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P00C6

Fuel Rail Pressure Too Low - Engine Cranking Bank 1

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By
KBB Service Advisor
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Reviewed by
Gary Hardesty

What Is the P00C6 Code?

Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help

The P00C6 code indicates that the fuel pressure within a specified fuel rail is not high enough. When it is high enough, it allows the fuel injectors to open, then atomize the fuel appropriately when it‘s injected into the engine. However, if the sensor is indicating that the fuel pressure is not within the accepted range, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will know that it’s not enough to do these things, shutting down the process before it starts. This specific code will usually indicate an issue with Bank 1. However, you should check your owner’s manual to see if there are also issues with Bank 2 or if your vehicle labels your issues differently.

More About Error Code P00C6

One of the benefits of modern engines is that they’re more fuel-efficient than ever before. That efficiency has been developed using many systems with highly efficient operating conditions. However, this system has a lot of working parts, and if even one component of that system isn’t working correctly, from the fuel injection pump to the fuel pump fuse, it can negatively impact the whole process. Without accurate fuel pressure, the engine simply won’t start.

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What Are the Symptoms of a P00C6 Code?

Primarily, you’ll see that the engine won’t start. The P00C6 code indicates that there’s a fuel pressure issue, and the vehicle understands that a fuel pressure issue is not just bad for the car’s function, but dangerous in some situations, leading to a loss of power. One of the most common symptoms of code P00C6 is that the engine will crank, but will not start. Although in some cases, the engine may not even crank. You’ll also generally see the check engine light turn on, and you may see other warning lights turn on, depending on the specific problem leading to this code.

What Are Some Causes of a P00C6 Code?

Despite the significant issues that a P00C6 code can cause, the causes of the code itself can be incredibly varied. It can range from a defective or failing fuel pump to corrupted fuel pump driver circuits within the PCM to an issue with the fuel pressure regulator. It could even be the fuel pressure sensor, or a problem with fuel system leaks. Here are a few common causes:

  • Bad fuel pump
  • Clogged, dirty, or otherwise damaged fuel filter
  • General issues with the fuel tank
  • Low fuel level or inconsistent fuel supply
  • Issues with an internal control valve
  • Fuel pressure sensor not reflecting the actual fuel pressure
  • Control solenoid failure
  • Defective or corroded electrical connectors
  • Defective fuel control module

Because fuel system leaks can be so dangerous, it’s critical that you get an expert’s assistance to discern the actual issue causing the problem and fix it.

How Serious Is the P00C6 Code?

The P00C6 code is generally very serious. Of course, one of the first things you’ll notice is that you won’t be able to turn on the engine if your engine is putting out a P00C6 code. That by itself means that the code is serious. Even more importantly, if there is any kind of fuel leak, you need to fix it as soon as possible. Fuel leaks can cause fires with absolutely no warning, which can be dangerous and even deadly. Fixing this code should be a top priority to restore safe conditions.

Can I Still Drive with a P00C6 Code?

Mechanically, it’s not possible to drive when the P00C6 code is active, as it won’t allow your engine to start, and may not even allow the engine to crank. Even if you were somehow able to drive the vehicle, however, it’s not safe, as it may indicate issues with fuel leaks, which can be exceptionally dangerous. If you see this code, contact an expert as soon as possible.

How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P00C6 Code?

There are many reasons why you might be seeing a P00C6 code on a code reader or scan tool, and, simultaneously, there are many problems that the P00C6 code may be causing. Trying to diagnose the issue generally isn’t recommended for DIYers without a lot of automotive experience. You should get help from an expert so that you don’t experience any danger.

How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P00C6 Code?

The inspection process for the P00C6 code can be difficult simply because of how many issues might be causing it. There are many areas that you’ll want to be looking into, all the while thinking about checking for the strong smell of fuel leaks, as these can be very dangerous. It’s also not part of a vehicle that you may be generally familiar with. If you’re seeing this code, your best option is to talk to an expert, who will have the experience and knowledge you’re looking for.

Need Additional Help with Your P00C6 Code?

If you’re experiencing a P00C6 code, you’re likely going to need expert assistance with it. This is not an especially common issue, and fixing it can be difficult. Whether you know that the P00C6 code is the issue or you’re just having a problem when your vehicle is cranking but isn’t starting, an expert can be a great choice.

You can use Kelley Blue Book to find a repair shop in your area that can help you out with this code as well as any other codes you experience in your vehicle. Local vehicle repair shops may be the best way to get rid of your P00C6 code.

Additionally, in some cases, you may not see the P00C6 code yourself. It may be associated with other error codes that indicate similar types of issues. You need to fix all of these additional codes as well, not just a single code. The OBD-II database on KBB.com is a great way for you to understand what’s happening in your vehicle even before you call in the experts to help you fix it.

P00c6 Q&A

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