P1200 Code - Fuel Pump Relay/ECU Circuit Malfunction
Quick Answer
The fuel pump speed is controlled at 3 steps (high speed, medium speed, low speed) by the condition of the engine (starting, idling, light load, heavy load), when the engine starts (STA ON) or heavy loads with engine high speed, the ECM sends a Hi signal (about 3.8 V) to the fuel pump ECU (FPC terminal). Common causes include Faulty Fuel Pump ECU, Fuel Pump ECU harness is open or shorted, Fuel Pump ECU circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P1200 indicates Fuel Pump Relay/ECU Circuit Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Fuel Pump ECU, Fuel Pump ECU harness is open or shorted, Fuel Pump ECU circuit poor electrical connection.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code P1200 Description
When the idling or light loads, the ECM sends a Low signal (about 1.3 V) to the fuel pump ECU (FPC terminal). The fuel pump ECU then outputs Low voltage (about 8.5 V) to the fuel pump so that the fuel pump operates at low speed.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1200?
- Faulty Fuel Pump ECU
- Fuel Pump ECU harness is open or shorted
- Fuel Pump ECU circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Fuel Pump
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P1200?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P1200 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
Need more information about the P1200 code?
Need more information on how to fix the P1200 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P1200 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- P1200 Audi — Turbocharger Recirculating Valve Mechanical Malfunction
- P1200 Buick — Fuel Level Sensor 1 Signal Message Counter Incorrect
- P1200 Cadillac — Fuel Level Sensor 1 Signal Message Counter Incorrect
- P1200 Chevrolet — Fuel Level Sensor 1 Signal Message Counter Incorrect
- P1200 GMC — Fuel Level Sensor 1 Signal Message Counter Incorrect
- P1200 Lexus — Fuel Pump Relay/ECU Circuit Malfunction
- P1200 Toyota — Fuel Pump Relay/ECU Circuit Malfunction
- P1200 Volkswagen — Turbocharger Recirculating Valve Mechanical Malfunction
Frequently Asked Questions about P1200 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1200 (Fuel Pump Relay/ECU Circuit Malfunction)?
- Common symptoms include hard starting, engine stalling, misfires, and issues with acceleration.
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1200?
- The code may be triggered by a faulty fuel pump relay, problems with the ECU circuit, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning fuel pump.
3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1200?
- Diagnosis typically involves checking the fuel pump relay, inspecting the ECU circuit connections, testing the fuel pump, and examining the wiring for any damage.
4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P1200 at home?
- Depending on the cause, a DIY enthusiast may be able to repair the issue by replacing the fuel pump relay, repairing wiring connections, or swapping out the fuel pump.
5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P1200 present?
- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code as it can lead to potential engine issues and safety concerns due to fuel delivery problems.
6. What are some tips for preventing OBDII code P1200 from recurring?
- Regularly maintaining your fuel system, checking the condition of the fuel pump relay, and ensuring proper ECU functioning can help prevent this code from reoccurring.
7. How urgent is it to address OBDII code P1200?
- It is important to address this code promptly to avoid potential engine performance issues and prevent further damage to the fuel system components.
8. Can weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code P1200?
- Extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can sometimes exacerbate existing issues related to the fuel pump relay or ECU circuit, leading to the triggering of this code.
9. Will disconnecting the battery reset OBDII code P1200?
- Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear once the vehicle is driven again.
10. Are there any specific vehicles more prone to experiencing OBDII code P1200?
- While this code can occur in various vehicles with OBDII systems, certain models with known fuel system issues may be more prone to experiencing the P1200 code.
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