P0232 Code: Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit High

On-board diagnostic (OBD) codes are designed to help you identify possible issues with your vehicle. But before attempting any fixes to resolve the codes retrieved by your scan tool, it’s important to know exactly what they mean.

Code P0232 is one of many trouble codes that can be logged and retrieved from the OBD system. Read on to understand what this code can mean for your vehicle.

What Does the P0232 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0232 stands for “Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit High.” This code is logged when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects an incorrect signal to or from the fuel pump.

The fuel pump relay powers the fuel pump. When it is activated by the PCM, the fuel pump receives voltage which it uses to pressurize the fuel system. Some vehicles have feedback on the fuel pump supply circuit. This is simply a circuit spliced into the voltage feed to the fuel pump. The splice is usually located close to the PCM.

The PCM observes this feedback circuit closely to ensure that proper voltage is being sent to the fuel pump. When the ignition is turned on, the PCM or the fuel pump control module will activate the fuel pump.

If the PCM sees an unexpected high voltage when the fuel pump isn’t activated, P0232 might be set. This error code may also be logged if the PCM detects an incorrect signal to and from the fuel pump.

Depending on the severity of the problem, related error codes like code P0233 can also be stored with this DTC.

Note: The definition of code P0232 might be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P0232 Code?

• Bad fuel pump relay
• Fuel pump failure
• Wiring issue
• PCM failure

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0232 Code?

• Active check engine light
• Poor engine performance
• Engine may not start
• Fuel pump runs with key off
• Minimal voltage present in the fuel pump voltage supply circuit

How to Diagnose the P0232 Code

The P0232 trouble code is a generic code that can be set across several makes and models. However, this does not mean there’s a one-size-fits-all approach to diagnosing its underlying cause. The steps for troubleshooting this code will vary depending on your vehicle’s specifications.

Check out this video to get an idea of what the diagnostic process for this code might involve:

How to Fix the P0232 Code

P0232 can share similar triggers and symptoms with other fault codes. However, that does not mean that they share repair steps as well. All vehicles are different, so make sure to refer to a factory repair guide that is specific to your car.

If you’re considering troubleshooting this code on your own, make sure to consult a vehicle-specific repair manual or an online repair database. These resources contain the appropriate diagnostic and repair procedures for this code. Alternatively, you can leave the job to a professional.

Shopping for a Replacement Fuel Pump

A bad fuel pump or malfunctioning fuel pump relay is often to blame for a logged P0232 code. Fortunately, you should be able to find replacement parts compatible with your vehicle at CarParts.com.

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