How to Replace a Fuel Pump in a 1999 Chrysler Cirrus

Chrysler Motors produced the Cirrus automobile during the years 1995 to 2000. The 1999 Cirrus uses a pressurized fuel system powered by an electric fuel pump located in the car's fuel tank. Because of the fuel pump's location, it is necessary to completely drain and remove the fuel tank to gain access to the fuel pump. Chrysler considers the fuel pump an item that cannot be repaired, so if it malfunctions, you must replace it.

Relieve System Pressure

Remove the car's fuel cap to relieve the pressure in the fuel tank.

Remove or fold back any carpeting on the left side of the car's trunk to access the fuel pump electrical connector. The connector plugs into the car's wiring harness near the raised, circular shock tower. Unplug the connector from the harness. Follow the fuel pump wires to the rubber grommet located in the trunk floor, just behind the rear seat. Push the grommet through the floor and feed the electrical connector through the hole.

Start the car engine. It should stall in a few seconds because of lack of fuel. Try to restart it to be sure the fuel lines are clear.

Remove the negative cable from the battery to reduce the chance of sparking.

Remove Tank

Raise the vehicle using the jack. Support the vehicle with four jack stands. You must raise the vehicle to allow for removal of the fuel tank.

Place the container under the fuel tank drain plug, which is on the driver's side of the tank. If necessary, use a funnel to make it easier to collect the fuel and avoid spillage. Use a socket wrench to remove the plug by turning it counterclockwise. Replace the drain plug once the fuel stops draining. Some fuel is left in the tank.

Loosen the clamp on the fuel filler hose where it attaches to the fuel tank. Remove the hose, which leads from the gas filler spout.

Detach the two fuel lines from the fuel pump. The module is on the passenger side of the tank on the top side. The connectors are quick-release types that consist of a notch and tab. Depress the tab and separate the lines. Label the lines so you can replace them correctly.

Unplug the vapor hose on the rear of the fuel tank by pulling the hose straight off.

Place the jack under the fuel tank with the wood block in place. Raise the jack to support the tank. Remove the two fuel tank straps that hold the tank to the car. Each has one bolt on each end. Use caution as you release the second strap as the tank may shift if not properly supported. Lower the jack. Remove the tank from beneath the car.

Replace Pump

Wipe the area around the fuel pump module to ensure it's free from dirt that might contaminate the fuel tank. Turn the fuel pump module ring counterclockwise using a pair of large pliers. Remove the module ring from the tank.

Pull the fuel pump from the tank, being careful not to damage the sending unit arm. Angling the module may make it easier to remove.

Insert the new fuel pump module. Replace the retainer ring.

Move the fuel tank back under the car, and raise the jack to place it in the proper location. Replace the fuel tank straps to secure the tank.

Replace the fuel lines by snapping them back onto the fuel pump module. Make sure they are properly connected by referring to the labels you attached earlier. Reattach the vapor hose.

Reattach the fuel filler hose to the fuel tank. Tighten the clamp.

Reinsert the fuel pump wiring connector through the hole in the trunk floor. Connect it to the wiring harness.

Turn the ignition to the "On" position, but do not start the car engine. Turn it to the "Off" position. Repeat this several times to prime the system. Replace the fuel cap. Start the car engine. Check under the car for any signs of leakage.