Mechanic Replaced Fuel Pump First, Then Said the Fuel Pump Control Module Was Also Bad – Is This a Normal Diagnostic Process?
What is your question?
My 2016 Toyota Tundra stalled while driving and eventually wouldn’t start. I had it towed to a shop. They said the fuel pump failed and replaced it, but the truck still didn’t start. They then said the fuel pump control module (FPCM) was also bad, and both had to be replaced. I was charged for both.
They discarded the old pump, so I couldn’t test it, and no diagnostics were shared before replacement. They also said the battery was dead and recharged it, but I later found out it was bad.
I’m asking mechanics:
Is it standard to replace the fuel pump before confirming the FPCM?
Could both fail at the same time?
What would proper diagnostics look like in this case?
Just want honest input to understand what’s typical. Thanks.
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Hello, Dave here, contributing to RepairPal and providing expert advice since 2010.
Honest answer - and it is difficult because I was not there and did not perform testing, so it's really hard to judge -- but, testing is needed to test for fuel delivery to the engine. It's the technician's responsibility to verify power is provided to the fuel pump and the fuel pump does not respond. This would condemn the fuel pump. A fuel pump control module would prevent the pump from having power to pump fuel in the first place.
I feel your pain as far as -- which came first? It is truly possible both parts were needed. But, I am with you in that there is a propensity to just replace a part based off of an initial test instead of fully going through a whole diagnostic process. It allows the question "what if"... I would always suggest all parts be kept during a repair process and do not understand how it was disposed of so quickly. I would recommend discussing your concerns with the service manager of the shop. Good luck!
