P0089 Code – What Does It Mean & How To Fix It

This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.

Causes

Common causes for this code include:

• The fuel Filter may be clogged, restricted or has failed
• A hose is disconnected, loose or leaking
• The fuel pressure regulator may have failed
• The fuel pump may be faulty
• The intake manifold is leaking or loose, allowing outside air to enter the system through the pressurized lines/connections

Symptoms

The symptoms of a P0089 code are:

• Check Engine Light is on
• Sluggish performance when accelerating
• The engine will run in a lean condition
• There may a be a loss of power

Diagnosis

To diagnose a P0089 DTC code, a technician would:

1. Visually check the engine for proper fuel supply
2. Visually check the engine to see if it is running lean, there may be a leak in the intake manifold or vacuum leaks
3. Check all of the pressurized lines and connections for any sign of external air entering into the system via damaged or disconnected hoses
4. Check the ECM data with an advanced scanner/scope tool to see if there are any significant changes when compared to normal readings
5. If there are no visual signs of problems, then check all aspects of the fuel system (hoses, connections, injectors, filters) for proper operation.
6. Replace faulty components as needed

Common mistakes

The following are some of the most common mistakes that a technician may make when diagnosing a P0089 code:

• Not checking for faults in the electrical wiring or hoses that may cause an improper fuel pressure
• Not checking the engine to determine if it is running lean, which would indicate an air leak in one of the pressurized lines/connections
• Not replacing all components at once (replacing only the fuel pump without also replacing the filter and hose)
• Replacing parts without checking or verifying that they are faulty
• Not checking for external air entering the engine through damaged, loose or disconnected hoses

How serious is this?

A P0089 code may cause a driveability concern as well as poor fuel economy. Also keep in mind that trying to drive the vehicle with this code present may cause further damage to the fuel system or engine.

What repairs can fix the code?

The following are solutions that may fix this problem:

• Replacing a clogged filter or replacing a hose with a leak 
• Replacing a faulty fuel pressure regulator 
• Replacing a damaged or loose intake manifold or cleaning the gasket surfaces of them for leaks 
• Inspecting and repairing any wiring issues as needed 
• Replacing a faulty fuel pump 
• Replacing other components as needed

Related codes

A P0089 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes: 

P0090 Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Circuit

P0091 Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Circuit Low

P0092 Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Control Circuit High

P0087 Fuel Rail/System Pressure – Too Low

P0088 Fuel Rail/System Pressure – Too High

Conclusion

In conclusion, the P0089 code is a generic trouble code that means the computer has detected an issue with the fuel pressure regulator and has set the code. The best way to fix this issue is to replace the faulty parts and perform a visual inspection of all system connections looking for external air leaks. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms noted above, have your fuel system inspected by a reputable mechanic.