P2259 – Secondary Air Injection System Control B Circuit Low

How severe is this DTC?

The conditions contributing to a stored P2259 code could damage the secondary air injection pump. This is why this code should be classified as severe.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2259 trouble code may include:

  • Secondary air injection system disabled
  • No obvious symptoms may be present
  • Unusual noises from the engine compartment

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

  • Blown fuse(s)
  • Open or shorted control circuits
  • Open or shorted pump motor
  • PCM programming error or faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2259?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P2259 code.

You can save time by searching for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the stored code, the vehicle (year, make, model, and engine), and the symptoms presented. This information can be found in your vehicle information source. If you find the right TSB, it might provide a quick solution to your diagnosis.

After connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data, note the information (in case the code turns out to be intermittent). After that, clear the codes and test the vehicle until one of two things happens; the code is restored or the PCM enters readiness mode.

The code may be more difficult to diagnose if the PCM enters readiness mode at this point, as the code is intermittent. The condition that caused the P2259 to be stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code is restored, proceed with the diagnosis.

You can obtain connector face views, connector pinout charts, component location diagrams, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts (related to the code and vehicle in question) using your vehicle information source.

Perform a visual inspection of the associated wiring and connectors. Repair or replace wiring that is cut, burned, or damaged.

Use the DVOM to test the secondary air injection system control voltage at the appropriate connector pin. If no voltage is detected, check the system fuses. Replace blown or faulty fuses as needed.

If voltage is detected, test the corresponding circuit at the PCM connector. If no voltage is detected there, suspect an open circuit between the sensor in question and the PCM. If voltage is found there, suspect a PCM programming error or faulty PCM.

Vehicles in extremely cold climate conditions often experience secondary air injection pump failure due to frozen condensation

P2260 – Secondary Air Injection System High Bank 2 Control Circuit

How severe is this DTC?

The conditions contributing to a stored P2260 code could damage the secondary air injection pump. This is why this code should be classified as severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2260 trouble code may include:

  • Secondary air injection system disabled
  • No obvious symptoms may be present
  • Unusual noises from the engine compartment

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

  • Blown fuse(s)
  • Open or shorted control circuits
  • Open or shorted pump motor
  • PCM programming error or faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2260?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P2260 code.

You can save time by looking for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the stored code, the vehicle (year, make, model, and engine), and the symptoms presented. This information can be found in your vehicle information source. If you find the right TSB, it might provide a quick solution to your diagnosis.

After connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data, note the information (in case the code turns out to be intermittent). After that, clear the codes and test the vehicle until one of two things happens; the code is restored or the PCM enters readiness mode.

The code may be more difficult to diagnose if the PCM enters readiness mode at this point, as the code is intermittent. The condition that caused the P2260 to be stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code is restored, proceed with the diagnosis.

You can obtain connector face views, connector pinout charts, component location diagrams, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts (related to the specific code and vehicle) using your vehicle information source.

Perform a visual inspection of the associated wiring and connectors. Repair or replace any wiring that is cut, burned, or damaged.

Use the DVOM to test the secondary air injection system control voltage at the appropriate connector pin. If no voltage is detected, check the system fuses. Replace any blown or faulty fuses as needed.

If voltage is detected, test the corresponding circuit at the PCM connector. If no voltage is detected there, suspect an open circuit between the sensor in question and the PCM. If voltage is found there, suspect a PCM programming error or a faulty PCM.

Vehicles in extremely cold climate conditions often experience secondary air injection pump failure due to frozen condensation

P2261 – Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve – Mechanical

📌 Meaning of Code P2261

Code P2261 indicates a malfunction in the turbocharger wastegate control system (often called a blow-off valve or bypass valve).
This component is responsible for releasing excess pressure in the intake system when the throttle is released (for example, during a gear change), in order to protect the turbocharger and maintain a quick response.

This code is often associated with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) controlled by an electronic actuator, which communicates with the engine control module (ECM) via the CAN bus.


🔍 Possible Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on

  • ⚠️ Decreased engine performance

  • ⚠️ Unusual turbo noises (excessive whistling or blowing)

  • ⚠️ Unstable or delayed turbo response

  • ⚠️ Possible limp mode (depending on the manufacturer)


Possible Causes of Code P2261

  1. ECM calibration update required (outdated software)

  2. Soot accumulation in the turbocharger system (stuck or seized valve)

  3. Faulty turbocharger or electronic actuator

  4. Damaged wiring harness or corroded connectors

  5. Fault in the wastegate itself (solenoid valve or diaphragm)

  6. Leak in control or pressure hoses


🛠️ How to Fix Code P2261

✅ Step 1: Visual Inspection

  • Check the wiring harness and connectors of the turbocharger actuator

    • Look for cut, pinched, or exposed wires, corroded connectors, or loose connections

  • Check the vacuum hoses (if applicable) and air lines

✅ Step 2: Scan Codes with an OBD-II Tool

  • Clear the codes and observe if code P2261 returns after one or two engine cycles

  • Look for other turbo-related codes that could guide the diagnosis (e.g., P003A, P2563, etc.)

✅ Step 3: Check the Wastegate Valve

  • Test its mechanical operation (no blockage)

  • On some vehicles, this valve is integrated into the actuator or turbo

✅ Step 4: Check or Update the ECM

  • Consult the manufacturer’s technical service bulletins (TSB) for your vehicle

  • An ECM software update may resolve this code if recommended by the manufacturer

✅ Step 5: Replace Faulty Parts

  • If the turbo’s electronic actuator or the turbo itself is faulty, consider replacement

  • Soot accumulation can sometimes be cleaned, but in other cases, replacement is necessary


🧠 Good to Know

  • On some vehicles (especially modern diesel vehicles with VGT), this code may appear intermittently before a permanent failure occurs. Therefore, it should not be ignored.

  • This type of failure can eventually lead to overheating or damage to the turbocharger, or even the engine.

P2262 – Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Pressure Not Detected – Mechanical

OBDII Code P2262 – Turbo/Supercharger Boost System Fault

Meaning of Code P2262

Code P2262 indicates a problem detected by the Engine Control Module (ECM) in the turbocharger boost system. It is often related to a malfunction of the Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT), which is electronically controlled by a Turbo Actuator.

The Electronic Turbo Actuator receives information via the CAN BUS from the ECM module and performs its own diagnostics. If an anomaly is detected, it sends an error message to the ECM, which interprets it and generates the P2262 code.

The ECM illuminates the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) if the problem persists for two consecutive driving cycles. It will turn off after four cycles without detecting the problem.

Possible Symptoms

  • Illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp (or “Service Engine Soon” warning light).

Possible Causes

  • ECM module calibration update required.
  • Soot buildup on the turbocharger.
  • Faulty turbocharger.

How to Fix Code P2262?

  1. Check the possible causes listed above.
  2. Visually inspect the wiring harness and associated connectors.
  3. Look for damaged components.
  4. Check for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.
  5. Clean or replace the turbocharger if it is clogged or faulty.
  6. Check if an ECM software update is available.

If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a turbocharger specialist mechanic.

P2263 Turbo / Supercharger Boost System Performance

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P2263 engine code may include:

Gasoline engines:

  • The engine will be sluggish with poor acceleration
  • Boost pressure will drop below normal levels
  • Unusual noises may be heard from under the hood

Diesel engines:

  • White or black smoke may be visible from the exhaust
  • Lack of power and RPM won’t reach upper limits
  • The engine may not start
  • The engine may race at idle, which could be dangerous

Potential Causes

Experience shows that inspecting the turbocharger will resolve the problem most of the time. Turbochargers have undergone many upgrades, such as ceramic bearings and improved materials to increase their longevity, but they remain the most problematic engine components.

The combination of high temperatures and extremely high RPM is a recipe for shorter lifespan for most engine components.

Over the years, I’ve found that broken hoses or loose clamps causing significant boost leaks trigger this code.

  • Turbocharger may have failed
  • Boost pressure sensor may have failed
  • Wastegate failure
  • Clogged catalytic converter
  • Faulty Injection Pressure Control (IPC)
  • Faulty exhaust backpressure sensor

Repair Procedures

  • Inspect all hoses for cracks or loose clamps.
  • Inspect the turbo oil supply line. Look for leaks that could slow oil flow to the bearing.
  • Inspect the wastegate for proper movement. Ensure it closes completely by detaching the control arm and moving it manually from open to closed.
  • Remove the turbo and inspect the bearing seal for leaks. Oil inside the turbo on either side indicates bearing failure. Spin the turbo by hand. It should rotate easily.
  • Check the exhaust side of the turbo for coking that prevents the blades from operating properly. In some cases, the turbo can be cleaned.
  • Try to move the turbo shaft back and forth. No end play should be present. Look at the sides of the turbo and see if the blades have contacted the housing.
  • Replace the turbo if any of the above defects are present.
  • On a diesel, visually inspect the injector pressure control sensor. Remove the electrical connector from the sensor. If oil is present, replace the sensor.
  • Install the scan tool. Turn on the key and note the IPC voltage. It should be about 0.28 volts. Start the engine. Now the voltage should have increased by 1 volt to 1.38 at idle. The voltage should increase with rising RPM.
  • Check the EGR pressure sensor line for corrosion or contamination causing blockage. Check the electrical connector.
  • With engine running, check the intake boost pressure sensor for a consistent signal on the scan tool. Inspect the electrical connector to see if it’s loose or if pins are bent.

P2264 Fuel Water Sensor Circuit

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code can vary greatly from a simple check engine light or water in fuel light on a vehicle that starts and runs to an automobile that stalls, misfires, or won’t start at all. Damage to the fuel system and internal engine components can occur if this situation is not corrected in a timely manner.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2264 fault code may include:

  • Engine may stall
  • Severe misfires
  • Engine won’t start
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor performance
  • Check engine light on
  • Water in fuel light on

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P2264 code may include:

  • Faulty water in fuel sensor
  • Contaminated fuel
  • Blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Faulty or worn fuel filter
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Faulty ECU

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2264?

The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save you considerable time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to check the vehicle records to see when the fuel filter was replaced and visually inspect the condition of the filter.

The most common causes of this code are a faulty fuel filter or contaminated fuel. A visual inspection of the fuel can be performed using a glass jar. Once a sample is taken and allowed to settle, water and fuel will separate within a few minutes. The presence of water in the fuel is an indication of contaminated fuel, a faulty fuel filter, or both. Next, you should locate all components in the water in fuel circuit and perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as chafing, rubbing, bare wires, or burns. Then check the connectors for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. The sensor is normally mounted on top of the fuel tank on most vehicles.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. The ideal tool to use in this situation is an oscilloscope, if available. The O-scope will provide an accurate illustration of the signal pulses and frequency levels that will be proportional to the level of fuel contamination. The typical frequency range is 50 to 150 hertz; with 50 hertz representing clean fuel and 150 hertz representing a high level of contamination. Voltage requirements and signal pulses vary depending on the specific year and model of the vehicle.

Voltage Checks

The water in fuel sensor is typically supplied with a voltage reference of approximately 5 volts from the PCM. If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to verify the integrity of the wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and should be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

  • Replacement of the water in fuel sensor
  • Replacement of the blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
  • Removal of contaminated fuel
  • Replacement of the fuel filter
  • Replacement of the ECU

Common mistakes may include:

Replacing the PCM or water in fuel sensor when damaged wiring or contaminated fuel is the cause of the problem.

I hope the information contained in this article has been helpful in pointing you in the right direction to correct the issue with your water in fuel circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational and the technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.

P2265 Fuel Water Sensor Circuit Range / Performance

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code can vary greatly from a simple check engine light or water in fuel light on a vehicle that starts and runs to an automobile that stalls, misfires, or will not start at all. Damage to the fuel system and internal engine components can occur if this situation is not corrected in a timely manner.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2265 fault code may include:

  • Engine may stall
  • Severe misfires
  • Engine does not start
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor performance
  • Check engine light on
  • Water in fuel light on

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P2265 code may include:

  • Faulty water in fuel sensor
  • Contaminated fuel
  • Blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Faulty or worn fuel filter
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Faulty ECU

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2265?

The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to check the vehicle records to see when the fuel filter was replaced and visually inspect the condition of the filter.

The most common causes of this code are a faulty fuel filter or contaminated fuel. A visual inspection of the fuel can be performed using a glass jar. Once a sample is taken and allowed to settle, water and fuel will separate within a few minutes. The presence of water in the fuel is an indication of contaminated fuel, a faulty fuel filter, or both. Next, you should locate all components in the water in fuel circuit and perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burns. Then, check the connectors for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. The sensor is normally mounted on top of the fuel tank on most vehicles.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. The ideal tool to use in this situation is an oscilloscope, if available. The O-scope will provide an accurate illustration of the signal pulses and frequency levels that will be proportional to the level of fuel contamination. The typical frequency range is 50 to 150 hertz; with 50 hertz representing clean fuel and 150 hertz representing a high level of contamination. Voltage requirements and signal pulses vary depending on the specific year and model of the vehicle.

Voltage Checks

The water in fuel sensor is typically supplied with a voltage reference of about 5 volts from the PCM. If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and should be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

  • Replacement of the water in fuel sensor
  • Replacement of the blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
  • Removal of contaminated fuel
  • Replacement of the fuel filter
  • Replacement of the ECU

Common mistakes may include:

Replacing the PCM or water in fuel sensor when damaged wiring or contaminated fuel is the cause of the problem.

I hope the information in this article has been helpful in pointing you in the right direction to correct the issue with your water in fuel circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational, and technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.

P2266 Low Fuel Water Sensor Circuit

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code can vary greatly from a simple check engine light on or water in fuel light on a vehicle that starts and runs to an automobile that stalls, misfires, or does not start at all. Damage to the fuel system and internal engine components can occur if this situation is not corrected in a timely manner.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2266 fault code may include:

  • Engine may stall
  • Severe misfires
  • Engine does not start
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor performance
  • Check engine light on
  • Water in fuel light on

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P2266 code may include:

  • Faulty water in fuel sensor
  • Contaminated fuel
  • Blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Faulty or worn fuel filter
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Faulty ECU

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2266?

The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to check the vehicle’s records to see when the fuel filter was replaced and visually inspect the condition of the filter.

The most common causes of this code are a faulty fuel filter or contaminated fuel. A visual inspection of the fuel can be performed using a glass jar. Once a sample is taken and allowed to settle, water and fuel will separate within a few minutes. The presence of water in the fuel is an indication of contaminated fuel, a faulty fuel filter, or both. Next, you need to locate all components in the water in fuel circuit and perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burns. Then, check the connectors for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. The sensor is normally mounted on top of the fuel tank on most vehicles.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and the vehicle-specific technical references. The ideal tool to use in this situation is an oscilloscope, if available. The O-scope will provide an accurate illustration of the signal pulses and frequency levels that will be proportional to the level of fuel contamination. The typical frequency range is 50 to 150 hertz; with 50 hertz representing clean fuel and 150 hertz representing a high level of contamination. Voltage requirements and signal pulses vary depending on the specific year and model of the vehicle.

Voltage Checks

The water in fuel sensor is typically supplied with a voltage reference of approximately 5 volts from the PCM. If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

  • Replacement of the water in fuel sensor
  • Replacement of the blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
  • Removal of contaminated fuel
  • Replacement of the fuel filter
  • Replacement of the ECU

Common mistakes may include:

Replacing the PCM or the water in fuel sensor when damaged wiring or contaminated fuel is the cause of the problem.

I hope the information in this article has been helpful in pointing you in the right direction to correct the issue with your water in fuel circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational, and the technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.

P2267 High Fuel Water Sensor Circuit

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code can vary greatly from a simple check engine light on or water in fuel light on in a vehicle that starts and runs to an automobile that stalls, misfires, or does not start at all. Damage to the fuel system and internal engine components can occur if this situation is not corrected in a timely manner.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2267 fault code may include:

  • Engine may stall
  • Severe misfires
  • Engine does not start
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor performance
  • Check engine light on
  • Water in fuel light on

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this P2267 code may include:

  • Faulty water in fuel sensor
  • Contaminated fuel
  • Blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Faulty or worn fuel filter
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Faulty ECU

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2267?

The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save you a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to check the vehicle records to see when the fuel filter was replaced and visually inspect the condition of the filter.

Most common causes

of this code are a faulty fuel filter or contaminated fuel. A visual inspection of the fuel can be performed using a glass jar. Once a sample is taken and allowed to settle, water and fuel will separate within a few minutes. The presence of water in the fuel is an indication of contaminated fuel, a faulty fuel filter, or both. Next, you should locate all components in the water in fuel circuit and perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burns. Then, check the connectors for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. The sensor is normally mounted on top of the fuel tank on most vehicles.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to operate accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and the specific vehicle technical references. The ideal tool to use in this situation is an oscilloscope, if available. The O-scope will provide an accurate illustration of the signal pulses and frequency levels that will be proportional to the level of fuel contamination. The typical frequency range is 50 to 150 hertz; with 50 hertz representing clean fuel and 150 hertz representing a high level of contamination. Voltage requirements and signal pulses vary depending on the specific year and model of the vehicle.

Voltage Checks

The water in fuel sensor is typically supplied with a voltage reference of about 5 volts from the PCM. If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and should be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

  • Replacement of the water in fuel sensor
  • Replacement of the blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
  • Removal of contaminated fuel
  • Replacement of the fuel filter
  • Replacement of the ECU

Common mistakes may include:

Replacing the PCM or the water in fuel sensor when damaged wiring or contaminated fuel is the cause of the problem.

I hope the information contained in this article has been helpful in pointing you in the right direction to correct the issue with your water in fuel circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational, and the technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.

P2268 Intermittent Fuel Water Sensor Circuit

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code can vary greatly from a simple check engine light or water in fuel light on a vehicle that starts and runs to a vehicle that stalls, misfires, or does not start at all. Damage to the fuel system and internal engine components can occur if this issue is not corrected in a timely manner.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2268 fault code may include:

  • Engine may stall
  • Severe misfires
  • Engine does not start
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor performance
  • Check engine light illuminated
  • Water in fuel light illuminated

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P2268 code may include:

  • Faulty water in fuel sensor
  • Contaminated fuel
  • Blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Faulty or worn fuel filter
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Faulty ECU

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2268?

The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to check the vehicle’s records to see when the fuel filter was replaced and visually inspect the condition of the filter.

The most common causes of this code are a faulty fuel filter or contaminated fuel. A visual inspection of the fuel can be performed using a glass jar. Once a sample is taken and allowed to settle, water and fuel will separate within a few minutes. The presence of water in the fuel is an indication of contaminated fuel, a faulty fuel filter, or both. Next, you should locate all components in the water in fuel circuit and perform a thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burns. Then, check the connectors for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. The sensor is normally mounted on top of the fuel tank on most vehicles.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and the vehicle-specific technical references. The ideal tool to use in this situation is an oscilloscope, if available. The O-scope will provide an accurate illustration of the signal pulses and frequency levels that will be proportional to the level of fuel contamination. The typical frequency range is 50 to 150 hertz; with 50 hertz representing clean fuel and 150 hertz representing a high level of contamination. Voltage requirements and signal pulses vary depending on the specific year and model of the vehicle.

Voltage Checks

The water in fuel sensor is typically supplied with a reference voltage of approximately 5 volts from the PCM. If this process identifies the absence of a power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check the integrity of the wiring, connectors, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that is open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.

What are the common repairs for this code?

  • Replacement of the water in fuel sensor
  • Replacement of the blown fuse or fuse link (if applicable)
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
  • Removal of contaminated fuel
  • Replacement of the fuel filter
  • Replacement of the ECU

Common mistakes may include:

Replacing the PCM or the water in fuel sensor when damaged wiring or contaminated fuel is the cause of the problem.

I hope the information in this article has been helpful in guiding you in the right direction to correct the issue with your water in fuel circuit fault code. This article is strictly informational, and the technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.