What it means
Generic electrical fault on fuel pressure sensor B (second sensor, e.g. low-pressure side or alternative fuel system).
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Fuel pressure sensor B measures pressure in the part of the fuel system it monitors, such as a low-pressure circuit or another system-specific location. The engine control module monitors sensor B's electrical signal and sets P018A when it detects a general circuit fault that prevents reliable pressure reporting.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Fuel pressure sensor B failed
- Damaged wiring or poor connector contact
- Fuel pressure sensor circuit power or ground fault
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Hard start, no start, or stalling under load
- Power loss especially at high load or rpm
- Possible long cranking time
How to diagnose it
- Check freeze-frame data and live pressure sensor B readings alongside commanded pressure and any other available fuel pressure reading to identify when the fault occurs.
- Locate sensor B using vehicle service information, then inspect its connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, loose pins, or fuel contamination.
- Check sensor B's power and ground circuits under the conditions specified by the manufacturer, looking for an open, poor connection, or supply fault.
- Test the sensor B signal circuit for continuity and shorts, and compare its output with the manufacturer's specification.
- If the wiring, power, and ground are sound, test fuel pressure sensor B and replace it only if its signal fails the specified checks.
Common fixes
- Repair damaged wiring or restore a poor connector contact at fuel pressure sensor B.
- Correct a fault in sensor B's power or ground circuit.
- Replace fuel pressure sensor B if it fails electrical testing.
Can I keep driving?
Hard starting, stalling under load, or power loss can make the vehicle unsafe to merge or climb hills; avoid those situations and do not continue if it stalls. A bad pressure reading can also interfere with fuel control, so arrange diagnosis promptly.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.