The P0190 code - Definition, Causes, and Symptoms (& How to Fix It)

The P0190 trouble code gets stored in the engine control unit’s trouble code memory when there is a problem with the circuit to the fuel rail pressure sensor.

You can cause this by many things. In this article you'll learn all you need to know about P0190.

Definition of Code P0190

Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor – Circuit Malfunction

What is the P0190 Code?

P0190 is a trouble code that indicates an issue between the engine control unit (engine control unit) and the fuel pressure sensor.

The fuel rail pressure sensor’s function is to measure the fuel pressure in the fuel rail and then report it to the engine control unit.

Trouble Code P0190 Symptoms

When the P0190 code appears, the engine control module will use a simulated value of the fuel pressure instead of the sensor’s given pressure. You will not see any additional symptoms other than the check engine light at your dashboard.

These are the P0190 codes symptoms:

The P0190 Code: Causes

P0190 codes can actually be caused by very few things. This code indicates that something is wrong with an electrical circuit connected to the sensor.

These issues can cause P0190 to appear:

Is the P0190 Code serious?

Medium – The car may go into limp mode if this code is displayed. This will cause the RPM and power to be limited, so you can’t put hard pressure on the engine. This code is unlikely to cause a car's engine to stop.

It can cause engine damage over the long-term, so it is important to have your P0190 repaired immediately.

How can you fix P0190?

• Change the fuel rail pressure sensor
• Connector Plugs to Clean Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Connectors
• Repair Fuel Rail pressure Sensor Wirings
• Replace Engine control unit

Common P0190 Diagnosis mistakes

A common diagnosis mistake is to start looking for problems regarding your car’s fuel pressure like fuel pumps or fuel filter.

The trouble code indicates that the circuit is not working properly and that the fuel pressure is low.

A second error is to not check the wiring before replacing the fuel pressure sensor.

Recommendations for Diagnosis

How to Diagnose the P0190 Trouble Code

It is easy to diagnose the P0190 code. This diagnosis may require some additional tools.

1. Use an OBD2 scanner to check for trouble codes.
2. Find the fuel pressure sensor, and inspect the connector plug for corrosion.
3. Locate the ohm value of your fuel pressure sensor and measure it. If open circuit or wrong values at the given fuel pressure – replace the sensor.
4. Check the wiring to the fuel pressure sensor visually for damage.
5. Take out the plug connector from the engine control module and measure resistance or open circuit. Repair wirings if faulty.
6. You can replace the fuel pressure sensor, even though your tests have shown it to be correct.
7. Change the engine control module.

The estimated cost of repair

Below are common repairs that can be associated with the code P0190. These prices are inclusive of labor and parts costs, but not diagnosis.

• Replace fuel pressure sensor – 30$ to 60$
• Repair fuel pressure sensor wirings – 30$ – 70$
• Replace engine control unit – 1000$ to 2000$

Other P0190 Trouble Codes

P0193 Trouble Code – Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input