P2287 Intermittent Injector Control Pressure Sensor Circuit

How severe is this DTC?

The severity of this code is normally moderate, but P2287 can be serious and cause internal engine damage if not corrected in a timely manner.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2287 trouble code may include:

Engine may not start
Low fuel pressure
Low oil pressure
Check engine light on

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this P2287 code may include:

Faulty injector control pressure sensor
Malfunctioning oil pump
Defective fuel pump
Low oil or fuel level
Faulty or damaged wiring
Loose or faulty control module ground strap
Corroded, damaged, or loose connector
Faulty fuse or fusible link (if applicable)
Faulty PCM

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2287?

The first step in troubleshooting 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 oil and fuel levels to ensure they are adequate. Then locate all components associated with the injector control pressure sensor circuit and look for obvious physical damage. Perform a thorough visual inspection to check that the associated wiring has no obvious defects such as chafing, rubbing, bare wires, or burn marks. Next, check connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This process should include all wiring connectors and connections to the injector control pressure sensor, PCM, and fuel pump. Consult vehicle-specific technical data to see if a fuse or fusible link is incorporated into the circuit.

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. In this situation, a fuel and oil pressure gauge may be the ideal tool to facilitate the troubleshooting process.

Voltage Checks

A reference voltage of approximately five volts is normally supplied to the injector control pressure sensor from the PCM under most circumstances. The reference voltage and acceptable ranges may vary depending on the specific vehicle and circuit configuration. Specific technical data will include troubleshooting charts and the proper sequence to follow to help you reach an accurate diagnosis.

If this process identifies a missing 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 must be repaired or replaced. A continuity test from the PCM control to the chassis will confirm the serviceability of the ground straps and wires. The presence of resistance indicates a loose connection or possible corrosion.

What are the common repairs for this code?

Adding oil or fuel
Replacing the injector control pressure (ICP) sensor
Replacing the fuel pump
Replacing the oil pump
Cleaning corrosion from connectors
Repairing or replacing faulty wiring
Replacing a blown fuse or fusible link (if applicable)
Repairing or replacing faulty ground straps
Replacing the PCM

Common Mistake

Replacing the injector control pressure sensor or fuel pump when faulty wiring is causing this issue.
Fortunately, the information in this article has been helpful in guiding you in the right direction to correct the issue with the injector control pressure sensor circuit error code. This article is strictly informational, and the technical data and specific service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.

P2288 Injector Control Pressure Too High

Severity of Code P2288:
This code is classified as severe because associated failures can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Common Symptoms:

Engine does not start
Excessive exhaust smoke
Abnormal noises from the engine compartment

Potential Causes:

Faulty high-pressure injection pressure sensor.
Open or shorted control circuits.
Insufficient engine oil level.
Engine oil pressure too low.

Troubleshooting Procedure:

Preliminary Check:
- Check and correct the engine oil level.
- Verify that no oil warning light (pressure or level) is illuminated. If present, perform a manual oil pressure test.
- (Note: Oil pressure is crucial for engine timing, which controls high-pressure injection. Low pressure disrupts this timing).
Required Equipment:
- Diagnostic scanner.
- Digital multimeter (DVOM).
- Reliable technical documentation specific to the vehicle.
Prior Research (Time-Saving):
- Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) corresponding to code P2288, the vehicle (year, make, model, engine), and observed symptoms.
Initial Diagnosis:
- Connect the scanner, retrieve all fault codes and freeze frame data. Record them.
- Clear the codes and perform a road test until:
  - Code P2288 is restored: Continue diagnosis.
  - PCM enters readiness mode: The code is intermittent. The fault likely needs to worsen for precise diagnosis.
Electrical Inspection and Testing:
- Use technical documentation to identify schematics, connectors, and component locations involved.
- Visually inspect wiring and connectors associated with the high-pressure injection system. Repair or replace any cut, burnt, or damaged wiring.
- Test voltage and ground at the injection pressure sensor terminals with the DVOM:
  - No voltage: Check system fuses. Replace faulty fuses.
  - Voltage present: Test the circuit at the PCM connector.
    - No voltage at PCM: Suspect an open circuit between the sensor and PCM.
    - Voltage present at PCM: Suspect programming error or faulty PCM.
Component Testing:
- Test the high-pressure injection pressure sensor with the DVOM. If it does not meet manufacturer specifications, replace it.

Important Note:
Although theoretically possible on some gasoline engines, code P2288 is most commonly encountered on high-pressure injection diesel engines, typically related to an engine timing issue.

P2289 Injector Control Pressure Too High – Engine Stopped

How severe is this DTC?

Conditions that contribute to a stored P2289 code could lead to catastrophic engine damage. This is why this code must be classified as severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2289 fault code may include:

No start condition
Excessive exhaust smoke
Unusual noises from the engine compartment

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

Faulty high-pressure injection pressure sensor
Open or shorted control circuits
Low oil level
Low oil pressure

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2289?

Start by ensuring the engine is filled with oil to the proper level and that no oil pressure or oil level warning lights are illuminated. If this is the case, a manual oil pressure test may be necessary. Engine timing components are affected by engine oil pressure. High-pressure injection operation is driven using engine timing components. If engine oil pressure is low, injection timing can be negatively affected.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P2289 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 P2289 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 voltage and ground circuits at the injection system pressure sensors. 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.

Test the injection pressure sensor with the DVOM. If it does not meet manufacturer specifications, consider it faulty.

Although this type of code is listed on some gasoline applications, I have seen it exclusively in high-pressure diesel injection applications where an engine timing issue had occurred.

P228A Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 – Forced Engine Shutdown

How severe is this DTC?

Since insufficient/excessive fuel pressure can damage the internal engine and catalytic converter and lead to various driving issues, a P228A code should be classified as severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P228A fault code may include:

No start condition
Engine misfire codes and idle control codes may also accompany a P228A
Reduced fuel efficiency
Delayed starting when the engine is cold
Black smoke from the exhaust system

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this code may include:

Low engine oil level/pressure
Engine improperly timed
Faulty fuel pressure sensor
Faulty fuel pressure regulator
Shorted or open wiring or connectors in the fuel pressure regulator control circuit
Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

What are the troubleshooting steps for P228A?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P228A code.

You can save time by looking for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the recorded 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.

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 P228A to be stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code is restored, continue with the diagnosis.

You can obtain connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, component location diagrams, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts (related to the code and the specific 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 voltage and ground circuits at the electronic fuel regulator (1) and fuel pressure sensors. If no voltage is detected, check the system fuses. Replace any blown or faulty fuses as needed and retest.

Test the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pressure sensor with the DVOM. If either does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications, consider it faulty.

If the fuel regulator (1) and sensor(s) appear to be functioning correctly, use a manual pressure gauge to test the actual fuel pressure on the rail to replicate the failure condition.

The fuel rail and associated components may be under (extremely) high pressure
Be cautious when removing the fuel pressure sensor or fuel pressure regulator
Fuel pressure tests should be performed with the ignition switch in the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) position

P228B Fuel Pressure Regulator 2 – Engine Forced Shutdown

How serious is this DTC?

Since insufficient/excessive fuel pressure can damage the internal engine and converter and lead to various driving issues, a P228B code should be classified as serious.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P228B fault code may include:

No start condition
Engine misfire codes and idle control codes may also accompany a P228B
Reduced fuel efficiency
Delayed starting when the engine is cold
Black smoke from the exhaust system

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this code may include:

Low engine oil level/pressure
Engine improperly timed
Faulty fuel pressure sensor
Faulty fuel pressure regulator
Shorted or open wiring or connectors in the fuel pressure regulator control circuit
Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

What are the troubleshooting steps for P228B?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P228B code.

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 P228B 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 the specific 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 voltage and ground circuits at the electronic fuel regulator (2) and fuel pressure sensors. If no voltage is detected, check the system fuses. Replace any blown or faulty fuses as needed and retest.

Test the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pressure sensor with the DVOM. If either does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications, consider it faulty.

If the fuel regulator (2) and sensor(s) appear to be functioning correctly, use a manual pressure gauge to test the actual fuel pressure on the rail to replicate the failure condition.

The fuel rail and associated components may be under (extremely) high pressure
Be cautious when removing the fuel pressure sensor or fuel pressure regulator
Fuel pressure tests should be performed with the ignition switch in the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) position

P228C Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Exceeded Limits – Pressure Too Low

Explanation of Code P228C: “Fuel Pressure Regulator Malfunction”

Severity

Level: 🔴 High (risk of engine and catalytic converter damage).
Urgency:
Hard starting (especially when cold).
Risk of knocking/pre-ignition (piston damage).

Common Symptoms

🚨 Check engine light on (MIL) with code P228C and associated codes (P0300, P0171).
⛽ Excessive fuel consumption (black smoke from exhaust).
🐌 Loss of power under load.
🔄 Unstable idle or cold stalling.

Main Causes

Fuel pressure problems:

Faulty pressure regulator (stuck or internal leak).
Defective fuel pressure sensor (incorrect readings).

Mechanical problems:

Weak fuel pump or clogged filter.
Incorrect timing (improperly set timing belt/chain).

Electrical failures:

Short circuit/open in the regulator circuit.
Faulty PCM (software or hardware error).

Diagnostic Procedure (Detailed Steps)

Step 1: Search for TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins)

Example: TSB 18-NA-355 for some GM vehicles (fuel pressure regulator issues).

Step 2: Fuel Pressure Test

Tools: High-pressure gauge (e.g., OEM 25365) + rail adapter.
Procedure:

Connect the gauge to the rail’s Schrader valve.
Ignition ON (KOEO) → Pressure should reach 4-6 bar (gasoline) / 300-400 bar (diesel).
If pressure is low: Check pump, filter, and regulator.

Step 3: Pressure Regulator Test

Multimeter:
Measure regulator resistance (typical value: 10-20 Ω).
Check supply voltage (12V) and PCM signal (PWM signal).

Step 4: PCM Circuit Inspection

Continuity: Test wires between regulator and PCM.
Short circuits: Check for no contact with ground or +12V.

Solutions & Costs

Problem	Solution	Average Cost
Faulty pressure regulator	Replacement	€100 – €300
Faulty pressure sensor	Replacement	€80 – €200
Weak fuel pump	Replacement	€300 – €800
PCM reprogramming	Software update	€100 – €350

Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Forgetting to depressurize the system: Risk of fuel spray (follow safety procedures).
❌ Ignoring engine timing: Check timing with a cam gauge.

Frequently Affected Models

Volkswagen Golf TSI (1.4L/2.0L): Faulty regulator.
Ford Focus EcoBoost: Pressure sensor issues.
Opel Insignia (2.0L CDTi): Internal regulator leaks.

Practical Case

Problem: Code P228C on a Peugeot 308 1.6 THP with black smoke.
Diagnosis: Pressure regulator stuck in open position.
Solution: Regulator replacement (€220) + injector cleaning.

Pro Tips

Use an advanced scanner: View the PID “Fuel Rail Pressure” for real-time data.
Test under load: Reproduce the fault by driving at 3000 RPM to observe pressure.

If the problem persists, consult a professional equipped with high-pressure diagnostic tools (e.g., Bosch FSA 720)! 🔧🚗⛽

P228D Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Exceeded Limits – Pressure Too High

How serious is this DTC?

Since insufficient/excessive fuel pressure can damage the internal engine and catalytic converter and lead to various driving issues, a P228D code should be classified as serious.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P228D trouble code may include:

Engine misfire codes and idle control codes may also accompany a P228D
Reduced fuel efficiency
Delayed starting when the engine is cold
Black smoke from the exhaust system

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

The engine is not timed correctly
Low engine oil pressure
Faulty fuel pressure sensor
Faulty fuel pressure regulator
Shorted or open wiring or connectors in the fuel pressure regulator control circuit
Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

What are the troubleshooting steps for P228D?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P228D code.

You can save time by searching for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the recorded 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.

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 P228D 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 diagrams, component location diagrams, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts (related to the code and the vehicle in question) 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.

Test the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pressure sensor with the DVOM. If either does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications, consider it faulty.

If the fuel regulator (1) and sensor(s) appear to be functioning correctly, use a manual pressure gauge to test the actual fuel pressure at the rail to reproduce the failure condition.

The fuel rail and associated components may be under (extremely) high pressure
Be cautious when removing the fuel pressure sensor or fuel pressure regulator
Fuel pressure tests should be performed with the ignition switch in the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) position

P228E Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Exceeded Learning Limits – Too Low

How severe is this DTC?

Since insufficient/excessive fuel pressure can damage the internal engine and catalytic converter and lead to various driving issues, a P228E code should be classified as severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P228E trouble code may include:

No start condition
Engine misfire codes and idle control codes may also accompany a P228E
Reduced fuel efficiency
Delayed starting when the engine is cold
Black smoke from the exhaust system

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

Engine not timed correctly
Low engine oil pressure
Faulty fuel pressure sensor
Faulty fuel pressure regulator
Shorted or open wiring or connectors in the fuel pressure regulator control circuit
Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

What are the troubleshooting steps for P228E?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P228E code.

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 P228E 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 the vehicle in question) using your vehicle information source.

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

Use the DVOM to test the voltage and ground circuits at the electronic fuel regulator (1) and fuel pressure sensors. If no voltage is detected, check the system fuses. Replace blown or faulty fuses as needed and retest.

Test the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pressure sensor with the DVOM. If either does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications, consider it faulty.

If the fuel regulator (1) and sensor(s) appear to be functioning correctly, use a manual pressure gauge to test the actual fuel pressure on the rail to reproduce the failure condition.

The fuel rail and associated components may be under (extremely) high pressure
Be cautious when removing the fuel pressure sensor or fuel pressure regulator
Fuel pressure tests should be performed with the ignition switch in the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) position

P228F Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Limit Exceeded – Too High

How severe is this DTC?

Since insufficient/excessive fuel pressure can damage the internal engine and catalytic converter and lead to various driving issues, a P228F code should be classified as severe.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P228F fault code may include:

No start condition
Engine misfire codes and idle control codes may also accompany a P228F
Reduced fuel efficiency
Delayed starting when the engine is cold
Black smoke from the exhaust system

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

The engine is not timed correctly
Low engine oil level/pressure
Faulty fuel pressure sensor
Faulty fuel pressure regulator
Shorted or open wiring or connectors in the fuel pressure regulator control circuit
Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

What are the troubleshooting steps for P228F?

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P228F code.

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 P228F to be stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code is restored, proceed with the diagnosis.

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

Test the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pressure sensor with the DVOM. If either does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications, consider it faulty.

If the fuel regulator (1) and sensor(s) appear to be functioning correctly, use a manual pressure gauge to test the actual fuel pressure on the rail to reproduce the failure condition.

The fuel rail and associated components may be under (extremely) high pressure
Be cautious when removing the fuel pressure sensor or fuel pressure regulator
Fuel pressure tests should be performed with the ignition switch in the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) position

P2290 Injector Control Pressure Too Low

How severe is this DTC?

The conditions contributing to a stored P2290 code could lead to catastrophic engine damage. This is why this code must be classified as severe.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2290 fault code may include:

No start condition
Excessive exhaust smoke
Unusual engine compartment noises

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this code may include:

Faulty high-pressure injection pressure sensor
Open or shorted control circuits
Low oil level
Low oil pressure

What are the troubleshooting steps for P2290?

Start by ensuring the engine is filled with oil to the proper level and that no oil pressure or oil level warning lights are illuminated. If this is the case, a manual oil pressure test may be necessary. Engine timing components are affected by engine oil pressure. High-pressure injection operation is actuated using engine timing components. If engine oil pressure is low, injection timing may be negatively affected.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information to accurately diagnose a P2290 code.

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 P2290 to be stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code is restored, proceed with the diagnosis.

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 voltage and ground circuits at the injection system pressure sensors. If no voltage is detected, check the system fuses. Replace blown or faulty fuses as needed.

Test the injection pressure sensor with the DVOM. If it does not meet manufacturer specifications, consider it faulty.
Although this type of code is listed on some gasoline applications, I have seen it exclusively in diesel applications where an engine timing and/or lubrication issue had occurred.