P069E Code – What Does It Mean & How To Fix It

The ECM sends a request for the powertrain control module to turn on the check engine light and reports data from various modules (fuel pump, fault code, etc..). If the problem is not resolved within 45 seconds of this initial request, then an extended P069E can be generated.

This code is used by a number of American manufacturers, but it isn't limited to Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, and the like. The definition's specifications, as well as troubleshooting and repairs, will differ from one make and model to another.

Causes

Common causes for this code include:

• A faulty fuel pump controller or PCM is to blame.
• Voltage shutoff (inertia) switch for a bad or tripped fuel pump
• The circuit supplied to the control module's fuel pump is open
• PCM might have a problem or a programming mistake

Symptoms

The symptoms of a P069E code are:

• A trouble code is stored and the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is illuminated
• Engine power is reduced or the engine stalls
• Rough running, poor acceleration, and a lack of fuel pressure are experienced

Diagnosis

To diagnose a P069E DTC code, a technician would:

1. Troubleshooting and Repair
2. If all of the fuel pump's fuses are in place, then there might be a problem with the fuel pump circuit. Test the voltage at the powertrain control module's fuel pump wire harness. If any voltage is present when measuring 12 volts with the ignition on but no voltage is detected when starting then there is an issue with that particular vehicle's wiring harness.
3. If there is sufficient power to supply current to the fuel pump controller, but not enough current to activate the fuel pump, test for resistance between terminals 2 and 3 in the PCM connector (depending on make/model). If resistance exceeds 10,000 ohms or less than 1,000 ohms this particular range, replace or repair the wiring harness.
4. If there is no power to the fuel pump controller, test for resistance between terminals 2 and 3 in the PCM connector (depending on make/model). If any resistance is detected this means that power is reaching the pump circuit. Test for some sort of short or an open in the wiring harness. Repair or replace if necessary.

Common mistakes

The following are common mistakes when diagnosing the trouble code P069E:

Assuming that the fuel pump controller is to blame without testing any other components

Not using the proper voltage to test for resistance between terminals 2 and 3 in the PCM connector (depending on make/model)

Failing to check all of the vehicle's wiring harnesses for continuity, shorts, or opens when there are no voltages at the fuel pump controller.

How serious is this?

A P069E code is not considered serious by any means, but it is still something to be dealt with. If this code isn't resolved the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) will remain illuminated and engine power will be reduced or the engine might stall.

What repairs can fix the code?

The following are solutions that may fix this problem:

• Removing or replacing a faulty fuel pump controller or damaged fuses and relays
• Replacing the fuel pump controller with an updated version if the existing one is defective 
• Repairing or adjusting wiring harnesses to make sure they are not shorted, grounded, broken
• Adjusting the vehicle's voltage shutoff (inertia) switch
• Troubleshooting and repairing any issues in powertrain control module programming

Related codes

A P069E is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes: 

P069F, P069G, P069H, P069J, and U0290.

How much does it cost to fix the P069E code?

The repair cost of a P069E code ranges from about $100 to $300. The type of repairs required will depend on the make and model.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the P069E code is a diagnostic trouble code that means the fuel pump controller is not working properly. The fuel pump controller might need to be repaired or replaced. In some vehicles, it could be as easy as adjusting a voltage shutoff (inertia) switch for a bad or tripped fuel pump. If all of the vehicle's wiring harnesses are in place and have no shorts or openings then there might be a programming mistake in the PCM.