OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Low Pressure Fuel System Sensor Circuit Low

What does that mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic trouble code can typically apply to all OBDII equipped engines, but shows up more often in certain Audi, Ford and VW vehicles.

The Fuel Pressure Sensor (FPS) is usually found directly mounted into the fuel rail, close to the injectors and the intake manifold. The FPS converts the system fuel pressure into an electrical signal for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

The PCM receives this voltage signal and possibly one more; Fuel Temperature Sensor (FTS) which may or may not be part of the FPS. The PCM looks at the FPS sensor voltage to determine the exact amount of fuel to inject into the engine. This code is set if these inputs stay below a set amount for too long. It also looks at the voltage signal from the FPS sensor to determine if it is correct at initial Key On. This code is usually set because of electrical (fuel pressure sensor circuit) issues.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending upon manufacturer, type of FPS/FTS sensor and wire colors.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P2541 engine code may include:

Malfunction Indicator Light On

Possible no start

Longer than normal crank times

Hesitation during acceleration

Decrease in fuel economy

Causes

Potential causes for this code to set are:

Short to ground in the signal circuit to the FP sensor

Short to ground in power circuit at FP sensor – possible

Failed fuel pressure sensor – likely

Failed PCM – unlikely

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your issue may be a known issue with a known fix put out by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.

Next, locate the FPS sensor on your particular vehicle. This sensor is usually found directly screwed / mounted into the fuel rail, close to the injectors and the intake manifold. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic. Pull the connector apart and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they look burned or have a green tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning of the terminals is needed. Let dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory, and see if P2541 code returns. If it does not, then the connections were most likely your problem.

If the P2541 code does return, we will need to test the FPS sensor and its associated circuits. With the Key Off, disconnect the electrical connector at the FP sensor. Connect a Digital Voltmeter black lead to the ground terminal at the FP sensor wiring harness connector. Connect the red lead of the Digital Voltmeter to the power terminal at the FP sensor wiring harness connector. Turn Key On Engine Off. Check manufacturer’s specifications; voltmeter should read either 12 volts or 5 volts. If not, repair wiring on the power or ground wire, or replace the PCM.

If the prior test passed, we will need to test the signal wire. With the connector still disconnected, move the red lead of the voltmeter from the power wire terminal to the signal wire terminal. The voltmeter should now read 5 volts. If not, repair the signal wire, or replace the PCM.

If all prior tests have passed and you continue to get a P2541, this would most likely indicate a failed FPS sensor, although a failed PCM could not be ruled out until the FPS sensor had been replaced. If unsure, seek assistance from a trained automotive diagnostician. PCMs must be programmed, or calibrated to the vehicle in order to be installed correctly.