AutoCodes – Dodge – P0251 Dodge

P0251 Dodge Code - Common Rail High Pressure Pump Regulator Control

Quick Answer

The Fuel Control Actuator (FCA) is an electronically controlled solenoid valve. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Fuel Control Actuator, Electronic Fuel Control Actuator harness is open or shorted, Electronic Fuel Control Actuator 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: P0251 Dodge indicates Common Rail High Pressure Pump Regulator Control.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Fuel Control Actuator, Electronic Fuel Control Actuator harness is open or shorted, Electronic Fuel Control Actuator 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.

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Code Popularity 18,249

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 09, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0251 Dodge Description

The Fuel Control Actuator (FCA) is an electronically controlled solenoid valve. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the amount of fuel that enters the high-pressure pumping chambers by opening and closing the FCA based on a demanded fuel pressure. When the FCA is opened, the maximum amount of fuel is being supplied to the fuel injection pump. Any fuel that does not enter the injection pump is directed to the cascade overflow valve. The cascade overflow valve regulates how much excess fuel is used for the lubrication of the pump and how much is returned to the fuel tank through the drain manifold. An audible click from the FCA is normal when operating the key from the ON to the OFF position.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the ECM detects a discrepancy between the PWM supplied to the Electronic Fuel Control Actuator and the PWM returned from the Electronic Fuel Control Actuator.

OBDII Code P0251 Dodge - Common Rail High Pressure Pump Regulator Control - AutoCodes.com — P0251 Dodge Code - Common Rail High Pressure Pump Regulator Control

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0251 Dodge?

Faulty Electronic Fuel Control Actuator
Electronic Fuel Control Actuator harness is open or shorted
Electronic Fuel Control Actuator circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0251 Dodge?

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 P0251 Dodge 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.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0251 Dodge Code

1. What does the OBD-II code P0251 mean on a Dodge vehicle?

P0251 on a Dodge refers to an issue with the Common Rail High Pressure Pump Regulator Control, indicating a potential problem with the fuel injection pump or its control circuitry.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0251 code in a Dodge?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting, reduced engine performance, erratic idling, poor fuel economy, and possible illumination of the check engine light.

3. What causes the P0251 code to appear on a Dodge vehicle?

Common causes include a faulty high-pressure fuel pump, malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator, damaged wiring, clogged fuel filter, or issues with the fuel injector system.

4. Can a dirty fuel filter cause a P0251 code on a Dodge?

Yes, a dirty or clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to improper fuel pressure and triggering the P0251 code.

5. How is the P0251 code diagnosed on a Dodge?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the fuel system components, check for damaged wiring, and measure fuel pressure to identify the root cause.

6. Can I continue driving my Dodge with a P0251 code?

Driving with a P0251 code is not recommended, as it can lead to further engine damage, reduced performance, and potential safety issues due to stalling.

7. How do I fix the P0251 code on my Dodge?

Repairs may involve replacing the high-pressure fuel pump, cleaning or replacing the fuel filter, repairing damaged wiring, or recalibrating the fuel pressure regulator.

8. Is the P0251 code specific to Dodge diesel engines?

Yes, the P0251 code is more commonly associated with Dodge diesel engines, as it pertains to the fuel injection system in diesel vehicles.

9. How much does it cost to fix a P0251 code on a Dodge?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue; replacing a fuel pump can cost $500â€“$1,500, while simpler fixes like replacing a fuel filter may cost under $100.

10. Can low fuel levels trigger a P0251 code on a Dodge?

Yes, running the vehicle on very low fuel can cause inadequate fuel pressure, potentially triggering the P0251 code.