To verify that there is fuel in the fuel tank and that the fuel pump is operational, turn the ignition switch to ON and listen for a whirring noise for about two seconds as the pump pressurizes the system. If you can't hear the pump from inside the vehicle, open the fuel filler neck cap and have an assistant turn the ignition switch to ON while you listen at the filler neck. To test the fuel pressure on 2003 and earlier models, you'll need a fuel pressure gauge capable of reading pressures in excess of 48 psi (330 kPa) for 1999 and 2000 models, and in excess of 55 psi (380 kPa) for 2001 through 2003 models, along with some fuel hose and a suitable double flare fitting and adapter nut. Before disconnecting any fuel line fittings, relieve the fuel system pressure, then disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Remove the fuel pulsation damper from the fuel rail, install the correct diameter banjo bolt from your fuel pressure testing kit, hook up the test hose with the Schrader valve, and connect the fuel pressure gauge to the other end of the test hose. Reconnect the battery, turn the ignition switch to ON with the air conditioning off, and note the pressure on the gauge. Start the engine, let it warm up, and then disconnect the vacuum hose from the fuel pressure regulator. Note the indicated fuel pressure reading on the gauge and compare it with the operating range. Reconnect the vacuum hose to the fuel pressure regulator and note the indicated fuel pressure. If the indicated fuel pressure doesn't go up when you disconnect the vacuum line from the regulator, apply vacuum to the pressure regulator with a hand-held vacuum pump and note what happens. If the fuel pressure drops, the regulator is okay, but there might be a crack or tear in the vacuum hose. Replace the hose and retest. If the indicated fuel pressure doesn't go down when you connect the vacuum hose to the regulator, inspect the hose. If it's torn or cracked, replace it and retest. If the pressure still doesn't go down with the new vacuum hose connected, replace the regulator. If the indicated fuel pressure is higher than the specified range with the vacuum hose connected, check for a good vacuum signal with a vacuum gauge. If vacuum is present, check for a kinked, pinched or clogged fuel return hose or line. If the return line is okay, replace the regulator. If the indicated fuel pressure is lower than the specified range, start the engine and pinch off the return line. If the pressure now rises above the specified operating range, the regulator is not closing fully. Replace it. If the indicated fuel pressure is still lower than the specified range, the fuel filter might be clogged. Replace the filter. If the indicated fuel pressure is still lower than the specified range after replacing the filter, one or more of the fuel injectors or injector O-rings might be leaking, or the fuel pump might be faulty. Replace the defective component(s) and retest. After the test is complete, relieve the system fuel pressure, then disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. Remove your fuel pressure testing rig, then reconnect the fuel supply line to the connection at the firewall. Reconnect the cable to the negative battery terminal, start the engine and check for fuel leaks. For 2004 and later models, you'll need a fuel pressure gauge capable of reading in excess of 64 psi (440 kPa) and an adapter setup that connects the gauge between the two halves of the quick-connect fitting between the fuel supply line and the fuel rail. Before disconnecting any fuel line fittings, relieve system fuel pressure, then disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. Remove the quick-connect fitting cover, open the clamp that secures the fuel supply line to its mounting bracket, and disconnect the fuel supply line quick-connect fitting at the fuel rail. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel system, reconnect the battery, turn the ignition switch to ON with the air conditioning off, and note the pressure on the gauge. Start the engine, let it warm up, and note the indicated fuel pressure reading on the gauge and compare it with the operating range. If the indicated pressure is within the specified range, the system is operating correctly. If the indicated pressure is lower than the specified range, the fuel filter might be clogged or the fuel pump or fuel pressure regulator might be defective. After the test is complete, relieve the system fuel pressure. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. Remove your fuel pressure testing rig, then reconnect the fuel supply line, using a new retainer. Reconnect the cable to the negative battery terminal, start the engine and check for fuel leaks.
Posted by AcuraPartsWarehouse Specialist