P018F Fuel System Over Pressure Relief Valve Frequent Activation
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Fuel System Over Pressure Relief Valve Frequent Activation
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to OBD-II vehicles. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Dodge, Toyota, Ford, Honda, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ram, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
If your vehicle has stored a code P018F, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a problem with the fuel pressure relief valve.
In this case, it means that the PCM has noticed an over active fuel pressure release valve. This valve is designed to relieve fuel pressure in the event that it reaches an excessive amount.
In most cases, the fuel pressure relief valve is actuated using a solenoid that is controlled by the PCM. The valve is typically located on the fuel injection rail or the fuel supply line. The PCM monitors an input signal from the fuel pressure sensor to determine if fuel pressure relief valve operation is required. When fuel pressure is relieved, excess fuel is rerouted back to the fuel storage tank via a specially designed return hose. When fuel pressure exceeds a programmed limit, the PCM applies voltage and/or ground to the valve for a length of time substantial enough to initiate operation and allow fuel pressure to subside to an acceptable degree.
If the PCM detects an unusual number of requested fuel pressure relief valve activations, over a set period of time, a code P018F will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated. Some applications may require multiple ignition cycles (with a failure) in order for MIL illumination to occur.
What is the severity of this DTC?
Because excessive fuel pressure is a contributing factor in a code P018F being stored, and because excessive fuel pressure may result in serious mechanical damage, this code must be considered severe.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P018F trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P018F transmission code may include:
What are some P018F troubleshooting steps?
Prior to diagnosing a code P018F, you will need access to a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a manual fuel pressure gauge (with appropriate fittings and attachments), and a reliable vehicle information source.
After a careful visual inspection of system wiring and connectors, check all system vacuum supply lines and hoses for signs of cracking or collapse. Repair or replace wiring and vacuum hoses as required.
Locate the vehicle diagnostic port and connect the scanner to retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data. You may help your upcoming diagnosis by writing this information down and putting it aside for later. This is especially true in the event that this is an intermittent code. Now, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if it is immediately reset.
Should the code be immediately reset:
Step 1
Check fuel pressure to determine if it is excessive. If there is no evidence that it is, suspect a defective fuel pressure sensor (or faulty PCM) and move on to Step 3. If fuel pressure is excessive, continue to Step 2.
Step 2
Use the DVOM and the vehicle information source to test the electronic fuel pressure regulator (if applicable). If the electronic fuel pressure regulator does not comply with manufacturer’s specifications, replace it and test drive the vehicle to make sure that the malfunction is rectified.
If the vehicle is equipped with a mechanical (vacuum operated) fuel pressure regulator, make sure that it has a constant supply of vacuum (engine running) and that it is not leaking fuel internally. If fuel pressure is excessive and the regulator has sufficient vacuum, suspect a defective vacuum regulator. If the regulator is leaking fuel internally, consider it defective and replace it. Test drive the vehicle until the PCM enters readiness mode or the code P018F is reset.
Step 3
Use the DVOM and specs derived from your vehicle information source to test the fuel pressure regulator according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Replace the regulator if it fails to comply. If the sensor and regulator are within specifications, move to Step 4.
Step 4
Disconnect all related controllers from the related circuits and use the DVOM to check resistance and continuity on individual circuits. Repair or replace circuits which fail to meet manufacturer’s recommendations. If all components and circuits are in good working order, suspect that the PCM is defective or that there is a programming error.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p018f in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p018f and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p018f.
