P069E: Fuel Pump Control Module Requested MIL Illumination

What Does The P069E Code Mean?

This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from , Chevy, Buick, Cadillac, Ford, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.

A stored code P069E means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction with the fuel pump control module so that it has requested malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination.

The fuel pump control module is responsible for supply and regulation of voltage to the fuel pump relay and the fuel pump. Typically, the fuel pump controller is integrated into the PCM but it may also be a stand-alone module. The fuel pump provides pressurized fuel for the fuel injection system. It is most often located inside the fuel tank but may also be along the fuel rail. Diesel propulsion systems most often use high pressure pumps that are mounted on and driven by the engine.

Each time the ignition is turned on (and the PCM is energized), multiple controller self-tests are performed. The fuel pump control module is included in these controllers. By performing internal controller self-tests, the PCM can monitor serial data that is carried over the controller area network (CAN) to ensure that on-board controllers are interfacing properly.

If the fuel pump control module has requested that the MIL be illuminated, a code P069E will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.

What Are The Symptoms Of The P069E Code?

Symptoms of a P069E trouble code may include:

• Delayed engine starting
• No-start condition
• Engine drivability issues
• Other stored codes

What Are The Potential Causes Of The P069E Code?

Causes for this code may include:

• Faulty fuel pump controller or PCM
• Open fuel pump control module voltage supply circuit
• Bad or tripped fuel pump voltage shutoff (inertia) switch
• PCM failure or PCM programming error

How Serious Is This P069E Code?

Fuel pump control module codes should always be taken seriously. The conditions which cause a code P069E to be stored could result in numerous drivability issues and/or a no-start condition.

How Can You Fix The P069E Code?

If other fuel pump and/or fuel supply codes are stored, diagnose and repair those before attempting to diagnose the code P069E.

Consult your vehicle information source for technical service bulletins (TSB) that replicate the code stored, vehicle (year, make, model, and engine), and symptoms exhibited. If you find the appropriate TSB, it may yield helpful diagnostic information.

A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a source of reliable vehicle information will be required to diagnose a code P069E.

Begin by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. You will want to write this information down, just in case the code proves to be an intermittent one. After recording all pertinent information, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle (if possible) until the code is reset or the PCM enters readiness mode.

If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and will be more difficult to diagnose. The condition, which caused the P069E to be stored, may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be reached. If the code is reset, continue with your diagnosis.

Use your source of vehicle information to obtain connector face views, connector pin-out charts, component locators, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flow charts related to the code and vehicle in question.

Check to see if there is battery voltage on the fuel pump control circuit by using the appropriate wiring diagram and your DVOM. If not check system fuses and relays and replace defective parts as required. If the vehicle is equipped with a fuel pump voltage shutoff switch, test it to make sure that it has not been activated or is defective.

If there is no voltage (and/or ground) on the fuel pump control circuit (and all fuses and relays appear to be functioning properly) an inspection of controller related wiring and harnesses is in order. You will also want to check chassis and engine ground junctions. Use your vehicle information source to obtain ground locations for related circuits.

If there is voltage (and ground) present on the fuel pump control circuit, inspect system controllers for signs of water, heat, or collision damage. Any controller that is damaged (particularly by water) should be considered defective.

If controller power and ground circuits are intact, suspect a defective controller or a controller programming error. Controller replacement will require reprogramming.

• If the vehicle has been involved in a collision, check the fuel pump voltage interrupt switch first
• Test controller ground integrity by connecting the negative test lead of the DVOM to ground and the positive test lead to battery voltage

Recommended Parts

Below are some recommended auto parts to help you address the trouble code affecting your vehicle and get it running smoothly again:

Note: During the purchasing process, please check carefully whether the part you want to buy fits your car!

Check This Video For Reference

Reference Sources

P069E Fuel Pump Control Module Requested MIL Illumination, OBD-Codes.