The stock fuel pump in many older Saturn vehicles is notorious for getting clogged. Clogged or ruined fuel pumps don't provide the needed gasoline to the motor, thus causing a bad mixture of fuel to be cycled. Not only can this cause your vehicle to run improperly or not run at all, but it can damage internal motor components. So, replacing a bad fuel pump is critical to keeping your Saturn running.
Drive your Saturn up onto car ramps and place the vehicle in park. Remember to engage the parking brake to prevent possible rolling or sliding.
Climb underneath the vehicle and locate the fuel pump. Follow the fuel line from the tank as the line bends at a 90-degree angle and approaches the motor carriage. Look for a small, cylindrical part jutting from the fuel line, accompanied by mounts on both sides and a valve on the tank side.
Twist the fuel line valve near the fuel pump clockwise with a crescent wrench until it tightens. This will close the fuel line from the gas tank.
Use a 12 mm socket wrench to remove the electrical connection on the pump. This is secured with a simple bolt.
Place a bucket underneath the fuel pump to catch any leftover gasoline that drips out. Use the crescent wrench to loosen the bolt sides on both ends of the pump. Finish loosening the bolt sides while holding the pump. Gently set it in the bucket as the excess fuel in the line drains out.
Slide a new replacement pump into place and re-secure the bolt sides. Cinch them down tightly with the crescent wrench.
Replace the electrical connection, once again using a 12 mm socket. Open the gas valve behind the pump with the crescent wrench.
Climb out from underneath the vehicle and drive it off the car ramps. Remember to disengage your parking brake first.
