2002 Acura MDX Fuel Pump Download Manual

The 2002 Acura MDX fuel pump system is a critical component responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine. This manual covers fuel pump specifications, installation procedures, troubleshooting, maintenance, and replacement guidelines for the 2002 Acura MDX. The fuel pump assembly includes the pump, fuel level sender, filter, and electrical connections, operating at approximately 45-60 PSI for proper fuel delivery to the 3.5L V6 engine.

1. Features and Specifications 2. Installation Procedures 3. Removal and Replacement 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Electrical Connections 7. Testing Procedures 8. Safety Precautions 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Features and Specifications

Key components: Electric fuel pump assembly, fuel level sensor, fuel filter, pressure regulator, electrical connector, and mounting flange.

Feature	Description
Fuel Pump Type	Electric in-tank submerged pump
Operating Pressure	45-60 PSI (3.1-4.1 bar)
Flow Rate	Minimum 30 gallons/hour
Voltage Requirement	12V DC
Fuel Level Sensor	Integrated float-type sender
Filter Type	In-tank sock filter
Connector Type	Weatherproof electrical connector
Mounting	Lock-ring secured flange
Compatibility	2002 Acura MDX 3.5L V6
Warranty	12 months/12,000 miles

Installation Procedures

Proper installation requires careful handling and following safety protocols.

Disconnect battery: Remove negative battery cable to prevent electrical shorts.
Relieve fuel pressure: Locate fuel pump relay in under-hood fuse box and remove while engine runs until stall.
Remove rear seat cushion: Access fuel pump assembly through access panel.
Clean area: Remove dirt and debris around fuel pump flange before disassembly.
Install new pump: Position new assembly carefully, ensuring proper seal alignment.

WARNING! Fuel is highly flammable; work in well-ventilated area with fire extinguisher nearby. Avoid sparks and open flames.

Removal and Replacement

Step-by-step fuel pump removal and replacement procedure.

Disconnect battery and relieve fuel system pressure as described in installation.
Remove rear seat bottom cushion by pulling upward at front edge.
Remove access cover screws and lift cover to expose fuel pump assembly.
Disconnect electrical connector and fuel lines from pump assembly.
Use fuel pump lock ring wrench to turn counterclockwise and remove lock ring.
Carefully lift pump assembly from tank, noting orientation for reinstallation.
Transfer fuel level sensor if required by replacement pump kit.
Install new O-ring lubricated with clean motor oil or silicone grease.
Reverse removal procedure for installation, ensuring proper alignment.

CAUTION! Mark fuel line connections before disassembly. Replace O-rings and seals during reassembly.

Technical Specifications

Part Number: 17010-S9A-A01 (OEM)
Pressure Rating: 47-54 PSI operating pressure
Current Draw: 4-8 amps typical operation
Fuel Compatibility: Gasoline, E10 ethanol blends
Temperature Range: -40°F to 200°F operating temperature
Connector Pins: 4-pin weatherproof connector
Mounting Torque: Lock ring 40-50 ft-lbs
Service Interval: Replace at 100,000 miles or symptoms
Weight: 2.8 lbs complete assembly

Controls and Components

Fuel pump system includes multiple integrated components and electrical controls.

Main Components: Electric motor, impeller, check valve, pressure relief valve, fuel filter sock, fuel level float, sending unit, electrical connector.

Electrical System: Fuel pump relay (located in under-hood fuse box), inertia switch, PCM control, fuel pump fuse (15A). The PCM controls pump operation based on crank signal and safety parameters.

Fuel Delivery: Pump draws fuel through filter sock, pressurizes system, delivers to fuel rail, excess returns via pressure regulator.

Electrical Connections

Proper electrical connection is critical for fuel pump operation and safety.

Identify connector: 4-pin weatherproof connector at pump assembly.
Pin identification: Pin 1 - pump power, Pin 2 - ground, Pin 3 & 4 - fuel level sender.
Test voltage: Key ON engine OFF should show 12V for 2 seconds at pump power pin.
Resistance check: Fuel level sender should show 3-90 ohms depending on fuel level.
Secure connection: Ensure connector locks properly and weather seal is intact.

Tip: Use dielectric grease on connector pins to prevent corrosion and ensure good contact.

Testing Procedures

Diagnostic procedures for fuel pump and related systems.

Pressure test: Connect fuel pressure gauge to service port on fuel rail.
Key ON test: Pressure should reach 45-60 PSI and hold for several minutes.
Volume test: Disconnect fuel return line, measure output (1 quart in 30 seconds minimum).
Current draw test: Use amp clamp to measure current (4-8 amps normal).
Voltage drop test: Check for excessive voltage loss in power and ground circuits.
Relay test: Swap with known good relay or test coil and contacts.
Fuel quality check: Inspect for contamination, water, or degraded fuel.
Line inspection: Check for kinked, damaged, or restricted fuel lines.

WARNING! Contain fuel during testing. Have fire extinguisher available. Avoid skin contact with fuel.

Safety Precautions

Fuel pump service involves significant safety hazards requiring proper precautions.

Fire Prevention: No smoking, sparks, or open flames within 50 feet. Disconnect battery before service. Have Class B fire extinguisher available.

Personal Protection: Wear safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves. Use shop towels to catch fuel spills. Avoid skin contact with gasoline.

Environmental: Contain and properly dispose of fuel and contaminated parts according to local regulations.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal fuel pump performance and longevity.

Every 30,000 miles: Replace fuel filter
Every 60,000 miles: Inspect fuel pump operation and pressure
Every 100,000 miles: Consider preventive fuel pump replacement
As needed: Clean fuel tank during pump replacement
Seasonal: Keep fuel tank at least 1/4 full to prevent pump overheating

CAUTION! Using contaminated or low-quality fuel can significantly reduce pump life.

Regulatory Information

This fuel pump meets EPA and CARB emissions requirements for 2002 Acura MDX applications. Manufactured to OE specifications for proper fit and function. Copyright © 2002 Acura Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. For technical support, contact Acura Customer Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine cranks but won't start	Fuel pump failure	Check for pump operation sound; test fuel pressure; verify power to pump.
Loss of power under load	Weak fuel pump	Test fuel volume and pressure under load; check for restricted filter.
Fuel gauge inaccurate	Level sender failure	Test sender resistance through full range; check wiring and connections.
Pump noisy operation	Worn pump or contamination	Inspect for debris in tank; replace pump if excessively noisy.
Intermittent operation	Electrical connection	Check connector security; test for voltage drop; inspect wiring harness.

Diagnostic Tip: Always verify fuel pressure and volume before condemning fuel pump.

Service Support: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com