If your Range Rover fuel rail/system pressure too high error code appears it usually indicates a problem with the fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, or other system components. This can cause poor engine performance, stalling or hesitation when accelerating and reduced fuel efficiency. If you get a warning light on your dashboard, it’s important to get your vehicle checked by a Land Rover approved mechanic.
As an experienced Range Rover Sport owner and enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of engine troubles, but one of the most frustrating issues I’ve encountered was the P0088 OBD code appearing on my dashboard.
At first, my wife was driving my beloved RRS that I only had for a few months, and my wife called to inform me that a fault error had come onto the dashboard.
When she got home, I took the RRS out for a quick drive, and nothing came up – I thought maybe it was the ECU being too cold from the night before.
The following day, en route to work I had around 70-80 miles on the range, so as I pulled out of our driveway the error code came up and I plugged in the OBD scanner.
This code indicated a problem with the fuel rail / system high pressure, and I discovered that the cause was a clogged fuel pump. I got the RRS into a garage and got the fuel pump cleaned to see if that resolved the problem before replacing it with a new one.
It’s worth remembering this is the opposite of the Range Rover fuel rail/system pressure too low warning.
In this article, I’ll share my experience and knowledge on diagnosing and fixing this common problem.
What models are affected?
- Land Rover Defender
- Range Rover Discovery
- Range Rover Evoque
- Range Rover Sport
- Range Rover Velar
- Range Rover Vogue
Signs and symptoms
- Check engine light appears on the dashboard
- Reduced engine performance
- Stalling or hesitation when accelerating
- Reduced fuel efficiency
Most likely causes
- Clogged fuel pump
- Faulty fuel pressure regulator
- Leaking fuel injectors
- Worn out the high-pressure fuel pump
What OBD codes show for Range Rover fuel rail / system high pressure?
- P0088: Fuel Rail / System High Pressure
- P0087: Fuel Rail / System Pressure Too Low
- P228D: Fuel Pressure Regulator 2 Performance
Buying guide: Best Land Rover OBD2 scanner tools
Can it be fixed without a mechanic?
Some simple fixes can be done without the help of a mechanic, such as cleaning the fuel pump or replacing a clogged fuel filter, but it’s important to accurately diagnose the issue before attempting any repairs.
If the problem is more complex or involves replacing major components, such as the high-pressure fuel pump, it’s best to seek professional help.
Parts you’ll need
- Fuel pump
- Fuel filter
- Fuel pressure regulator
- High-pressure fuel pump
Tools you’ll need
- OBD scanner
- Fuel pressure gauge
- Fuel injection cleaning kit
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver set
How to fix it
- Use an OBD scanner to retrieve the P0088 code and confirm the issue is with the fuel rail / system high pressure
- Check the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge and compare it to the manufacturer’s specifications
- If the pressure is too low, inspect the fuel filter and replace if necessary
- If the pressure is still low, check the fuel pressure regulator and replace if necessary
- If the pressure is still low, inspect the fuel injectors and clean or replace if necessary
- If the pressure is still low, inspect the high-pressure fuel pump and replace if necessary
Potential other alternative causes
Restricted fuel line
A restricted fuel line can impede the flow of fuel to the high pressure fuel system, leading to low pressure and poor engine performance.
This can be caused by debris or corrosion in the fuel line, and can be diagnosed by inspecting the fuel line for any blockages or damage.
Wiring issues
Wiring issues can also affect the high pressure fuel system by preventing the proper communication and operation of the fuel system components.
This can include problems with the wiring or connections for the fuel pump, fuel pressure sensor, or other components of the system.
Failed PCM or BCM
A failed PCM (powertrain control module) or BCM (body control module) can also cause problems with the high pressure fuel system.
These modules are responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of the fuel system and other engine components, and a malfunction can prevent the system from functioning properly.
Symptoms of a failed PCM or BCM can include poor engine performance, stalling, and warning lights on the dashboard.
FAQs
How do you fix a high fuel rail pressure sensor?
If the sensor is malfunctioning, it can be replaced. However, if the problem is caused by a more complex issue, such as a clogged fuel filter or faulty fuel pressure regulator, these components will need to be replaced or repaired.
What causes fuel rail pressure too high?
Fuel rail pressure that is too high can be caused by a variety of issues. One of the most common causes is a faulty fuel pressure regulator, which controls the pressure in the fuel rail. A clogged fuel filter, damaged fuel lines, or a malfunctioning fuel pump can also cause high fuel rail pressure.
What does fuel rail pressure sensor a circuit high mean?
The “fuel rail pressure sensor A circuit high” is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a high voltage in the circuit for the fuel rail pressure sensor. This can indicate a problem with the sensor itself, such as a short circuit or malfunctioning component, or it could be caused by an issue in the fuel system such as a clogged fuel filter or malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator.
Summary
A P0088 OBD code indicating a problem with the fuel rail / system high pressure on a Range Rover is a common issue caused by a clogged fuel pump, faulty fuel pressure regulator, leaking fuel injectors, or a worn-out high-pressure fuel pump.
It’s important to accurately diagnose the issue before attempting any repairs, and some simple fixes can be done without the help of a mechanic.