Error Code P018F: What It Means & What To Do?

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If you are searching about some information related to the P018F trouble code, then you have arrived at the correct place. We have listed out some common symptoms which would occur when this code starts appearing as well as ways to correct this issue.

The P018F trouble code can be defined as fuel system over pressure relief valve frequent activation.

Do you want to learn more about P018F trouble code? If yes, then you must read this.

The pressure in the fuel rail would vary constantly as the overall demand for the fuel would keep on changing while you are driving normally and then the powertrain control module would expect to see a signal voltage from the pressure sensor that would accurately reflect these changes in pressure so that it can maintain an appropriate fuel delivery strategy at all times.

Now when the fuel pressure sensor has registered a signal voltage that would not agree with the signal voltage that the powertrain control module actually expects to see under the specified set of operating conditions or some parameters like the speed of the engine, throttle position and intake air temperature, at that point the powertrain control module would set P018F fault code and this would also result in the illumination of the warning light.

What causes this problem with the Fuel System Over Pressure Relief Valve Frequent Activation?

• Bad fuel pressure sensor
• Defective fuel pressure regulator
• Insufficient vacuum to the fuel pressure regulator
• Open or shorted fuel pressure sensor or electronic fuel pressure regulator circuits
• Faulty PCM or a PCM programming error

1. Powertrain Control Module - The P018F code can also arise due to some issues in Powertrain Control Module. So, it is advised to replace them as soon as possible.
2. Fuel pressure regulator - Do you remember when was the last time you got your car Fuel pressure regulator checked up? A faulty Fuel pressure regulator can cause a lot of issues like displaying P018F code.
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It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P018F here:

Common Symptoms

• Rich exhaust conditions
• Rough idle especially upon cold start
• Diminished fuel efficiency
• Engine misfire codes due to fouled spark plugs

Have a look at some ways with the help of which P018F code can be corrected:

• Fuel pump replacement

If you still face some hitches, then you can visit us as we have wide range of fuel injector tester, fuel injection kit, transmission sensor and many more parts which would resolve your issue.

If you want to diagnose a code P018F, then you would require a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a manual fuel pressure gauge and a reliable vehicle information source

Now once you have carefully inspected the system wiring and connectors, then you should check all system vacuum supply lines and hoses for signs of cracking or collapse. The wiring and vacuum hoses should be repaired or replaced.

Step 1

You must check fuel pressure to determine if it is excessive. If you find no evidence, then you should suspect a defective fuel pressure sensor or damaged powertrain control module.

Step 2

The electronic fuel pressure regulator should be tested using the DVOM and the vehicle information source. Now if the electronic fuel pressure regulator is not complying with the manufacturer’s specifications, then you must replace it and the vehicle should be taken out for a test drive so that you are sure that the malfunction is rectified.

If your car is well equipped with mechanical fuel pressure regulator, then you must make sure there is a constant supply of vacuum, which is not leaking the fuel internally. If there is an excessive fuel pressure and there is sufficient vacuum in the regulator, then you must suspect a defective vacuum regulator. If the fuel is leaking internally in the regulator, then it should be considered as defective and should be immediately replaced. The vehicle should be taken out for a test drive until the PCM enters readiness mode or P018F trouble code is set.

The vehicle diagnostic port and connect the scanner should be located so that all the stored codes and freeze frame data could be retrieved. This information would help you a lot in the upcoming diagnosis, so you must write this information down. Then the codes should be cleared up and the vehicle should be taken out for a test drive to check if it is immediately reset.

Step 3

If you want to test the fuel pressure regulator, then you should use the DVOM and specs derived from your vehicle information source as per the manufacturer's recommendations. You can always replace the regulator if it fails to comply. Now if the sensor and regulator are within specifications, then it is the correct time to move to step 4.

Step 4

All the related controllers should be disconnected from the related circuits and use the DVOM to check resistance and continuity on individual circuits. The circuits which fail to meet manufacturer's recommendations should be repaired or replaced. If you find out that all components and circuits are in good working order, then you must the powertrain control module if it is defective or there can be some programming error.

Be cautious while testing high pressure fuel systems

Faulty fuel pressure relief valve will not cause a code P018F to be stored

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P018F Code

• Blockage in the fuel system
• Fuel pressure sensor failure
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure
• Wiring issue