2014-2017 Nissan Quest Fuel Pump: Stalling, No-Start Issues, and Replacement

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump

A failing fuel pump in a 2014-2017 Nissan Quest will cause noticeable engine performance problems. Because the pump's job is to provide a steady supply of fuel, symptoms often get worse under acceleration 🎬 Watch: Learn more about common bad fuel pump symptoms or when the engine is under load.

Engine Stalling or Sputtering

One of the most common and concerning symptoms is the engine stalling unexpectedly. This can happen while driving, particularly at consistent highway speeds, or when coming to a stop. The engine may also sputter or hesitate when you press the gas pedal, as the weak pump struggles to deliver the extra fuel the engine needs.

Difficulty Starting or No-Start

A weak fuel pump can lead to long crank times, where the engine turns over for several seconds before it finally starts. This happens because the pump takes longer to build up enough pressure in the fuel lines. When the pump fails completely, the engine will crank but will not start at all because no fuel is reaching the engine.

Whining Noise From the Rear

A loud whining or buzzing sound coming from the rear of the vehicle, near the fuel tank area, is a classic sign of a failing fuel pump motor. A healthy pump makes a quiet hum when the key is first turned on, but a loud, persistent whine indicates the motor is strained and likely nearing the end of its life.

Loss of Power

You may notice a significant loss of power when accelerating, driving uphill, or towing. The engine requires more fuel during these high-load situations, and a failing pump cannot keep up with the demand, causing the vehicle to feel sluggish and weak.

Associated OBD-II Trouble Codes

If the check engine light is on, a diagnostic scanner may show codes related to the fuel system. The most common code for a failing fuel pump is:

• P0087 - Fuel Rail/System Pressure - Too Low: This code is a direct indication that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected that the fuel pressure is below the required minimum. This is often caused by a weak fuel pump 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose a failing fuel pump or a clogged filter within the module.
• P0460, P0461, P0462, P0463: These codes relate to the fuel level sensor circuit. Since the sensor is part of the fuel pump module, these codes can appear if the sending unit has failed, even if the pump motor itself still works.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

For the 2014-2017 model years, there are no active safety recalls for the fuel pump assembly itself. However, it's worth noting that earlier models of the same generation (2011-2012 Quest) were recalled under NHTSA campaign 12V-076 for a software issue in the Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM) that could cause stalling. While this recall does not apply to 2014-2017 vehicles, it shows a history of fuel-delivery-related issues within this Quest generation.

Buying a Used Fuel Pump: What to Check

A quality, low-mileage used OEM fuel pump assembly can be a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive new parts. Cheap aftermarket pumps have a reputation for premature failure, making a recycled OEM unit a smarter choice. Here’s what to inspect before buying:

• Verify the Part Number: Match the OEM part number from your original unit to the replacement. The most common part number is 17040-1JA3A. The numbers 17040-1JA0A, 17040-1JA1A, and 17040-1JA2A are earlier versions that have been superseded by 17040-1JA3A.
• Inspect the Electrical Connector: Check the electrical connector on top of the pump assembly for any signs of melting, charring, or corrosion. A damaged connector is a major red flag and indicates a potential electrical problem that may have caused the original pump to fail.
• Check the Plastic Housing: Inspect the white plastic housing of the module for any cracks or damage. A cracked housing can cause fuel pressure leaks inside the tank.
• Examine the Float Arm: Ensure the metal float arm and the attached float are intact and move freely. A bent or damaged arm will cause inaccurate fuel gauge readings.
• Consider Mileage: Choose a part from a vehicle with the lowest possible mileage. While fuel pumps can last over 100,000 miles, their lifespan can be shortened by factors like frequently running the tank low on fuel.

Cost Comparison

Replacing the fuel pump can be expensive, especially at a dealership. Here is a general cost breakdown, which can vary by location and supplier.

Replacement Overview & Difficulty

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2014-2017 Nissan Quest is a moderately difficult job that a skilled DIY mechanic can perform. The biggest advantage is that the fuel tank does not need to be dropped.

• Difficulty: 3 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
• Location: The pump is accessed through a panel under the second-row seats on the driver's side. This requires removing the seats and pulling back the carpet to get to the access plate.

Key Replacement Steps:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Relieve the fuel system pressure. This can be done by pulling the fuel pump fuse and running the engine until it stalls.
3. Remove the second-row seats to access the floor carpet.
4. Pull back the carpet to expose the fuel pump access cover. Remove the cover.
5. Thoroughly clean the area around the pump module to prevent dirt from falling into the tank.
6. Disconnect the electrical connector and fuel lines.
7. Use a fuel tank lock ring tool (or a brass punch and hammer, carefully) to turn the lock ring counter-clockwise and remove it.
8. Carefully lift the old fuel pump assembly out of the tank.
9. Remove the old tank seal/gasket and clean the sealing surface.
10. Install the new tank seal, then carefully lower the new pump assembly into the tank.
11. Reinstall the lock ring, reconnect the lines and electrical connector, and reassemble the interior.
🎬 See this step-by-step fuel pump replacement walkthrough

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)