The relay you’re most likely looking for—the fuel pump relay—is in the engine-compartment fuse/relay box on the driver’s side. The Odyssey also has an interior fuse/relay box with other relays. This guide explains where to find these relays and how to identify them.
Engine bay fuse/relay box: where to find the fuel pump relay
In the 2002 Odyssey, the engine-compartment fuse/relay box sits on the driver's side of the engine bay, near the strut tower and firewall. The box is a black plastic enclosure with a snap-on cover that lists fuse and relay positions on the inside. Open it with care and consult the diagram on the cover to locate the fuel pump relay.
To locate the fuel pump relay quickly, follow these steps:
- Park on a level surface and turn off the engine; remove the keys.
- Open the hood and locate the large black plastic fuse/relay box on the driver’s side of the engine bay (near the left fender/strut tower).
- Release the cover latch and lift the cover to reveal the internal diagram and the relay positions.
- Find the relay labeled “FUEL PUMP,” “FUEL PUMP RELAY,” or a position that corresponds to the fuel pump in the diagram.
- Carefully pull the relay straight out using pliers if you need to swap it for a known-good relay for testing.
Note: The exact label or position can vary by production batch; if the cover diagram is unclear, refer to the owner’s manual or a factory wiring diagram for the 2002 Odyssey.
Testing or replacing the fuel pump relay
If you suspect the fuel pump relay is faulty, you can test by swapping it with another identical relay in the same box or by performing a quick continuity test with a multimeter if you have the wiring diagram. When swapping, use a relay with the same part number and contact configuration (typical 4 or 5-pin, 12V coil). After swapping, start the engine to see if the symptom moves with the relay.
Interior fuse/relay box: additional relays and access
There is also a fuse/relay box inside the cabin, typically located behind the driver's side kick panel under the dash. This box houses relays for ignition, A/C, lights, and other systems. Access by removing the trim panel to reveal the relay block and the diagram on the cover or underside.
To access and identify relays inside:
- Turn off the vehicle and disconnect the negative battery cable if you’ll be testing power or removing relays.
- Remove the kick-panel cover or the fuse box cover to view the relay layout.
- Look for labels like IGN (ignition), ABS, or others that correspond to relays rather than fuses.
- Swap with a similar relay to test or replace the suspected unit.
Interior relays are useful for quick diagnosis if the engine won’t start or accessories won’t operate.
Important caution
Always perform work with the ignition off and the battery disconnected if you’re going to test electrical components directly; miswiring can blow fuses or cause shorts. If you’re unsure, consult a service manual for the 2002 Odyssey or have a professional diagnose the relay problem.
How to test a relay and common signs of failure
Relays are simple electromechanical switches. Common signs of a faulty relay include inconsistent engine starting, intermittent fuel delivery, or power loss to a system that seems to flicker with engine RPM. A quick test is to swap the suspected relay with another identical relay in the same box, or to bench-test the coil with a 12-volt supply and listen for a click when energized.
Conclusions: If the vehicle starts after swapping, the original relay was likely faulty. If not, the issue lies elsewhere in the circuit—wiring, the fuel pump, or associated sensors.
Summary
In short, the 2002 Honda Odyssey has multiple relays, with the most referenced fuel pump relay located in the engine-compartment fuse/relay box on the driver’s side. There is also an interior fuse/relay box behind the driver’s kick panel. By opening each box and consulting the diagrams, you can identify and test the relays, swapping with a like-for-like part if necessary. Always observe safety precautions and consult a manual if you’re not certain.