P0230 Malfunction of the primary circuit of the fuel pump

OBD-II Trouble Code - P0230 - Data Sheet

P0230 - Malfunction of the primary (control) circuit of the fuel pump

What does trouble code P0230 mean?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Although general, specific repair steps may differ depending on the brand / model.

The fuel pump is driven by a relay controlled by the PCM. As the name suggests, a “relay” allows a higher current of amperage to be passed to the fuel pump without that current passing through the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

For obvious reasons, it is best not to have a higher amperage near the PCM. Higher amperage creates more heat, but may also cause PCM failure if malfunctioned. This principle applies to any relay. Higher amperage values ​​are maintained under the hood, away from sensitive areas.

The relay is mainly composed of two sides. The "control" side, which is basically a coil, and the "switch" side, which is a set of electrical contacts. The control side (or coil side) is the low amp side. It is powered by the ignition on (12 volts with the key on) and ground. If necessary, the ground circuit is activated by the PCM driver. When the PCM fuel pump driver activates the relay coil, the coil acts as an electromagnet that closes electrical contacts, completing the fuel pump circuit. This closed switch allows voltage to be applied to the fuel pump activation circuit, activating the pump. Each time the key is turned on, the PCM grounds the fuel pump circuit for a few seconds, activating the fuel pump and pressurizing the system. The fuel pump will not be activated again until the PCM sees a RPM signal.

The driver in the PCM is monitored for faults. When activated, the voltage of the driver circuit or ground must be low. When disconnected, the driver supply / ground voltage should be high or close to the battery voltage. If the PCM sees a voltage different from what is expected, P0230 can be set.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0230 trouble code may include:

• MIL Illumination (Malfunction Indicator Lamp)
• No trigger condition
• The fuel pump runs all the time with the ignition on
• The Check Engine light will come on
• The fuel pump can fail if the fuel pump and relay are faulty
• The engine may not start due to insufficient operation of the fuel pump

Causes of the P0230 code

• The engine control module (ECM) senses the fuel pump primary circuit voltage as indicated below from the fuel pump relay to the ECM.
• Fuel pump relay power may be low due to a blown fuel pump fuse or fuse, a shorted pump or circuit.

Possible causes of a P0230 code include:

• Short to ground in the control circuit
• Open circuit of control of the fuel pump
• Short circuit to battery voltage in the control circuit
• Rubbing the seat belt causes one of the above conditions.
• Bad relay
• Bad PCM

Possible solutions

Command the fuel pump ON and OFF with a scan tool, or simply turn the ignition key ON and OFF without starting the engine. If the fuel pump turns on and off, start the vehicle and measure the control (ground) current for a few minutes. It should be smaller than the amplifier and remain smaller than the amplifier.

If it doesn't, then replacing the relay is a good idea. If the fuel pump does not turn on or deactivate, remove the relay and visually check for discoloration due to heat or loose terminals. If ok, install a test light between the ignition control circuit power and the ground driver pins (if you are not sure, do not try).

The control lamp should light up when the key is turned on or a command is given to turn on the fuel pump. If not, make sure there is voltage on one side of the coil (switchable ignition feed). If voltage is present, repair open or short in the control ground circuit.

HOW DOES A MECHANIC DIAGNOSTIC CODE P0230?

• Scans codes and data freeze frame documents to confirm the problem
• Clear the DTCs to see if the problem returns
• Check the fuel pump fuse or fusible link to make sure it is not blown.
• Tests the fuel pump relay primary circuit voltage as battery voltage.
• Tests the resistance of the primary circuit of the fuel pump relay for an open

COMMON ERRORS WHEN DIAGNOSING CODE P0230

Follow these simple guidelines to avoid misdiagnosis:

• Make sure the battery voltage is within specifications and that the connections are good.
• Check the fuel pump relay wiring connections for overheating due to the fuel pump drawing too much power and overheating the circuit.

HOW SERIOUS CODE P0230 IS?

• The fuel pump primary circuit energizes the fuel pump relay and may cause the engine to start.
• Low battery voltage may trigger the code if the voltage falls below the specified level.
• The fuel pump may draw too much power and cause a low voltage condition.

WHAT REPAIRS CAN FIX CODE P0230?

• Repair or replace the fuel pump fuse or fuse and replace the fuel pump.
• Replacing the fuel pump relay
• Replace fuel pump only

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS TO BE AWARE OF CODE P0230

The P0230 trouble code is related to low voltage in the fuel pump relay power circuit. The ECM monitors this voltage to determine if it falls below a predetermined value.

If codes P0231 or P0232 are present, accurately test these codes to narrow down faults on the secondary side of the fuel pump circuit.

P0230 ✅ SYMPTOMS AND CORRECT SOLUTION ✅ - OBD2 Fault Code

Need more help with your p0230 code?

If you still need help with DTC P0230, post a question in the comments below this article.

NOTE. This information is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a repair recommendation and we are not responsible for any action you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is protected by copyright.