Q: Fuel pump will not stop running when the engine is turned off

asked by on December 22, 2016

The electric fuel pump is running continually when the motor is turned off and will not stop. In order to keep the battery from running down, I have disconnected the negative post.

My car has 51000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

It sounds like you have an intermittent short in the control circuit of the fuel pump relay. It may be easier to just remove the fuel pump relay when you stop the car instead of removing the negative terminal each time, as I’m sure you’re probably doing a bit of damage to the terminal when re-tightening it each time. I would not recommend leaving it loose either, as it can affect many electrical systems in your car, as well as run the risk of damage from electrical arcing. This is a potentially dangerous situation and should be looked at very soon by a qualified mechanic such as one from YourMechanic.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What should I do if my electronic key doesn’t work with the car?
Your car’s smart key system allows you to lock and unlock the doors, and even crank the engine without having to use a physical key or even press a button on the remote. However, there may be times when the...
Emergency brake will not let off.
The 1992 Honda Civic was the second car I owned and I know it rather well. The information you provided is limited but I will still try to put you on the right path. If your parking brake is released...
Belt squealing
This is a pretty common problem for your vehicle. Your serpentine belts are likely worn out. In addition it is highly likely that you could have a bad pulley or belt tensioner. If any one of these things are a...
Car rattles after accelerating
Yes, a loose heat shield, exhaust leak, damaged muffler or catalytic converter, or even a faulty engine mount may all contribute to a rattling noise. The exhaust system and motor mounts need to be inspected for contact issues. You may...
Rattling from timing chain tensioner
Hello. Ford motors commonly have a problem with the timing chain making noise over time. Most of the time, the problem is that the timing chain guides are worn out. This could be causing the timing chain to hit metal...
Can I reset the computer and if so how?
Hi. The radiator shouldn't make the Check Engine Light come on if it is bad. Your Check Engine Light is on because there is a sensor in your engine sending a bad message to the PCM. To solve this problem,...
When replacing the oil cooler do i need to put O rings on it as well? 2002 Dodge 3500 CummingsDiesel
Hi - yes, absolutely change the o-rings (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-distributor-o-ring). They get brittle with heat and age, lose their resilience, and you have oil leaks. If you would like assistance with this task, I would recommend having the oil cooler replaced (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-cooler-replacement)...
Carbon smell coming out from engine
Hi there. If you are getting a smell like this in your vehicle then it more than likely has an exhaust leak. Since the vehicle is new you should take it back to the dealer to have this issue looked...
Why do I smell oil and about how much will it cost to repair it?
Hello Diana. If you still have the service documents from the dealership a technician will be able to tell you if the leaks are new or a recurring issue. Mini Coopers will usually have a leak around the oil pan...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Lincoln MKT
This This roomy wagon definitely has a different look – its bold and somewhat retro lines, draw attention in a way Lincoln hasn’t experienced since perhaps the ’78 Town Car. While the MKT may not be the sleekest, sportiest crossover...
How Long Does a Fuel Pump Last?
With With all of the different components that allow your car’s fuel system to function, it can become very hard to keep up with them all. Having malfunctioning components in your fuel system can lead to a variety of issues...
How to Replace a Fuel Pump Relay
The fuel pump has a relay that fails when there is no audible humming sound as the ignition is turned and when the car cranks after longer than usual.