🔧 Fuel Pump Module - Replacement

The fuel pump on your Equinox is inside the fuel tank, so this job usually means relieving fuel pressure, lowering the tank, and swapping the pump module. This is a fuel-system repair, so clean work and careful handling are critical to avoid leaks and fire risk.

Difficulty Level: Advanced | Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work outside or in a very well-ventilated area. Fuel vapors are flammable.
• Do not smoke, weld, or create sparks near the vehicle.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before opening the fuel system.
• Relieve fuel pressure before disconnecting any fuel lines.
• Keep a fire extinguisher rated for flammable liquids nearby.
• Support the fuel tank securely before removing straps.
• A helper is strongly recommended when lowering and reinstalling the tank.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands (rated for vehicle weight)
• Wheel chocks
• Metric socket set
• 10mm socket
• 13mm socket
• 15mm socket
• Ratchet
• Long extension set
• Torque wrench
• Fuel line disconnect tool
• Flat-blade screwdriver
• Pliers
• Fuel-safe drain pan
• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves
• Shop towels

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Fuel pump module - Qty: 1
• Fuel tank seal / O-ring - Qty: 1
• Fuel line retaining clips - Qty: 1 set
• Fuel filter sock - Qty: 1
• Fuel tank strap bolts - Qty: 1 set

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Chock the front wheels.
• Run the fuel level as low as safely possible before starting. This makes tank removal much easier.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.
• Relieve fuel pressure by removing the fuel pump fuse or relay, then crank the engine until it stalls.
• Let the engine cool fully before working near the tank and exhaust.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Relieve fuel pressure and disconnect power

• Use a 10mm socket to disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Remove the fuel pump fuse or relay, then crank the engine briefly to relieve pressure.
• Place shop towels around any fuel line connection points.

Step 2: Raise and support the vehicle

• Use a floor jack to raise the Equinox safely.
• Support it with jack stands under the proper lift points.
• Make sure the vehicle is stable before going underneath.

Step 3: Remove the fuel tank shielding and disconnect lines

• Use the appropriate metric sockets to remove any underbody shields blocking access.
• Use the fuel line disconnect tool to release the fuel supply and vapor lines.
• Disconnect the electrical connector to the fuel tank module.
• Work clean. Dirt in the tank area causes problems later.

Step 4: Support and lower the fuel tank

• Place the floor jack with a wide support under the tank.
• Use a 15mm socket to remove the fuel tank strap bolts.
• Slowly lower the tank just enough to reach the top of the module.
• Check for any missed hoses, clips, or connectors before lowering further.

Step 5: Remove the fuel pump module

• Clean the top of the tank around the module before opening it.
• Use a flat-blade screwdriver or the proper retaining-ring method to release the module lock ring.
• Lift the module out carefully and tilt it as needed to clear the tank opening.
• Remove and discard the old fuel tank seal / O-ring.

Step 6: Install the new fuel pump module

• Install the new fuel tank seal / O-ring in the correct groove.
• Lower the new fuel pump module into the tank in the same orientation as the old one.
• Lock it in place with the retaining ring.
• Do not pinch the seal.

Step 7: Reinstall the fuel tank

• Raise the tank back into position with the floor jack.
• Use a 15mm socket to reinstall and tighten the tank strap bolts.
• Torque to factory specification for the strap bolts.
• Reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connector.
• Reinstall any shields removed earlier.

Step 8: Reconnect battery and prime the system

• Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.
• Cycle the ignition from OFF to ON several times without starting the engine.
• Listen for the pump to prime each time.

Step 9: Start and inspect

• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Inspect all fuel line connections and the tank top area for leaks.
• Recheck for fuel odor after the engine warms up slightly.

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✅ After Repair

• Drive the vehicle and confirm normal starting and acceleration.
• Reinspect underneath for fuel leaks after the test drive.
• If the check engine light is on, scan for fuel pressure or pump-related codes.
• Make sure the fuel gauge reads normally.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $900-$1,800 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $250-$600 (parts only)

You Save: $650-$1,200 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 4-6 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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