P213F Fuel Pump System Malfunction - Forced Engine Shutdown
OBD2 Error Codes

P213F Fuel Pump System Malfunction - Forced Engine Shutdown

P213F Fuel Pump System Malfunction - Forced Engine Shutdown

OBD-II DTC Datasheet

Fuel Pump System Malfunction - Forced Engine Shutdown

What does this mean?

This is a generic Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and is commonly applied to OBD-II vehicles. Car brands may include, but are not limited to, Chevrolet / Chevy, Land Rover, GM, etc.

When code P213F was stored in the vehicle by OBD-II, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a problem in the fuel pump / feed system and the engine has been forced to stop. This code could be caused by a mechanical problem or an electrical problem.

Usually this code needs to be cleared before starting the engine.

Use caution when trying to diagnose any codes related to the high pressure fuel system. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations carefully and always use appropriate protective equipment. Open the fuel system only in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or sparks.

The PCM relies on inputs from fuel pressure sensors, fuel volume sensors, and an electronic fuel pressure regulator to efficiently manage fuel delivery to the engine. In the event of an emergency shutdown of the engine, the fuel supply system is usually divided into two parts. The fuel delivery section includes the fuel pump (or pumps) and all delivery lines to the electronic common rail or direct injection lines. The fuel injection system contains the fuel rail and all fuel injectors.

Several fuel pressure and volume sensors can be included in this type of system.

These sensors are located in strategic areas of the fuel delivery system and are labeled with letters of the alphabet. For example, in a petrol engine, the voltage signal from the fuel pressure sensor (A) in the fuel delivery section will be compared (PCM) with the voltage signal from the fuel pressure sensor (B) in the fuel injection system. when the key is on and the engine is running (KOER). If the PCM detects a deviation between fuel pressure sensors A and B that exceeds the maximum threshold for more than the specified time period, the voltage to the fuel pump will be interrupted (the injector pulse can also be turned off) and the engine will be stopped. way down.

Diesel vehicle systems are configured slightly differently. Because the diesel injection system requires much higher fuel pressure levels in the fuel injection quadrant than in the fuel delivery quadrant, no comparison is made between the fuel pressure sensor and the fuel injection pressure sensor. Instead, the PCM monitors each fuel sector independently and shuts down the engine when a malfunction is detected. The fault area determines which code is stored.

In any case, if the PCM detects a degree of pressure deviation in the fuel injection system that requires stopping the engine, code P213F will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may come on. Gasoline and diesel systems can also monitor the voltage of the fuel delivery components. These components typically include fuel pumps and fuel injectors. Each component is expected to draw a certain amount of voltage under a certain load. If the fuel supply component in question draws excessive voltage at a certain percentage of maximum load, the engine can be stopped and code P213F can be stored. This type of system will also store an additional code that identifies a specific cylinder. When the PCM detects an overloaded component or circuit, code P213F is stored and the service engine lamp will soon illuminate.

The fuel pump, one of the main components of the fuel injection system: P213F Fuel Pump System Malfunction - Forced Engine Shutdown

What is the severity of this DTC?

Any code related to the fuel system should be considered severe and rectified immediately. Since this is a fuel cut-off code, you most likely have no choice.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of the P213F diagnostic code may include:

  • No trigger condition
  • Fuel leaks
  • Additional Driving and Fuel System Codes

What are some of the common causes for the code?

Reasons for this P213F code may include:

  • Defective fuel pump
  • Clogged fuel filter
  • Fuel leak
  • Defective fuel pressure sensor
  • Poor fuel pressure / volume regulator
  • PCM error or PCM programming error

What are the steps to diagnose and troubleshoot a P213F?

Tools required to diagnose the P213F code include:

  • Diagnostic Scanner
  • Digital volt / ohmmeter
  • Fuel pressure tester with adapters and fittings.
  • The source of reliable information about cars

Use your vehicle information source to obtain specifications and testing procedures for the fuel system and fuel system components. You should also find wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, and diagnostic diagrams to aid in your diagnosis.

You will need to clear this code before you can activate the fuel pump and perform a fuel system pressure or leak test. Connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic socket and get all stored codes and freeze frame data. Write down this information in case you need it later. After that, clear the codes and try to start the engine. If possible, have one person turn on the ignition key while the other looks for fuel leaks near the fuel lines. If a fuel leak is found, chances are you have found the problem. Have it repaired and drive the vehicle until the PCM enters ready mode or P213F is reset.

If no fuel system leaks are found, use a fuel pressure tester and follow the manufacturer's instructions for performing a manual fuel pressure test. You will need to connect a tester near the gas pump. If the vehicle is equipped with an external fuel filter, I would place the fuel pressure being tested between the fuel pump and the fuel filter for an initial check. If my initial test showed that the fuel pressure was within specification, I would move my fuel pressure tester to the downstream side of the fuel filter and do another test. If the fuel pressure at the outlet of the fuel filter is too low, I consider it clogged (bad). With the fuel pressure test results in hand, make the appropriate repairs and recheck the system.

If the fuel pressure is excessive, suspect that there is a problem with the fuel pressure regulator.

If the fuel pressure is within specification and there are no leaks, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for testing the fuel pressure sensors, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel volume regulator.

  • If the fuel pump circuit is overloaded after the engine has reached normal operating temperature, suspect that the fuel pump is faulty.
  • Diesel high pressure fuel systems should only be serviced by qualified personnel.      

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Need more help with your P213F code?

If you still need help with the P213F error code, 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.

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