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Engine-Codes – Ford – P0231 1997 Ford F150

P0231 1997 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The P0231 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 1997 Ford F150 indicates a problem with the fuel pump secondary circuit being low. Common causes include Faulty fuel pump relay, Wiring issues such as frayed or damaged wires, Corrosion in the fuel pump circuit. 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
P0231 1997 Ford F150 indicates Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low .
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty fuel pump relay, Wiring issues such as frayed or damaged wires, Corrosion in the fuel pump circuit.
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.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 16, 2024
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Code P0231 1997 Ford F150 Description

The P0231 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 1997 Ford F150 indicates a problem with the fuel pump secondary circuit being low. This code is specifically related to the fuel pump secondary circuit, which is responsible for providing power to the fuel pump relay. The fuel pump relay controls the flow of electricity to the fuel pump, which is essential for delivering fuel to the engine.

OBDII Code P0231 1997 Ford F150 - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low
P0231 1997 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low

Common Causes of P0231 1997 Ford F150

  1. Faulty fuel pump relay
  2. Wiring issues such as frayed or damaged wires
  3. Corrosion in the fuel pump circuit
  4. Defective fuel pump
  5. Issues with the powertrain control module (PCM)

Symptoms of P0231 1997 Ford F150

  1. Engine stalling or hesitation
  2. Difficulty starting the vehicle
  3. Reduced fuel efficiency
  4. Engine misfires
  5. Illumination of the check engine light

How to Fix P0231 1997 Ford F150

  1. Begin by checking the wiring and connections in the fuel pump circuit for any damage or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged wires.
  2. Test the fuel pump relay to ensure it is functioning properly. Replace the relay if necessary.
  3. Check the fuel pump itself for any signs of malfunction. If the fuel pump is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
  4. Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.
  5. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed to pinpoint the exact cause of the low fuel pump secondary circuit.

Cost to Fix P0231 1997 Ford F150

The typical repair costs for addressing a P0231 code on a 1997 Ford F150 can range from $200 to $500, depending on the specific cause of the issue and the cost of parts and labor in your area. It's important to note that diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, so it's advisable to check with local shops for a more accurate estimate.

What does this mean?

Tech Notes for P0231 1997 Ford F150

For some FORD models:

1. Disconnect the inertia switch harness connector

2. Turn key to ON position (Engine OFF)

3. Measure voltage of circuit between inertia switch harness connector and ground

4. If battery voltage is found, replaced Inertia Switch

5. Clear codes



For natural gas applications, the following description applies to the fuel shutoff valve monitor (FSVM) and the fuel shutoff valve power (FSV PWR) circuits.

The PCM monitors the fuel pump monitor (FPM) circuit. The test fails if the PCM commands the fuel pump ON and B+ voltage is not detected on the FPM circuit.

When is the Code Detected?

The code will be set if a low voltage on the control circuit of the fuel pump relay is detected by the ECM.

Need more information about the P0231 1997 Ford F150 code?

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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 P0231 1997 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0231 on a 1997 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine hesitation, stalling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0231 indicate in a 1997 Ford F150?

- The code P0231 indicates a low voltage condition in the fuel pump secondary circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0231 in a 1997 Ford F150?

- Possible causes include a faulty fuel pump relay, damaged wiring, a defective fuel pump, or a problem with the fuel pump driver module.

4. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P0231 on my 1997 Ford F150?

- You can use a multimeter to check the voltage at the fuel pump, inspect the wiring for any damage, and test the fuel pump relay for proper functioning.

5. Can I still drive my 1997 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0231?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with code P0231 as it can lead to fuel delivery issues and potential engine damage.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0231 on my 1997 Ford F150?

- Repair options include replacing the fuel pump relay, repairing damaged wiring, replacing the fuel pump, or fixing any issues with the fuel pump driver module.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0231 on a 1997 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without addressing the root cause will likely result in the code reappearing once the issue persists.

8. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0231 on a 1997 Ford F150?

- Regularly inspecting and maintaining the fuel pump, relay, and associated wiring can help prevent issues that trigger code P0231.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge fix OBDII code P0231 on a 1997 Ford F150?

- Depending on the specific cause, a DIY enthusiast may be able to address the issue by following repair guides and using basic tools.

10. Will OBDII code P0231 on a 1997 Ford F150 affect fuel efficiency?

- Yes, the code can impact fuel efficiency due to improper fuel delivery caused by issues in the fuel pump secondary circuit.

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