Fuel Pump Removal

[Malloy]

I have a '99 Lexus 300es and think I have a fuel pump problem. It won't start and I don't hear the "humming" noise when I turn the key. Does anyone know the location and removal procedure for the pump? I've been told that it is probably the same as a '99 Camry. Thanks.

[Brian R.]

Normally, you access the pump through a hatch under the rear seat cushion (5 screws?). After that, removal of the pump is easy.

[Malloy]

Thanks for your help.

[Brian R.]

You're welcome

[Malloy]

I replaced the Fuel Pump (no problem) but it still won't start and doesn't seem to be getting gas. I can now hear the "humming sound" of the pump, but it seems to be louder when I finish cranking the engine than it does when I just turn the key. Any possible suggestions? Is there a fuel pressure regulator (or something else) that could be the problem? Thanks.

[Brian R.]

Either the pressure regulator or the filter could cause you to not get gas. What makes you say you are not getting gas to the engine? At what point in the fuel system aren't you getting gas? The injectors? The manifold? What?

[Malloy]

I doesn't seem to be getting fuel to the injectors. Do you think I should try to prime it somehow? It doesn't sound like it's getting any gas at all. Also, do you know where the pressure regulator is usually located?

[Brian R.]

Sorry for repeating myself, but what makes you think your injectors aren't getting gas. How did you determine that?

[ishop4less]

Check EFI fuse and relay.

[Malloy]

After trying to start the car, I loosened one of the injectors and didn't see any sign of fuel. Sorry for not being more specific, it's my girlfriend's car and I'm more used to working on older model vehicles. Also, I checked the EFI fuse/relay and they seem OK.

[Brian R.]

The injector migth be dry unless you had the ignition on and had fuel pressure. You need to check injector operation by listening to them click as the engine is cranked. Also, you need to check fuel flow and pressure at the filter.

Usually, having a dead engine is more likely to be ignition, rather than fuel problems. Do you have a lit "Check Engine" light?

[Malloy]

No check engine light. Doesn't it sound like the fuel pump was out? Before I replaced it, the pump made no "humming noise" at all before or after cranking the engine.

[Brian R.]

Hard to tell about the fuel pump. Replacing it didn't solve your problem. Maybe it was one of your problems, but it doesn't seem like it's your only problem.

[ishop4less]

I had similar issue yesterday with my client. The car won't start, it crank but won't start unless you push the pedal gas while you crank it, so I cleaned the IAC valve, change the air filter ( it was dirty). The car runs smooth now and start everytime.