P0230 Code: Fuel Pump Primary Circuit — Causes & Fix
P0230 means a fault in the fuel pump primary (control) circuit — the relay/driver circuit that powers the fuel pump.
- Applies to
- All OBD-II vehicles (any make or model)
- Est. repair cost
- $40 – $700
- Time to fix
- 30 minutes – 2 hours
What it means
Causes include a failed fuel pump relay, wiring faults, a poor ground, or a failing pump. P0230 is a generic OBD-II code defined in the SAE J2012 standard, so it applies to virtually any 1996-or-newer OBD-II vehicle regardless of make. Fix the underlying fault, then clear the code with an OBD-II scan tool — it will return if the problem isn't resolved.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- No start or stalling from fuel starvation
- No fuel-pump prime at key-on
How to fix it
- 1
Check the relay and prime
1. Listen for the pump priming at key-on. 2. Test the fuel pump relay and its wiring.
- 2
Inspect wiring/pump
1. Check power and ground to the pump. 2. Repair the circuit or replace the pump, then clear the code.
Frequently asked questions
No fuel-pump sound with P0230 — bad pump?
Test the relay, wiring, and grounds first — a primary-circuit fault is often the cause and cheaper than the pump.
Last updated July 19, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.