P0232
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detected a higher than expected voltage in the fuel pump's secondary circuit.
Code P0232 means the fuel pump secondary circuit has high voltage. Common causes: Fuel pump relay (50%), wiring harness (30%), fuel pump driver module (15%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $20-$150 DIY, $100-$400 professional.
Can I Drive With P0232?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Engine cranks but does not start, engine stalls, Check Engine Light is on
Symptoms of P0232
- 1Engine cranks but does not start
- 2Engine stalls unexpectedly
- 3Engine runs rough or misfires (if intermittent)
- 4Check Engine Light is on
Common Causes of P0232
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
A faulty fuel pump relay can stick in the 'on' position or have an internal short, sending continuous or excessive voltage to the fuel pump circuit.
50% of P0232 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged or shorted wiring in the fuel pump circuit can cause the PCM to detect an abnormally high voltage.
30% of P0232 cases are fixed by repairing this part
An internal fault or short within the fuel pump driver module can send an incorrect high voltage signal to the fuel pump.
15% of P0232 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A rare internal fault in the PCM's fuel pump control circuit can cause it to incorrectly report or send high voltage.
5% of P0232 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check the fuel pump fuse in the fuse box. A blown fuse can sometimes indicate a short, or a good fuse can rule out a simple power loss.
- Locate the fuel pump relay in your vehicle's fuse box (refer to your owner's manual or fuse box diagram). Swap it with an identical, non-critical relay (like the horn relay) to see if the problem resolves.
How to Diagnose P0232
- 1Check all fuses related to the fuel pump and engine control in the fuse box.
- 2Locate and inspect the fuel pump relay; swap it with a known good, identical relay (e.g., horn relay) to see if the problem resolves.
- 3Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the fuel pump and fuel pump driver module for any signs of damage, chafing, or corrosion.
- 4Use a multimeter to test voltage at the fuel pump connector and the fuel pump driver module to confirm the high voltage reading.
- 5If equipped, test the fuel pump driver module's input and output signals according to service manual specifications.
P0232 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford F-150s are known for issues with the Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) corroding due to its exposed location on the frame. This can lead to various fuel pump circuit codes, including P0232.
60% fixed by FPDM or relay replacement
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024On Silverado trucks, P0232 often points to a failing fuel pump relay in the underhood fuse box or a short in the wiring harness leading to the fuel tank, especially where it passes over the frame.
70% fixed by relay or wiring repair
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accord vehicles with P0232 typically experience a faulty fuel pump relay (often called the Main Relay on older models) or a short in the wiring near the fuel tank or under the rear seat.
75% fixed by relay or wiring repair
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0232 mean?
P0232 indicates the engine's computer detected a higher than expected voltage in the electrical circuit that powers your fuel pump.
Can I drive with P0232?
No, stop driving. This code often results in a no-start condition or engine stalling, leaving you stranded. Driving is not safe or possible.
Will P0232 clear itself?
No, P0232 will not clear itself. This code points to a hard electrical fault that requires diagnosis and repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying issue is fixed.
How do I fix P0232 myself?
Start by checking the fuel pump fuse. Then, swap the fuel pump relay with a known good one. If that doesn't fix it, you will need a multimeter to test the wiring for shorts and verify voltage at the fuel pump and fuel pump driver module.
How much does it cost to fix P0232?
DIY repair costs range from $20 for a new relay to $150 for a fuel pump driver module. Professional repair costs typically range from $100 to $400, depending on the part needing replacement and labor rates.
P0232 keeps coming back - why?
If P0232 returns, it means the initial repair did not address the root cause. This often happens if a faulty wiring short was missed, or if the fuel pump driver module or PCM is the actual culprit instead of just the relay.
Will P0232 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0232 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions.
What's the difference between P0232 and P0231?
P0232 indicates a 'high' voltage condition in the fuel pump secondary circuit, meaning too much voltage. P0231 indicates a 'low' voltage condition, meaning not enough voltage is reaching the fuel pump.
P0232 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, P0232 is most commonly traced to a faulty fuel pump relay or issues with the Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) located on the frame rail. Wiring damage is also a common cause due to exposure.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the fuel pump relay for proper operation and resistance?
Good answer: Yes, I swapped it with a known good relay and also tested the old one with a multimeter. It was sticking/had high resistance.
What voltage readings did you get at the fuel pump connector and the fuel pump driver module?
Good answer: I measured X volts at the pump connector and Y volts at the FPDM output, which is higher than the specified Z volts, confirming the over-voltage condition.
Did you thoroughly inspect the wiring harness for any signs of chafing, corrosion, or shorts?
Good answer: Yes, I traced the circuit from the fuse box to the pump, checking for any damage, especially where the harness passes through grommets or near sharp edges.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$20-$150
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$100-$400
Save $80-$250 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires a multimeter and understanding of basic electrical diagnosis, including reading wiring diagrams.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0232 means your vehicle will likely not start or will stall unexpectedly, leaving you stranded. There is no direct component damage from waiting, but the inconvenience is significant.
While You're In There...
While not directly related to P0232, if you are accessing the fuel pump area for wiring inspection or FPDM replacement, replacing an old fuel filter is a good preventative maintenance step.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Multimeter
- Basic Hand Tools (screwdrivers, wrenches)
- Wiring Diagrams (vehicle specific)
P0232 is an electrical fault that often points to a common, inexpensive part like a relay. Most repairs are straightforward and will get your vehicle running reliably again.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check the fuel pump fuse and swap the fuel pump relay with a known good one. This is the quickest and cheapest diagnostic step.
Step 2: If the relay swap doesn't fix it, use a multimeter to test for voltage at the fuel pump connector and the fuel pump driver module. Compare your readings to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
Step 3: If you confirm high voltage, visually inspect the wiring harness for any damage. If wiring is good, the fuel pump driver module or, rarely, the PCM is the likely culprit.