Fix P228C: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The code P228C: Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Performance – Low Pressure indicates a problem with the vehicle’s fuel pressure regulation, which is vital for proper engine function. Most likely, this issue is caused by a faulty fuel pump, sensor, or an obstruction in the fuel system, affecting the engine’s performance and reliability.

P228C quick overview

Meaning	P228C: Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Performance – Low Pressure
Is it serious?	This code can be serious as it indicates a problem with the vehicle’s fuel pressure, which is crucial for proper engine operation and may lead to stalling or reduced engine performance.
Possible causes	– Faulty high-pressure fuel pump – Worn or damaged cam follower for the high-pressure pump – Defective fuel pressure sensor – Contaminated or low-quality fuel – Clogged fuel filter – Wiring issues or poor connections in the fuel pressure sensor circuit – DEF contamination in the fuel system – Faulty fuel pump control module
How to diagnose?	Check Fuel Pressure: Verify actual fuel pressure using a proper gauge and compare it against desired values. Inspect Fuel Pump: Check the high-pressure fuel pump and its cam follower for wear or damage. Assess Fuel Quality: Check for contamination or incorrect fuel type, such as E85 or DEF in the fuel. Examine Sensor Readings: Compare the fuel pressure sensor’s readings to ensure accuracy. Inspect Wiring/Connections: Check for good grounds, damaged wires, or corroded connectors. Replace with OEM Parts: Consider using OEM parts for critical components like sensors. Check for Restrictions: Ensure there are no obstructions in the air intake or fuel lines. Utilize Reliable Diagnostics: Use a reputable diagnostic tool to confirm all readings.

How to fix P228C – learn from mechanics

I looked into P228C service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information: 2012 Chevrolet Equinox LS 2.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• P228c and P0300 codes set with a reduced power message on dash.
• Replaced transmission fluid, observed low boost pressure.
• Replaced high-pressure fuel pump after finding cam follower stuck in the bore.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• p228c (Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Exceeded Control Limits – Pressure Too Low)
• p0300 (Multi-cylinder misfire)
• Rail sensor not increasing beyond 15.5 mpa when commanded to 20 mpa.

What are people suggesting to fix the issue:

• Inspect the high PSI pump cam follower for wear or flat cam.
• Consider E85 fuel issues and check for ethanol in the fuel.
• Check for exhaust restrictions or plugged socks in the fuel tank.
• Look at desired PSI and actual PSI to diagnose high PSI failure.
• Confirm the function of the fuel pressure sensor, cam lobe, and fuel pump.

What was the final fix:

• Replaced the high-pressure fuel pump after finding the cam follower was stuck in the bore. After the replacement, the customer reported the car was running great.

Case #2: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information: 2013 Chevrolet Malibu LT 2.5L

Issue + Repair History:

• Reduced power with multiple codes: P0089, P0171, P228C.
• Initially suspected transmission issues, then focused on fuel pressure problems.
• Replaced high-pressure pump and then the fuel rail sensor.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P228c: LOW fuel rail Pressure.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check actual fuel pressure using a gauge.
• Check fuel pressure while driving.
• Consider a faulty fuel pressure sensor.
• Beware of diagnostic trees and ensure to check actual pressure and sensor readings.
• Verify if commanded high-pressure changes match actual readings.
• Test circuits going to the fuel rail fuel pressure sensor.
• Look into relevant technical service bulletins.

Final Fix:

• The problem was the sensor on the fuel rail. Replaced the sensor after a challenging removal of the intake plenum. After addressing the sensor issue, the vehicle’s performance improved significantly.

Case #3: GMC

Vehicle Information: 2011 GMC Terrain SLT 2.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• Vehicle initially had a crank no start issue due to timing tensioner failure. Customer approved a remanufactured engine.
• After installation, vehicle had a long crank, poor idle, and set codes P228c and P00c6.
• Replaced high-pressure fuel pump and injectors, but still encountered the same issues.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P00c6: Fuel rail pressure low during engine cranking.
• P228c: Fuel pressure regulator 1 control performance-low pressure.
• Fuel pressure low side: 65psi.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the VIN.
• Look for a bad ground or pinched wire.
• Check the camshaft follower for the high-pressure pump for abnormal wear.
• Verify data with another scan tool and consider an OEM rail pressure sensor.
• Replace the rail sensor with an OEM part and check wiring and terminals.

Final Fix:

• The issue was resolved by finding that the cam follower was missing. After installing the missing cam follower, the vehicle’s performance improved significantly.

Case #4: Volkswagen

Vehicle Information: 2015 Volkswagen Passat S 1.8L

Issue + Repair History:

• The car was towed in due to stalling. It started initially but died after a few minutes.
• After an extended crank, the vehicle did not restart and the fuel gauge indicated empty.
• The vehicle later started with a functioning fuel gauge and hasn’t failed since.
• Diagnostic readings showed low pressure at 11 bar and high pressure at 106 bar, with fuel temperatures reading -40C.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P228c: Low fuel pressure at regulator 1.
• P102a: Torque Limitation.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check the low-pressure pump and wiring for corrosion or melting.
• Inspect the wiring at the fuel sending unit for corrosion.
• Check the mechanical fuel pump for low pressure.
• Begin diagnosis with the temperature sensors and look for a common cause.

Final Fix:

• Replaced the in-tank fuel pump and the control module after finding a suboptimal scope pattern and no visible corrosion. The issue was resolved.

Case #5: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 6500 HD 6.6L

Issue + Repair History:

• The truck has issues with starting and stalling. The desired fuel pressure is 60 psi, but it runs at about 20 psi and sometimes drops to 0, causing the truck to die.
• Even after commanding the fuel pump on with GDS2 and achieving 80 psi, the pressure drops when the truck starts.
• The truck is on its third fuel pump, with similar issues recurring after about 100 miles. The fuel pump driver has also been replaced.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P018b: Fuel pressure sensor performance.
• P228c: Fuel pressure regulator 1 control performance-low pressure.
• P129f: Fuel pump driver control module fuel pump speed signal.
• Fuel pressure checked at 20 psi.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check for DEF contamination in the fuel tank.
• Empty and clean the fuel tank(s) to rule out contamination.
• Ensure the fuel filters aren’t restricted and take a fuel sample to check for settling contaminants.
• Check for a restriction on the suction side of the pump.
• Consider the possibility of an in-tank restriction and try running the truck on a known clean external source.

Final Fix:

• Replaced the L5P Duramax fuel system with a FASS fuel pump after finding no restrictions or contamination in the fuel lines or tank. The issues were resolved, and the truck no longer takes out fuel pumps prematurely.

Advice	Diagnostic Step
Check fuel pressure	Use a gauge to verify actual fuel pressure against scan data readings.
Inspect fuel pump and cam follower	Ensure the high-pressure fuel pump and cam follower are not worn or damaged.
Consider fuel quality	Check for E85 fuel issues or contamination, including DEF in the fuel.
Verify sensor readings	Compare actual sensor readings to ensure the fuel pressure sensor is functioning correctly.
Examine wiring and connections	Check for good grounds, pinched wires, or corrosion at connectors, especially at the fuel sending unit.
Replace with OEM parts	Use OEM parts for the fuel rail pressure sensor and other components due to quality concerns with aftermarket parts.
Check for intake restrictions	Ensure there are no obstructions in the air intake path that could affect readings.
Run diagnostics with reliable tools	Use reputable diagnostic tools to confirm readings and avoid misinformation from less accurate devices.