P0001 OBD-II Trouble Code: Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open

P0001 trouble code definition

The P0001 code is associated with the electrical circuit which connects to your fuel pressure regulator.

It also may be related to other codes, such as: P0002, P0003, or P0004.

What the P0001 code means

P0001 is the OBD-II generic code describing an issue with the circuit which runs from your engine computer (ECM) to your fuel pressure regulator on your fuel injection rail on your engine.

The ECM regulates your fuel pressure from your fuel pump going to your engine through this circuit. When the computer detects a fault in the circuit, it will set a Check Engine Light. The code will affect fuel economy and possibly damage the engine.

What causes the P0001 code?

The fuel volume regulator code may have several causes:

• Disconnected plug to the fuel regulator
• Possible corrosion in the sensor connector
• Damage to the sensor wiring to the ECM
• Leaking fuel pressure regulator
• Damaged fuel pump
• The ECM is damaged

What are the symptoms of the P0001 code?

The P0001 code will produce a Check Engine Light on the instrument panel/dash and will likely affect:

• The engine’s performance during driving
• Possible stalling
• It may cause the exhaust to show smoke in various colors from black to white
• Fuel economy will not be efficient

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0001 code?

P0001 is properly diagnosed with a scan tool capable of sensor readings (not just one from an auto parts store). A qualified technician can read the data from the scan tool to determine when the problem occurred, or if it is still occurring. They may clear the code/light and test drive the vehicle while monitoring data to see if it returns.

Based upon the conditions of the testing, possibly clearing the code and performing a road test, further diagnosis may be required. Diagnosis may require multiple electrical tools such as:

• An advanced scan tool to read the ECM data values
• A digital voltage meter with attachments
• A fuel pressure tester

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0001 code

Just replacing the fuel pressure regulator never guarantees a successful repair in resolving your issue. It may be caused by several components as listed above and more.

Performing a visual inspection and testing the car with a scan tool, and other special equipment listed above, will verify your issue before spending money and time replacing the fuel pressure regulator unnecessarily.

Electrical signals require evaluation by a scan tool and voltage meter to ensure that the fuel pressure regulator requires replacement or if another problem exists. Additional testing may be required.

How serious is the P0001 code?

The P0001 fault code could cause your vehicle from running, you may experience:

• Inefficient fuel economy
• Fuel instability which may damage your engine
• Potentially damage your catalytic converters, which is an expensive repair
• Prevent you from passing emissions

A technician can diagnose the problem with proper tools to verify these potential issues.

What repairs can fix the P0001 code?

The most common potential repairs to address the P0001 code are as follows:

• Connect a professional scan tool. Verify the code exists.
• Check for any other faults. Clear the fault code to see if it returns.
• Analyze data from the ECM.
• Road test the vehicle.
• Check to see if the P0001 returns.
• Inspect all of the items listed above. (wiring, leaks, etc)
• Further diagnose the problem with the equipment listed above (scan tool, voltage meter). The signals from the sensor need to be analyzed to determine where the problem exists. If the signals are fine, then we need to move towards the wiring or computer.
• Replace the component, wiring, or ECM (requires programming) which is faulty.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0001 code

Any sensor issue may occur all the time or intermittently. Some fault codes may require more time to diagnose. With this particular code, the solution could be simple or require extensive time to diagnose and repair. Depending on your vehicle, it may take several hours to determine the root cause and repair.

I have experienced this code in the past mostly on Ford vehicles. After using a scan tool and monitoring the voltage, I could determine if the fuel pressure regulator, wiring, ECM, or fuel pump is at fault. With the scan tool connected I typically evaluate the data while checking the fuel pressure and using a voltage meter to ensure all the values match. If the values do not match, then a further diagnosis is required.

The sensor may be the cause, wiring issues might be burning/rubbing on another engine component from previous repairs, rodents like to chew wires, or you may have a bad ECM. A scan tool inspection is required. Then we will determine where the fault lies. We could clear the fault code/light first, then verify if the Check Engine Light returns, and go from there. It may have been a weird occurrence from bad gas or weather, or a permanent problem.

Vehicles with high mileage (over 80,000 miles) may just need a regulator. But replacing parts based upon a code is not recommended.

Need help with a P0001 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.