P0253 - INJECTION PUMP FUEL METERING CONTROL A LOW

The injection pump measurement control circuit “A” is located on the side of the injection pump that is attached to the engine. This circuit consists of the Fuel Rail Pressure (FRP) Sensor and a fuel quantity actuator.

The FRP sensor transforms the volume of fuel available at the injectors into an electrical response signal, which is supplied by the actuator. This signal is sent to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) which uses it to determine the amount of fuel to be put into the engine according to the required operating conditions.

If the input signal does not correspond to the standard engine running conditions documented in the PCM’s memory, the P0253 OBD2 diagnostic code will be set along with the Check Engine light.

• MIL (Malfunctioning Engine) light on.
• Reduced fuel economy
• In some cases, difficult or non-existent starting conditions may develop.
• Excessive exhaust smoke may occur.
• There may be rough idling or rough running.
• Poor acceleration and loss of power may occur.
• The vehicle may hesitate with acceleration.

The reasons for the DTC P0253 OBDII code being set are:

• Perhaps the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor signal circuit is shorted to the ground.
• The FRP Sensor power circuit may be open.
• The fuel filter may be clogged.
• The fuel pump may be in bad condition.
• The fuel control actuator controller may be faulty.
• Burned, damaged, short-circuited, or corroded wiring and connectors.
• Open circuits caused by engine vibration it’s also a usual cause of setting this code.
• PCM could be defective, although this is a very rare cause.

To resolve the faults that are related to the P0253 OBD2 error code you should do the following things:

• Consult the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) according to the model of your vehicle.
• Check the fuel filter and make sure it is not contaminated or corroded.
• Check that the wires related to the system are not burned, worn, or rubbing against other components. Perform repairs and clear the code.
• Performs reference voltage, ground, residence, and continuity tests on each of the related wires. Compare the readings obtained with those listed in the manufacturer's manual. Repair if they do not match.
• Test with a fuel pressure gauge, the fuel pressure in the rail. The result of the test should be compared with the values given in the manufacturer's manual. If the gauge does not show a drop or if the pressure is higher than the set limit, the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor is defective. It may be sending an invalid signal to the PCM. Replace the sensor.
• Replace the fuel control actuator.