Removing and Cleaning Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is located inside the tank and can be accessed by lifting the rear seat of the vehicle. In this case, with the ignition key in the 'on' position, you can hear the pump operating (this means the motor is functioning) and a strange hissing sound indicating that the system cannot draw fuel, suggesting that the filter (or diaphragm) is clogged.

Turn off the ignition and proceed with the removal by first taking off the plastic protective cap: you will see the fuel supply hose, the return hose, and the electrical connector. Using pliers, widen the clamps securing the hoses and then slide them off (it is advisable to have a cloth or absorbent paper handy as fuel may spill from the hoses) and disconnect the electrical connector.

Now, you need to unfasten the locking ring of the metal cap of the pump: using a screwdriver and a hammer, turn the ring counterclockwise and remove it. You can then lift the metal cap of the pump and identify two more hoses (supply and return) and wires connecting this cap to the actual pump body.

Loosen the hose clamps with the pliers and then slide off the hoses and electrical connections (note their positions if necessary) to remove the cap. At this point, you can locate the pump secured inside the tank by three tabs: press the tabs towards the centre and extract the pump.

You will immediately notice that the suction filter is clogged. It is advisable to empty the tank (as the fuel may be contaminated) with a liquid extractor and clean the bottom with a cloth.

Then disconnect the filter from the base of the pump and wash it thoroughly with clean petrol and a brush, and optionally dry it with low-pressure compressed air to avoid damage. Reattach the filter to the pump and reposition it correctly inside the tank, ensuring the tabs are secured.

Reconnect the hoses (tightening the clamps) and the electrical contacts to the metal cap, following the same sequence as disassembly. Then insert the locking ring into the appropriate housing, reattach the hoses by tightening the clamps, reconnect the electrical connector, and finally secure the ring again by turning it clockwise using the screwdriver and hammer.

Fill the tank with clean fuel: upon turning on the ignition, you should hear the pump operating without any hissing. Reposition the plastic cap and the seat previously removed.