How to Fix P0087 Code On a 6.7L Powerstroke (Quick Guide)

Various diagnostic trouble codes are set by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) for multiple reasons. Some of these codes are minor and some are considered serious.

The p0087 code on the 6.7 Powerstroke means “fuel rail/system pressure is low.” In this way, when there is low pressure in the fuel rail/system, the code p0087 will be logged. It can be a result of a faulty fuel filter or pump. So, anyone can fix this code by replacing the damaged parts of the fuel rail. 

There are also some reasons for this code and the ways to solve it. But what are they, and how much does it cost to fix these issues? To get all the necessary information you must know, let’s dive into the article below.

How to Fix P0087 Code On a 6.7L Powerstroke

What Does p0087 Code Mean On 6.7 powerstroke?

P0087 on the 6.7 Powerstroke is an OBD-2 diagnostic trouble code which means fuel rail or fuel system pressure is too low. The code is logged when the PCM detects low fuel pressure at the fuel pressure sensor of the Powerstroke 6.7.

The fuel pressure sensor on the fuel system keeps measuring the fuel pressure. When the pressure falls below the minimum levels required to run the engine, the pressure sensor gives instructions to the PCM to set the code. 

Here is a breakdown of the code p0087 on what each digit means:

  • P = powertrain, which includes the engine, transmission, and other system components.
  • 0 = a generic code also known as SAE.
  • 0 = Fuel and air metering controls
  • 87 = Defines the exact problem ( in this case, low fuel rail/system pressure)

How Serious Is Code p0087 On 6.7 powerstroke?

The diagnostic trouble code p0087 on the Powerstroke 6.7 can create many serious issues for the car and the driver as well. More specifically, when the code is set, the car starts misfiring or is hard to start. It can also cause serious drivability problems. 

Besides, if the fuel filter is clogged or the fuel pump is damaged, it can damage the engine further. In simple terms, this trouble code can make your car dead. So, the code p0087 is serious enough and should be diagnosed asap. 

What Causes Code P0087 On The 6.7 Powerstroke?

As we mentioned earlier, low fuel pressure is the major cause of detecting the p0087 code on the 6.7 Powerstroke. The other potential reasons that can cause the code are:

  • A faulty fuel pump
  • A defective fuel pressure sensor
  • Damaged fuel line
  • A clogged fuel filter
  • Damaged PCM 

Other Symptoms Of Getting p0087 Code On 6.7 powerstroke

Poor engine performance is the most common symptom of the code p0087 on the 6.7 Powerstroke. Other possible symptoms may include:

  • Check engine light turning on.
  • The engine starts stalling
  • The power in the engine is too low.
  • The engine may misfire.
  • Starting and running are difficult.
  • Powerstroke 6.7 may fail to start.

How To Fix The p0087 Code On The 6.7 Powerstroke?

As there are many reasons for the code p0087 on 6.7 Powerstroke, you should fix it by diagnosing each reason and solving it as required. 

However, we recommend you get help from a professional technician in your area if you are not completely comfortable doing the job yourself. But if you are, here’s what you’ll do:

1. Replace the Fuel Filter

Start by checking the fuel filter. If you find the fuel filter is not working, it’s better to replace it. Here are steps to replace a fuel filter:

Step 1: Relieve the Fuel Pressure

First you have to remove pressure from the fuel line. So remove your fuel pump fuse or relay. Start your engine and allow it to idle until it stalls. This may trigger your check engine light. 

Once it stalls, crank the engine for about five seconds to release fuel pressure. This should relieve most of the pressure, but there could still be a little fuel that will squirt or leak when you detach the filter. 

Step 2: Perform Some Preparatory Work 

Turn the ignition back to the off position. Now disconnect the battery ground cable marked with a minus sign. Set it to the site and make sure that it isn’t touching anything metal. Raising and supporting your vehicle. 

In this case, have a drain pan of some kind in place under the filter to catch any fuel that is left in the line or filter when you detach them. It’s also a good idea to have some rags handy. 

Step 3: Dispose of the Old Fuel Filter

Once you’ve located the filter, use a screwdriver to detach the clips from the line. Be careful not to kink your fuel lines as you detach the fuel filter. It can cause leaks. Then disconnect the fuel line fittings and remove the filter. 

Step 4: Install the New Fuel Filter

ln a new filter, the direction of fuel flow will always be toward the front of the vehicle. Now you install the new fuel filter.

Use the clips that come with the filter to attach it to the fuel line. And secure the clamp to hold it in place. 

Reinstall the fuel pump relay or fuse and reattach the group cable. Turn your ignition to the on position for a few seconds, and turn it off again. This will bring the fuel pressure back. So, finally you’re done. 

2. Replace the Damaged Fuel Lines

If the fuel filter is fine, it may be a problem with the fuel lines. So, visually inspect the line. If you find the fuel line is faulty, replace the damaged part of the line. To do so, here are the steps to follow: 

First, cut the damaged section of the fuel line. Now measure the inner diameter of the fuel line and choose a sleeve of the appropriate size. Insert a sleeve into the fuel line. Now measure the outer diameter of the line and choose a rubber hose of the right size. 

Then cut the required length of the rubber hose. Now insert the fuel line into the hose. To do so, place ABA mini clamps over the sleeve and tighten. Now insert the connector onto the other side of the hose and tighten it with an ABA mini clamp. Connect the repaired fuel line to the other end of the spigot. 

3. Change the Faulty Fuel Pump

If the p0087 code is still on your 6.7 Powerstroke after replacing the fuel line, it may be a problem with the fuel pump. Here’s the process to follow to change the pump:

Step 1: Locate the fuel pump

First, locate the fuel pump on your 6.7 Powerstroke. The fuel pump is usually located in the fuel tank.  

Step 2: Remove the fuel pump

Once located, detach the old fuel pump. To do so, relieve the fuel pressure. Then disconnect the negative wire. Now check if there’s any fuel in the fuel tank. If so, drain the fuel as much as possible. 

After that, detach the rubber hose and the electrical connections. Then remove all the straps holding the pump to the tank and lower the tank. While doing this, make sure to support the tank with a jack and a wood block. 

Now disconnect the fuel lines connected to the module and remove the pump. 

Step 3: Install the new fuel pump

Once you remove the old fuel pump, compare it with the replacement fuel pump to confirm that it is the right size. Now, all you need to do is just reverse the process. 

In this way, install the new fuel pump and reconnect the fuel lines to the pump. Now reconnect the hoses and electrical connectors. Rejoin the negative battery cable and fill the tank with fuel. Then check if the trouble code is fixed. 

4. Remove the Faulty Fuel Pressure Sensor and Replace It 

When the code p0087 appears on Powerstroke 6.7, diagnose if the sensor is working. If it doesn’t work, it must be replaced. Here are the steps to go through:

Step 1: Look for the Fuel Pressure Sensor

Generally, a fuel pressure sensor is located inside the fuel tank. To be more sure, check out the manufacturer’s manual of your 6.7 Powerstroke. 

Step 2: Remove the Faulty Fuel Pressure Sensor

Now remove the bad fuel pressure sensor. For doing this, start by disconnecting the battery from the car. Then remove the fuel tank and take out the fuel pump. Now locate the sensor and take it out of the fuel pump. 

Step 3: Impose the New Sensor

Once you detach the faulty fuel pressure sensor, install the new one. Then reassemble the fuel pump and the fuel tank. Finally, reattach the battery and recheck if the sensor works properly. 

5. Replace the Faulty PCM 

If you find all the possible parts of your Powerstroke 6.7 are fine, your car’s PCM may be damaged. To be sure, check fuel pressure and see if it matches with the reading the PCM is showing. 

If the PCM detects a fault, it means it needs to be replaced. Here is the procedure from first to last:

Step 1: Disconnect the battery and locate the PCM

First of all, disconnect the car’s battery and locate the PCM of your 6.7 Powerstroke. The PCM is usually mounted in the engine compartment. Now disconnect the electrical connections in the car.

Step 2: Remove the bad PCM 

After that, take out the old PCM. To do so, remove all the bolts that hold the part in the right place. You can do it using a screwdriver or socket wrench. 

Step 3: Install the new PCM

Install the new one after removing the old one and tightening the bolts. Then rejoin the electrical connections and the battery connection. Now check if the code is removed, and with this, you have just finished your job. 

How Much Does It Cost To Fix 6.7 Powerstroke p0087 Code?

The cost of fixing the code p0087 on the Powerstroke 6.7 usually depends on the parts you’re going to replace. Similarly, the labor cost will depend on your location and the type of problem your car has. 

In general, the labor cost to solve the code p0087 is between $75 and $155. The other costs will depend on the parts you’ll replace.

If you replace the fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, or a damaged fuel line, the average replacement cost is between $150 and $380. 

But the replacement of a faulty fuel pump and the PCM will be slightly more expensive. It may cost from $1000 to $2500. But this amount doesn’t include the tax or charge. 

Can You Drive Your 6.7 Powerstroke With Code p0087?

Sometimes, you may drive your 6.7 Powerstroke with the code p0087, but this is not safe. As we said earlier, this code can be responsible for various drivability issues. 

If you drive your car with this code, the engine may be damaged completely, and you will have to pay a significant amount of money to repair the problems.

Moreover, the driver may lose control of the car while driving with this code. As a result, many acute accidents may take place.

So, it’s better not to drive your 6.7 Powerstroke with the code p0087.  

FAQs

We just finished learning what the code p0087 means on 6.7 Powerstroke and what the reasons and solutions are for the code. Do you have some other questions? Well, we also have the answers below:

What Are The Other Error Codes Associated With The Fuel Rail System? 

Apart from p0087, there are some other diagnostic trouble codes that stand for the fuel rail system problem. The error code p0191 is set when there is an oddity in the fuel pressure readings, and p0088 will log when the fuel pressure is higher than the required level of fuel pressure. 

What Controls 6.7 Powerstroke Engine Fuel Rail Pressure? 

There are a few different ways to control the fuel rail pressure on powerstroke 6.7. The most possible way is to add more fuel than it’s required and insert a pressure control valve. What controls the fuel rail pressure?

What Causes Low Fuel Rail Pressure On 6.7 Powerstroke?

There are several reasons why low fuel rail pressure occurs on 6.7 powerstroke engine. Some of the most common reasons are fuel pump malfunction, fuel line issues, damaged fuel filter or regulator, dirty injectors, and others. 

Conclusion

You can’t avoid a single piece of information given in this article to solve the code p0087 on the 6.7 Powerstroke. But before trying all these things, make sure that you have an assistant. Because, when you’re not so experienced in DIY, it can be risky for you.

However, the p0087 code on the 6.7 Powerstroke is something which nobody wants to face. As it creates many unbearable driving issues, it’s ideal to try to prevent the code. 

So, try to follow a regular maintenance and care routine to keep the fuel rail system in good health. Always clean the fuel injectors using a fuel injector cleaner. You should also change the old air, fuel, or oil regularly.

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