AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
- Exhaust.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Brakes.
- Engine Minor.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Body Hardware.
What's the fastest a Honda pilot can go?
130mph
Top Speed of the Honda Pilot
Having ample power, the 2021 Honda Pilot has a 130mph maximum speed. This rating remains the same in each trim option and shows the handling capability the Pilot has.
Where is the starter relay located on a 2005 Honda Pilot?
And it's going to be this top guy. And it's going to be this guy right here come over here to the side. And all the way in the back. This guy back here.