What it means
Unmetered fuel has been detected and the engine controller has commanded a forced shutdown. The code does not identify the source of the unmetered fuel.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The controller has detected fuel entering the engine outside the metered delivery it expects and has commanded the engine to shut down. It monitors available fuel and engine data to detect the condition, but this code alone does not identify whether an injector, pressure control fault, or another source caused it.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Fuel injector leaking or stuck open
- Fuel pressure control fault
- Engine overspeed from another source
Symptoms
- Engine shuts down unexpectedly
- Loss of engine power
How to diagnose it
- Read and record all codes and freeze-frame data before clearing anything, noting engine speed and fuel-system readings around the shutdown event.
- Check for fuel leaks, fuel odor, smoke, or signs of an injector stuck open, and do not restart the engine if there is visible leakage or uncontrolled fueling.
- Review live fuel pressure and injector-related data with a scan tool, comparing readings with the manufacturer’s specification for the operating conditions.
- Inspect fuel pressure control wiring, connectors, and related components for damage or a disconnected connection that could affect metering.
- If external checks do not identify the fault, test the injectors and pressure control system using the manufacturer’s diagnostic procedure before restarting or replacing parts.
Common fixes
- Repair an obvious damaged fuel-system connection or wiring fault identified during inspection.
- Replace a leaking or stuck-open injector after confirming it is the source of unmetered fuel.
- Repair or replace the fuel pressure control component that fails testing.
- Correct the verified cause of engine overspeed if it is driving the unmetered-fuel detection.
Can I keep driving?
Do not keep driving or repeatedly restart the engine after a forced shutdown, since uncontrolled fuel can cause fire, engine damage, or overspeed. Have the cause identified and repaired before returning the vehicle to service.
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.