What is P018C fault code and what does it mean? What is the description of the Fuel Pressure Sensor “B” Circuit Low malfunction? How can I fix P018C fault codes? What are the causes and symptoms of the P018C error code?
What is P018C? What is Fault Code? What does it mean?
P018C malfunction code means “Fuel Pressure Sensor “B” Circuit Low” .
The engine requires different fuel amounts when you drive your car. During normal driving, the pressure in your fuel rail changes continuously. The fuel pressure sensor’s job is to measure the pressure in the fuel rail for non-return fuel systems and transmit the readings to either the fuel pump control module or powertrain control module. This data is used by the PCM to adjust fuel system pressure.
The control module compares voltage signals from the fuel pressure sensor and data stored in its memory. If it detects lower voltage signals than normal, the control module will activate the engine check lamp and log fault code “P018C”.
The fuel pressure sensor (FPS), is typically mounted on the fuel rail, or on the fuel pipe. The sensor has three wires: signal, ground, and reference. The PCM sends a 5V reference signal to it, and the sensor transmits the voltage signal equal to the fuel pressure. The voltage signal will increase as fuel pressure rises and decrease as fuel pressure drops. If the engine is at high RPM, and the throttle suddenly closes, the PCM will decrease the injection time of injectors to reduce fuel injected. The fuel pump still delivers fuel to the rail at the same speed, so the rail pressure and signal voltage rise. The fuel pressure regulator is responsible for directing the sudden pressure increase in rail to the tank. This regulator should not be confused by the fuel pressure sensor. The PCM will keep the fuel pressure within the manufacturer’s range as long as everything works properly.
The “B” The code description will include a label that indicates the fault occurred in the entire system circuit, not in any one component. The letter B indicates fault in the signal voltage circuit, not the input circuit. This fault code is often triggered by a problem such a shortcircuit.
P018C is a fault code that affects vehicles from Chrysler, GMC Toyota and Jeep to Ford to Ford.
What causes the P018C fault code?
Low input codes are usually caused by low voltage (which can be caused by many things), poor connections between electrical connectors or previous repairs to wiring, as well corrosion in electrical connecters. Aftermarket parts, improper installation of components, fuse and relays are all possible causes. Poor connections can lead to high resistances in certain parts of the circuit. Therefore, continuity and resistance checks are essential when diagnosing.
Here are some reasons why P018C should be set.
- – A problem in the “B” circuit or a defective fuel pressure sensor
- – The fuel pressure sensor and circuit are damaged, melted or broken wires and/or loose connections
- Poor electrical connection to fuel pressure sensor
- Faulty fuel pump, or other faults related to fuel systems
- – Defective fuel pump relay
- – The PCM is broken or needs to be updated (rarely)
What are the symptoms of the P018C fault code?
These symptoms may be present if you own a vehicle that has the P018C code:
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- – Misfires on different cylinders
- – Idle speed fluctuations and engine stalling at the idle
- – Engine hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- – Increased fuel use
- – The engine can sometimes run very hard. However, if the fuel pressure sensor sends an incorrect signal, the fuel pump could fail, and the engine might not start at all.
- If the PCM is unable to adjust fuel trim settings, oxygen sensors-related fault codes could be triggered
How to Fix the P018C Fault Code
Check the fuel pressure sensor as well as its wiring. Check for loose connections or damaged cables. Find out if it is. If you find damage, repair it as necessary, then remove the code and check if it returns. Next, look for technical service bulletins related to the topic. You will need to perform a step-by–step diagnosis if nothing is found. This is an example procedure as the tests for this code vary from one tool to another.
Here are some of the possible repairs that could resolve the P018C fault code:
- Repair of damaged, melted or broken wires and loose connectors to fuel pressure sensor
- – Replacing a faulty fuel pump relay
- – Repair of any other faults in the fuel system
- – Replacing a faulty fuel pressure sensor
- – Updating and replacing PCM software (rarely).
How serious is the P018C fault code?
P018C is a fault code that can be categorized as medium-to-high severity. The P018C fault code can lead to engine performance issues. In some cases, the engine may stop working and cause you to be stranded. This code must be resolved immediately.
