P069E OBD-II: Fuel Pump Control Module Requested MIL Illumination

What does code P069E mean?

Code P069E stands for Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM) Requested MIL Illumination.

The fuel pump control module (FPCM) is the computer that monitors the operation of the fuel system. It receives input regarding desired fuel pressure from the engine control module (ECM). The FPCM uses this information to determine control of the tank-mounted fuel pump. A fuel pressure sensor (FPS) is used to provide the FPCM with fuel pressure feedback.

Code P069E indicates the FPCM has detected a problem with the fuel system and has sent a request to the ECM to turn on the check engine light. The check engine light is also known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).

Fuel tank

P069E symptoms

• An illuminated check engine light
• Engine performance problems

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Common causes for P069E

Code P069E is typically caused by one of the following:

• A faulty fuel pump
• A failed fuel pressure sensor
• A bad fuel pressure relay
• Wiring problems
• A problem with the FPCM or ECM

How to diagnose and repair P069E

Perform a preliminary inspection

Sometimes P069E can pop up intermittently, or it can result from a dead battery. This is especially true if the code is a history code and not current. Clear the code and see if it returns. If it does, the next step is to perform a visual inspection. A trained eye can check for issues such as broken wires and loose connections. If a problem is found, the issue should be repaired and the code cleared. If nothing is discovered, check for technical service bulletins (TSBs). TSBs are recommended diagnostic and repair procedures put out by the vehicle manufacturer. Finding a related TSB can greatly reduce diagnostic time.

Check the fuel pressure

After a preliminary inspection, a technician will usually check fuel pressure. Actual and desired fuel pressure can be checked using a diagnostic scan tool, connected to the vehicle’s diagnostic port. Desired pressure is what the ECM is requesting and actual is the pressure read by the FPS. Should the two values not match, fuel pressure should be checked with a mechanical gauge. If the mechanical gauge shows fuel pressure is within spec, yet the scan tool shows it is not, a problem with the FPS or its circuit is likely.

However, if the mechanical gauge verifies fuel pressure is not within specification, the fuel pump and its circuit will need to be checked. This is especially true if the vehicle doesn't start and/or the fuel pump is not heard priming when the ignition is turned on.

Check the fuel pump control circuit

Before condemning the fuel pump, its control circuit should be checked. The relay is the best place to start since its easily accessible. It's also easy to check because it can be swapped with another relay found under the hood. If the fuel pump engages with an alternate relay in place, the original relay is bad and should be replaced. Any related fuses can also be checked at this time.

The next step is to check for proper power and ground at the fuel pump. This can be done using a digital multimeter (DMM). If any problems are found, the factory wiring diagram will need to be traced back to find the source of the problem. Common circuit problems include damaged wiring and loose or corroded connectors.

Check the FPCM

In some cases, no power at the fuel pump may indicate a problem with FPCM itself, since it supplies power to the pump. If this is found to be the case, the FPCM's circuit and software should be checked prior to replacement.

Like any other electrical device, the FPCM must have good power and ground. This can be checked using a DMM. If problems are indicated, the factory wiring diagram will need to be traced back to find the source of the problem. Then, any necessary repairs can be made and the code cleared.

If FPCM has proper power and ground, yet it's not doing its job, it must be reprogrammed or replaced.

Note: In some rare instances, the FPCM may not be receiving input from the ECM. This indicates a potential problem with the ECM or its circuit.

Replace the fuel pump

If the fuel pump has good power and ground, but does not operate, it's faulty and the fuel pump should be replaced.

Other diagnostic codes related to P069E

Code P069E does not have any directly related codes.

Code P069E technical details

For code P069E to be set, the ignition must be in the start or run position.