P069E OBD2 Code: Fuel Pump Control Module Requested MIL

The P069e OBD2 code is a Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) mainly triggered by a Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM) malfunction, resulting in the illumination of the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp).

The fuel pump control module is usually in charge of the supply and regulation of voltage within the fuel pump and the fuel pump relay. In most instances, the pump controller is usually integrated into the PCM, but it can also be a standalone module in itself. One of the major roles of the fuel pump is to pressurize fuel before it flows into the fuel injection system.

The fuel pump control module performs dozens of self-tests each time you turn on your car’s ignition, and the PCM collects that data before transmitting it to the Control area network (CAN) that ensures that the fuel pump control module and other controllers are working properly. 

OBD-II Code P069E: Symptoms, Causes & Diagnose

Symptoms of a P069e OBD2 trouble code

As a vehicle owner there are ways you know that something is wrong even before the check engine light is illuminated, some symptoms of a P069e OBD2 trouble code that you should look out for include:

• Engine performance issues such as power loss, increased fuel consumption, delayed starting, other common drivability issues.
• Hard to start or no start condition.
• Other stored codes.
• Stored trouble codes.
• Illuminated check engine warning light. 
• Engine not idling at all.

Causes of a P069e OBD2 trouble code.

There are a dozen reasons why the fuel pump control module might request the PCM to illuminate the check engine light, most of which are connected to the circuitry of the fuel pump which eventually triggers the P069e OBD2 trouble code. Some of these reasons include:

• A faulty fuel pump
• Bad fuel pressure relay.
• A faulty fuel pressure sensor.
• Issues with the Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM). 
• A faulty fuel pump controller or PCM.
• PCM programming error. 
• Tripped or bad fuel pump voltage shutoff switch.
• An open fuel pump control module (FPCM) voltage supply circuit. 

How to diagnose a P069e OBD2 trouble code.

Just like most OBD2 error codes a P069e OBD2 trouble code has its possible solutions. However, the most important thing in determining the root issue is triggering the P069e OBD2 trouble code, and this can only be achieved through rigorous troubleshooting. 

To diagnose the P069e OBD2 trouble code, an ohmmeter or digital volt and a diagnostic scanner are required together with some reliable vehicle information. 

The first step should be to retrieve all the stored codes and any freeze frame data by connecting the diagnostic scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.

Write down the retrieved codes just in case they turn out to be intermittent codes. After that clear all the codes including the P069e OBD2 trouble code and then test drive the vehicle until the codes are fully reset or until the PCM gets back to readiness mode. 

If the PCM enters into readiness mode, then the code is intermittent which is usually much more difficult to diagnose, and the issue that might have caused the P069e OBD2 trouble code may need to worsen so that it can be identified. But in case the code is reset, continue with the diagnosis. 

Check to see whether there is a battery voltage on the fuel pump’s control circuit by the use of an ohmmeter or digital volt. Also, make sure that you check the relays and system fuses, and replace any defective parts in the process. If the vehicle has a fuel pump voltage shutoff switch test is also to ensure that it is not defective or has not been activated. 

If all fuses and relays appear to be functioning as they should and there is no voltage on the fuel pump control circuit, an inspection of the wiring and the harness will be in order. Also, inspect the vehicle’s chassis and engine ground junctions for any issues. 

If you detect any voltage on the fuel pump control circuit, inspect the controllers for any sign of collision damage, heat, or water. And if any of the controllers have been damaged mainly by water, they should be considered defective and replaced entirely. 

If the ground circuits and controller power are intact, then it should be a controller programming error and a controller replacement will require reprogramming. 

Common mistakes you must avoid when diagnosing a P069e OBD2 trouble code.

Some of the most common mistakes that you should avoid when diagnosing a P069e OBD2 trouble code include:

• Replacing some of the components without first determining where the issue might be.
• Not addressing any fuel pump trouble codes before dealing with the P069e OBD2 trouble code.

How to fix a P069e OBD2 Code trouble.

Depending on the diagnosis some of the possible repair options for a P069e OBD2 trouble code include:

• Repairing or replacing the defective pump controller.
• Reprogramming the controller.
• Repairing or replacement of an already damaged wiring harness. 
• Repair or replacement of defective relays and fuses.
• Repair or replace any broken, bent, or corroded connectors. 

Tips on how to avoid a P069e OBD2 trouble code in the future.

• If the fuel pump supply codes have been triggered always first diagnose and repair those before any attempts are made to diagnose or repair the P069e OBD2 trouble code.
• Any P069e OBD2 trouble code should always be addressed immediately after they are detected.