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VAG Fuel & air metering

P0231: Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low

Diagnostic trouble code P0231 — what it means, the common causes, and how to confirm the real fault before replacing parts.

What does P0231 mean?

P0231 indicates: Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low. This relates to the Fuel & air metering system.

Common causes of P0231

What to check (live data)

Parts often involved in P0231

Don't replace parts until the root cause is confirmed — many of these codes are caused by wiring, a connector or an upstream fault, not the part itself.

Get the confirmed root cause for P0231 — on YOUR vehicle

A code is a symptom, not a diagnosis. AutoDX Pro cross-checks several independent assessments, pinpoints the actual root cause, gives you the exact tests to confirm it, and shows the parts — only after the cause is confirmed. Reads your scan-tool photo and decodes your VIN with open recalls.

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P0231 — frequently asked questions

What does P0231 mean?
P0231 is a diagnostic trouble code: Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Low.
What are the common causes of P0231?
Common causes include: fuel pump control module J538 not switching fuel pump relay J17, fault in connection between engine control module J220 and fuel pump control module J538, output voltage from fuel pump control module out of plausibility range, fuel pump relay J17 failure preventing pump actuation. The exact cause depends on the vehicle — confirm it before replacing parts.
Can I keep driving with P0231?
It depends on the fault and your symptoms. Some causes are minor, others can damage components or affect safety. Get the root cause confirmed before deciding.
How do I fix P0231?
Confirm the actual root cause with targeted tests first, then replace only the part that's at fault. AutoDX Pro gives you the root cause, the exact tests, and the parts for P0231 on your specific vehicle.

P0231 by make

AudiVolkswagenSkodaSeat

Related codes

P0205P0217P0262P0265P0268P0269