P0190 Code: Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit

Reviewed by

William Guzenski, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Contact Center Manager and Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on May 13th, 2024

Reading Time: 4 minutes
Summary
  • The P0190 code stands for “Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor ‘A’ Circuit,” which means the fuel pressure sensor’s voltage signal has dropped below a calibrated limit for a set amount of time.
  • The common causes of the P0190 code include a faulty fuel pressure sensor, a bad powertrain control module, and a problem with the wiring.
  • An illuminated check engine light and engine performance problems are common symptoms of the P0190 code.

In a returnless fuel system, there’s a fuel rail pressure sensor that measures the pressure in the fuel line connecting the tank and the injectors. Its readings go to the fuel pump control module (FCM)  or powertrain control module (PCM). Using the data provided by the sensor, the control module adjusts fuel system pressure. 

The PCM will log a P0190 code if it picks up the wrong signal from the fuel pressure sensor.

What Does the P0190 Code Mean?

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0190 indicates “Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit.” This engine code covers a variety of vehicles with returnless fuel injection systems. 

Also called the fuel pressure sensor, this device converts the pressure changes in the fuel rail into voltage signals that are transmitted to the control modules. The signals are calibrated to stay within a certain range of voltage over a set amount of time.

The fuel pressure sensor converts the pressure changes in the fuel rail into voltage signals that are transmitted to the control modules.

The PCM compares the fuel pressure sensor’s voltage signals with the recorded ones in its database. If the signal drops below a calibrated limit for a set amount of time, the control module will set the engine code P0190.

Note: The definition of code P0190 can differ according to the vehicle manufacturer. Check the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P0190 Code?

  • Faulty fuel pressure sensor
  • Bad powertrain control module
  • Problem with the fuel pressure sensor wiring
  • Base fuel system problems, such as a weak fuel pump

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0190 Code?

How to Diagnose the P0190 Code

Start by looking up technical service bulletins for your model in case the P0190 code is a known issue. Next, you will have to visually inspect the fuel rail pressure sensor and its wiring for visible damage, looseness, or corrosion. You may also need to test the sensor and its circuits with a digital multimeter.

If you’re not confident about conducting diagnostic tests on your vehicle, it’s a good idea to bring it to a professional mechanic. Otherwise, you can go ahead and diagnose the issue yourself. To help you get started, here are some videos that can give you an idea of what the process might involve:

Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor

Diesel Rail Pressure Sensor

How to Fix the P0190 Code

Attempting to fix a P0190 code can become a frustrating task if you don’t have the right tools and know-how to diagnose the fuel rail pressure sensor. Depending on what exactly failed, you may need to replace the sensor or its wiring. In most cases, it’s best to leave the job to professionals.
For DIYers with advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience who prefer to test and replace their vehicle’s fuel rail pressure sensor on their own, it will be helpful to rely on the appropriate repair manual or refer to an online repair database.

Fixing DTC P0190 By Replacing the Fuel Pressure Sensor

DTC P0190 is typically logged when the fuel pressure sensor is faulty or malfunctioning. It’s worth inspecting the sensor to see if it’s due for a replacement. Though it’d normally be tricky to find a new sensor that’s compatible with your vehicle, getting your hands on one is easy with the help of CarParts.com.

Our auto parts are handpicked by a team of professionals to ensure quality and reliability. You won’t have to worry about your new sensor failing any time soon. On top of that, our warehouses are strategically located all across the US. This means you can expect to receive your order to arrive in a matter of days.

To get started, use your mobile device or computer to visit our website and use our vehicle selector. You’ll need to input details like the year, make, model, and engine of your vehicle. This way, you can easily find replacement parts designed to work with your ride.

Don’t let DTC P0190 become a bigger problem than it has to be. Order a new fuel pressure sensor now!

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Replacement – Fuel Pressure Sensor – Direct Fit, Sold individually
$19.49 Price and rating may change from the time content is published.
Replacement – Fuel Pressure Sensor – Direct Fit, Sold individually
$21.99 Price and rating may change from the time content is published.
Replacement – Fuel Pressure Sensor – Direct Fit, Sold individually
$22.99 Price and rating may change from the time content is published.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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Published by
CarParts.com Research Team and William Guzenski, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician