What is an injector control (ICP sensor)? What are the symptoms for injector pressure sensor malfunction? How can I spot ICP sensor failure ?….
What is an Injector Pressure Control (ICP Sensor) Sensor?
The injector control sensor (ICP), is a common component in engine management systems in diesel engines. However, it can also be found in some gasoline engines. It is an electronic sensor that monitors fuel pressure and controls the injectors. Diesel engines ignite the air/fuel mixture using compression rather than spark plugs. The fuel mixture must therefore be fine-tuned. The injector pressure sensor measures the fuel pressure and transmits it to the electronic control module (ECU/ ECM/ PCM) for the appropriate adjustments to optimize performance and efficiency.
What are the symptoms of sensor failure in injector pressure control (ICP)?
An incorrect reading of the ICP sensor could cause erroneous results, which can send wrong information to your ECU. When the sensor is not functioning properly, problems like giving too much or too little fuel may occur. This can lead to engine problems, as well as the deterioration and degradation of the air-fuel mix. A faulty ICP sensor can lead to the following symptoms:
Engine Not Starting, or Hard Running
You know that diesel engines require the right fuel mixture in order to properly ignite. A problem with the sensor can lead to catastrophic results. Hard starting is the most common sign of a defective ICP sensor. Spark plugs in diesel engines are not required, so it is important to adjust the fuel mixture for proper ignition. The ICP sensor can malfunction and send wrong information to the ECU. This can cause fuel to the injectors not to be adjusted correctly, leading to engine problems. You may notice that the engine is running harder than usual or it may not start at all.
Engine Performance Problems: Stalling, Missing, Increased Fuel Consumption, Low Power.
Engine performance can be adversely affected by a failed ICP sensor. Failing to maintain the fuel mixture can cause engine misfires, engine speed fluctuations, engine acceleration loss, fuel consumption increases, and even engine stalling. The engine may vibrate or hesitate during acceleration. Other faults can cause similar symptoms so it is important that you correctly diagnose the fault.
Engine Malfunction Light On
Faulty ICP sensors will result in an ECU fault code being set and the check engine lamp to turn on. The ECU stores fault codes in its memory when it detects problems with the operation of the sensor. This causes the check engine light to illuminate to alert the driver.
P2284 and P2285 are fault codes that ICP sensors may be unable to detect.
