What it means
A safety-critical fuel-injection fault has been detected and the PCM has shut down the engine to prevent damage. Examples are common-rail pressure runaway, multiple stuck-open injectors, or HPFP failure.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
This code indicates that the powertrain control module detected a fuel-injection fault serious enough to command an engine shutdown. It may monitor fuel pressure and injector behavior for unsafe conditions such as rail-pressure runaway or an injector that remains open; the exact trigger depends on the vehicle.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Common-rail pressure runaway
- Injector stuck open
Symptoms
- Engine shuts off unexpectedly
- Engine will not restart or may crank without starting
- Check-engine or fuel-system warning light may be on
How to diagnose it
- Do not repeatedly crank the engine; record all codes and freeze-frame data, including fuel-pressure readings, before clearing anything.
- Check for visible fuel leaks and inspect injector and fuel-system connectors and wiring for damage or looseness.
- Use a capable scan tool to compare commanded and measured rail pressure and review available injector fault data, following the manufacturer's procedure.
- Test the fuel-pressure control components and injectors with the manufacturer's specified methods to identify runaway pressure or an injector that is not closing.
- After correcting the fault, verify pressure control and safe starting using the manufacturer's procedure before returning the vehicle to service.
Common fixes
- Repair damaged or loose injector and fuel-system wiring or connectors.
- Replace a failed injector confirmed to be stuck open.
- Repair or replace the pressure-control component confirmed to be causing unsafe rail pressure.
- Replace or repair a failed high-pressure fuel pump if the manufacturer's tests identify it as the cause.
Can I keep driving?
Do not drive the vehicle if it has shut down or will not restart; arrange a tow. Repeated starting attempts or continued operation with uncontrolled injection or pressure can cause engine damage and create a fuel-safety hazard.
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.