What Is the P0087 Code?
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The definition of code P0087 is “Fuel Rail/System Pressure – Too Low Bank 1,” although in some vehicles, the definition will drop “Bank 1” and just indicate “Too Low.” If your vehicle displays diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0087, it means your powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has detected that the fuel pressure is below the manufacturer’s specifications for the fuel pump driver module or fuel pump assembly. As a generic powertrain code, you may find this diagnostic trouble code in all OBD-II-equipped vehicles with a returnless fuel supply.
You may also be interested in P0194 – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent/erratic
More About Error Code P0087
A returnless fuel supply uses a fuel pump that is pulse-width modulated. This means that the pump can vary in speed, delivering fuel to the rail at a variable rate. The sensor on the fuel rail will monitor fuel pressure at the rail, determining the fuel pressure so that your vehicle can then vary the pump speed as necessary. If your vehicle shows this code, the fuel pressure is below its specifications. The vehicle has called the desired amount of fuel but hasn’t increased the fuel pressure to its desired level.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0087 Code?
The most common symptoms of DTC P0087 all have to do with decreased engine performance. After all, fuel provides power to a vehicle, so if your fuel processes aren’t working as well as they should, you’ll see issues throughout the vehicle. Issues may include more misfires than usual, rough running, lean running, high RPMs, and stalling. The vehicle may consume more fuel than necessary, lowering fuel efficiency and requiring you to refuel more frequently. Finally, you should expect that the P0087 code will result in an illuminated check engine light.
What Are Some Causes of a P0087 Code?
Any problem that impacts fuel delivery into the fuel system can result in a P0087 code. Many problems with sensing the fuel pressure can also cause this code. Here are a few of the possible causes you might want to consider:
- Clogged or blocked fuel line
- Camshaft timing wear on the pump drive
- Broken or worn high-pressure pump
- Faulty fuel pump
- Faulty fuel pressure sensor
- Faulty fuel pump driver module
- Weak or bad fuel pump
- Restricted fuel pump supply line
- Issues with fuel filter
- Electrical issues with the low-pressure fuel pump, fuel rail pressure sensor, or high-pressure pump solenoid
- Critically low level of fuel
Many issues can result in code P0087, ranging from insufficient fuel to kinked fuel lines and faulty fuel pressure regulators. Understanding these issues should be your first step when deciding how to handle the underlying problem.
How Serious Is the P0087 Code?
The P0087 code is extremely serious. Fuel codes, in general, should be treated as quite serious. As the main power source to your entire car, you should be very careful whenever there’s a problem with your fuel. While this code may not immediately result in a no-start condition, you can expect engine performance to deteriorate consistently, which can result in engine damage, especially if you’re seeing issues like misfiring. While it may not require you to pull over instantly and fix the problem, it’s still serious and important to handle as soon as possible.
Can I Still Drive with a P0087 Code?
You will usually be able to drive when the P0087 code is active, although depending on the underlying cause, it might result in drivability issues like stalling and lowered engine performance. However, you should avoid driving with the P0087 code active if possible. The more you drive with this code active, the more likely you’ll see permanent damage. Plus, you’ll spend more money driving your car if the P0087 code is active because the fuel economy is lower.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0087 Code?
The diagnostic process for the P0087 code is exceptionally difficult because of the many possible causes. With as many as a dozen or more possible causes in multiple systems, you not only have to run through various possible causes, but you also have to know how to test different systems and understand the problems they can create. This is not a great fault code to try and chase down by yourself. Talk to a qualified mechanic instead.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0087 Code?
Inspection for the P0087 code is often just as difficult as diagnosis. First of all, you need advanced tools, such as a diagnostic scanner for manual readings and a digital volt/ohmmeter, and in some cases, you may need other tools, like a smoke machine to check for leaks and a tool that can check for sustained pressure. On top of that, you need a reliable vehicle information source, like technical service bulletins, vehicle repair guides, service manuals, and wiring diagrams. This is a complex code to inspect, so most people will get help from a certified mechanic.
Need Additional Help with Your P0087 Code?
It’s very uncommon to be able to DIY your way out of the P0087 code. This is why most people will end up pursuing help from an expert.
You can start by finding an auto repair shop in your area. Since it’s best to avoid driving with the P0087 code active, a local automobile repair shop will help you find a permanent fix without causing more damage.
Additionally, it’s not unheard of to see additional codes on top of this one when you run your code scanner. The OBD-II database at KBB.com will give you insight into what those codes mean and how you can tackle them.
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