P0087 Engine Trouble Code - Inspection & Fix

What Does the P0087 Code Mean?

The P0087 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is Fuel Rail/System Pressure - Too Low, indicating a fuel system problem. This code is very similar to the P0088 code.

P0087 is a general OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates a fault within the fuel delivery system. This code is set once the ECM has detected low fuel pressure at the fuel pressure sensor. Low fuel pressure causes the Check Engine Light to trigger by the ECM and a failsafe mode is enacted to prevent damage until repaired.

What Causes the P0087 Code?

The most common causes of the P0087 code are as follows:

• The most common cause is a clogged fuel screen or filter
• A failing fuel pump
• A restricted fuel line
• Improperly reading fuel pressure sensor will set P0087 as well

Symptoms of the P0087 Code

The following are all common symptoms the P0087 will show:

• Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard
• Vehicle may run poorly
• Loss of engine power, noticed during acceleration
• Engine misfire
• Vehicle may stop running

How YourMechanic Diagnoses the P0087 Code

A mobile mechanic from your mechanic will come to you at your convenience and use the following steps to diagnose why the P0087 code has been set:

• One of our mobile mechanics will begin by using a scan tool to read any codes present.
• Once these codes are identified and the freeze frame information is looked at for each code, they will be cleared.
• Next, a road test will be performed under similar conditions as the freeze frame data.
• If the Check Engine Light comes on a visual inspection of the fuel tank, fuel lines, and fuel filter will be performed.
• Manual fuel pressure readings will then be taken at the fuel rail and compared to specifications. A scan tool will then be used to compare manual readings to what the ECM sees.
• Lastly, the fuel pump will be tested.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0087 Code

Here are some common mistakes made by mechanics at times when diagnosing the P0087 code: * Mistakes are made when steps are skipped or not completed. * Though the most common cause is a clogged fuel filter this will not fix all vehicles and circumstances. * It is important to follow the steps so unnecessary repairs are not performed wasting time and money.

Is it Safe to Drive with the P0087 Engine Code?

No, the P0087 engine code can lead to serious drivability issues. If the vehicle starts running poorly and having misfires it must be diagnosed ASAP to ensure safe driving. If the fuel pump is failing or the fuel filter becomes completely clogged, this may cause the engine to die while driving resulting in serious issues for the driver. A qualified mechanic should be contacted and repairs should be done to get the vehicle safely back onto the road.

How Can the P0087 Code be Fixed?

Here are the four most common repairs that need to be made when the P0087 code is set:

1. Replacing the fuel filter or screen
2. Replacing kinked fuel lines
3. Removing and replacing the fuel pump
4. Replacing a faulty fuel pressure sensor

Additional Comments for the P0087 Engine Code

A manual fuel pressure tester is needed to diagnose the P0087 code. This allows us to check fuel pressure at the fuel rail and then use the scan tool to check what the fuel pressure sensor is reading. Both of these readings are needed to test the fuel pressure sensor.

An advanced scanner is also needed to monitor fuel pressure sensor data. Some vehicles may not be equipped with an external fuel filter. These vehicles will only be equipped with the fuel screen that is attached to the fuel pump. These are generally replaced as one unit since the gas tank must be removed from the vehicle in most cases.

Care should be taken when test driving a vehicle with a failing fuel pump. If the fuel pump is failing it may do so when driving causing the vehicle to die while driving or not be able to be restarted. If your P0087 code is set on your vehicle, contact a mobile mechanic in your area from YourMechanic to perform a diagnostic.