P0087
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detects that the fuel pressure in the high-pressure fuel system is too low.
Code P0087 means your engine's high-pressure fuel system has too little fuel pressure. Common causes: High-pressure fuel pump (50%), low-pressure fuel pump (25%), fuel pressure sensor (10%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $200-$800 DIY, $400-$1550 professional.
Can I Drive With P0087?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways, avoid heavy acceleration. Plan for immediate repair.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, engine stalls repeatedly, significant power loss, loud knocking noises from the engine.
Symptoms of P0087
- 1Engine cranks but won't start
- 2Engine stalls after starting
- 3Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 4Engine misfires
- 5Rough idle
- 6Check Engine Light is on
Common Causes of P0087
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The high-pressure fuel pump is failing to deliver sufficient fuel pressure to the fuel rail, which is common on direct-injection engines.
50% of P0087 cases are fixed by replacing this part
The low-pressure fuel pump in the fuel tank is not supplying enough fuel to the high-pressure fuel pump, leading to overall low system pressure.
25% of P0087 cases are fixed by replacing this part
The fuel pressure sensor is providing an inaccurate reading to the engine computer, falsely indicating low fuel pressure.
10% of P0087 cases are fixed by replacing this part
The fuel pressure regulator is stuck open or not functioning correctly, preventing the system from maintaining the required fuel pressure.
5% of P0087 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A severely clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow, causing the fuel pumps to struggle and resulting in low fuel pressure.
5% of P0087 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A leak in the fuel system, either external from a line or internal from a leaky injector, allows fuel pressure to drop.
5% of P0087 cases are fixed by repairing a fuel leak
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Verify the fuel level in your tank. Running very low on fuel can sometimes trigger this code.
- Listen for the in-tank fuel pump to hum for a few seconds when you turn the key to the 'on' position (before starting the engine). A lack of sound indicates a potential pump issue.
- Visually inspect all accessible fuel lines and connections for any obvious signs of fuel leaks.
How to Diagnose P0087
- 1Check the fuel level in the tank.
- 2Use a scan tool to monitor actual vs. desired fuel pressure readings at idle and under load.
- 3Listen for the in-tank fuel pump to prime when the key is turned to the 'on' position.
- 4Inspect all visible fuel lines and connections for any signs of leaks.
- 5If low-pressure readings are confirmed, test the output of the low-pressure fuel pump.
- 6If low-pressure is good, test the output of the high-pressure fuel pump.
- 7Compare fuel pressure sensor readings with a mechanical fuel pressure gauge for accuracy.
P0087 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2024EcoBoost engines are prone to high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures, leading to P0087. Diagnosis requires careful monitoring of both low and high-side fuel pressure.
60% fixed by replacing the HPFP
Chevrolet Silverado
2014-2024GM's direct injection V8 engines can experience P0087 due to either the high-pressure fuel pump or issues with the in-tank low-pressure fuel pump. Proper diagnosis of both systems is crucial.
70% fixed by replacing a fuel pump
Honda Accord
2013-2024Direct injection Honda engines can also trigger P0087. While less common than on some other makes, the high-pressure fuel pump or a faulty fuel pressure sensor are the primary culprits.
55% fixed by replacing the HPFP
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0087 mean?
P0087 indicates that the engine's computer has detected that the fuel pressure in the high-pressure fuel system is below the specified minimum level required for proper engine operation.
Can I drive with P0087?
No, limit driving. This code indicates a serious fuel delivery problem that can cause your engine to stall, misfire, or lose power. Driving with P0087 risks stranding your vehicle and can lead to further engine damage.
Will P0087 clear itself?
No, P0087 will not clear itself. This code points to a mechanical or electrical fault in the fuel system that requires diagnosis and repair. The underlying issue must be fixed for the code to clear.
How do I fix P0087 myself?
Start by checking your fuel level and listening for the in-tank fuel pump. Use a scan tool to monitor fuel pressure. If pressure is low, you might need to replace the high-pressure fuel pump, low-pressure fuel pump, or the fuel pressure sensor, depending on your diagnosis.
How much does it cost to fix P0087?
DIY repair costs for P0087 typically range from $200 to $800 for parts like a fuel pump or sensor. Professional shop repairs can cost $400 to $1550, including parts and labor, depending on the specific component that needs replacement.
P0087 keeps coming back - why?
P0087 keeps coming back because the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if a faulty fuel pressure sensor was replaced, but the actual problem was a failing fuel pump, or if only one fuel pump was replaced when both were contributing to the issue.
Will P0087 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0087 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light is on, and the fuel system is not operating correctly, which directly impacts emissions and is an automatic failure.
What's the difference between P0087 and P0088?
P0087 indicates the fuel rail pressure is too low, meaning the engine isn't getting enough fuel. P0088 indicates the fuel rail pressure is too high, meaning too much fuel pressure is being delivered. Both are fuel pressure regulation issues, but in opposite directions.
P0087 on Ford F-150?
P0087 on Ford F-150 EcoBoost engines is often caused by a failing high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP). These engines rely heavily on the HPFP for direct injection, and it's a known wear item. Replacing the HPFP often resolves the issue.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check both the low-pressure and high-pressure fuel readings with a scan tool?
Good answer: Yes, I monitored both actual and desired pressures at idle and under load. The low-side pressure was X PSI, and the high-side was Y PSI, which is below specification.
What were the actual versus desired fuel pressure values at idle and under load?
Good answer: At idle, the desired pressure was Z PSI, but the actual was only Y PSI. Under acceleration, the desired was A PSI, but we only saw B PSI, confirming a significant pressure drop.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$200-$800
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$400-$1550
Save $200-$750 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
2-5 hours
Intermediate to Professional recommended. Diagnosing fuel pressure issues accurately requires a scan tool with live data and potentially a mechanical fuel pressure gauge. Replacing high-pressure fuel pumps can be complex and may require specific tools and knowledge of fuel system safety.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0087 leads to engine stalling, misfires, and reduced power. Continued misfires send unburned fuel to your catalytic converter, which can cause it to overheat and fail prematurely. A $200-$800 fuel pump job now prevents a $1,000-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
If your vehicle has an external, serviceable fuel filter, it's a low-cost item that can restrict fuel flow and is often overlooked. Replacing it prevents future fuel delivery issues.
If the regulator is a separate component from the fuel pump, replacing it while accessing the fuel system can prevent a repeat repair if it's contributing to pressure issues.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scan tool with live data capability
- Fuel pressure gauge (optional, if scan tool doesn't provide accurate data)
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Torque wrench
- Fuel line disconnect tools (if applicable)
- Safety glasses and gloves
P0087 is a serious code, but it's a common issue on modern direct-injection engines. With proper diagnosis, you can confidently replace the faulty component and restore your engine's reliable performance.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your fuel level and listen for the in-tank fuel pump to prime. If the tank is low or the pump isn't humming, address those first.
Step 2: Use an OBD-II scan tool with live data to monitor actual versus desired fuel pressure. If the actual pressure is consistently low, proceed to test the low-pressure fuel pump output.
Step 3: If the low-pressure side is good, focus your diagnosis on the high-pressure fuel pump or the fuel pressure sensor. Parts you'll likely need include a new high-pressure fuel pump or a fuel pressure sensor.