Fuel Pump Inertia Switch: Location, Function, And Reset (1991-2007 3.0L V6 Ford Taurus, Mercury Sable)

  • By: Abraham Torres-Arredondo
  • Created: 27 September 2025
  • Updated: 27 September 2025
  • Articl Id: 69
Fuel Pump Inertia Switch: Location, Function, And Reset (1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 3.0L V6 Ford Taurus, Mercury Sable)

In this guide, you'll find out where the fuel pump inertia switch is located, how to reset it, and what it does on the 1991-2007 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable.

This safety fuel cut-off switch often causes no-start problems, especially if the engine shut off after an impact like a jolt, pothole, or minor accident.

Contents of this tutorial:

APPLIES TO: This tutorial applies to the following vehicles:

  • 3.0L V6 Ford Taurus: 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007.
  • 3.0L V6 Mercury Sable: 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005.

Where Is The Inertia Switch Located?

On the 1991–2007 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable, you'll find the fuel pump inertia switch:

  • Sedan: In the trunk, behind the trim lining on the passenger-side wheel well.
  • Wagon: In the cargo area, behind the passenger-side trim panel just behind the wheel well.

If in doubt —The owner's manual (if you still have it) will have the exact location. It usually even shows a little diagram of where to find it.

How Do I Reset The Inertia Switch?

If the fuel pump inertia switch has tripped, the engine will crank but won't start since the fuel pump isn't getting power. Resetting the inertia switch is a quick and simple procedure and this is how it's done:

  • Step 1 —Locate the switch behind the trim lining on the right side of the trunk (sedan) or cargo area (wagon).
  • Step 2 —Check the reset button; if it's popped up, the switch has cut power to the fuel pump.
    • NOTE: If the inertia switch has tripped, pressing the button back down will give you a definite, physical click.
  • Step 3 —Press the button down firmly until it clicks back into place. This will restore fuel pump power (when cranking the engine).
  • Step 4 —Start the engine; If it runs, the issue is fixed.

What Does The Inertia Switch Do?

The fuel pump inertia switch a mechanical safety device in the fuel pump power circuit that instantly cuts power after a crash or strong impact, independent of the powertrain module (PCM).

Here's a quick breakdown of how it works and what it does:

  • How it works: A spring-loaded steel ball inside the inertia switch is held by a magnet, and a strong jolt dislodges it, breaking the fuel pump's electrical connection and cutting power instantly.
  • Safety purpose: By shutting off fuel pump power after a crash, the inertia switch prevents fuel spray from broken lines, reducing the risk of fire.
  • Stays off until manually reset: Once tripped, the inertia switch stays off until the reset button is pressed.
  • Can cause the engine to "crank but not start": A tripped switch cuts fuel pump power, so the engine cranks but won't start due to lack of fuel.

More Fuel Pump Troubleshooting Help

FUEL PUMP PRESSURE TEST:

FUEL PUMP DRIVER MODULE (FPDM) TEST:

More 3.0L V6 Ford Taurus Diagnostic Tutorials

You can find a complete list of 3.0L V6 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable diagnostic tutorials in this index:

Here's a sample of the diagnostic tutorials you'll find in the index:

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