P0230
Fuel Pump Primary Circuit
High· Fix promptlyIntermediatePowertrainGeneric, all makes
What it means
The ECU has detected a fault in the circuit that powers the fuel pump relay or fuel pump. If the pump does not run, the engine will not start or will stall.
Is it safe to drive?
Risky. The engine may stall at any time. Do not drive far.
Symptoms
- Engine cranks but does not start
- Stalling
- No humming from the fuel tank when the key is turned on
Probable causes
Most likely first
- 1Failed fuel pump relay
- 2Blown fuel pump fuse
- 3Open or shorted wiring
- 4Inertia (crash) switch tripped on some vehicles
- 5Failed fuel pump
How to diagnose it
Work through these in order before buying parts
- 1Record the code and its freeze frame data (speed, load, temperature when it set), then clear it and see if it comes back.
- 2Listen for the pump priming for two seconds at key on.
- 3Check the fuel pump fuse and swap the relay with an identical one.
- 4Check for battery voltage at the pump connector while priming.
- 5Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or software updates for your make and model; some codes have known factory fixes.
Common fixes
- Replace the relay or fuse
- Reset the inertia switch
- Repair the wiring
- Replace the fuel pump
This information is general guidance for all makes. Exact causes, specifications and procedures vary by vehicle, so confirm with your service manual or a qualified mechanic before replacing parts.