How to Fix the P0088 DTC Code on Dodge Cummins (Pro Tips)
The P0088 code might seem slightly different from the other codes, considering how the code is arranged. There is nothing to worry about. Like the other DTC codes, this code needs to be verified through the symptoms and fixed.
The code P0088 on your Dodge cummins indicates Fuel rail/system pressure is too high. It means that the PCM or ECM has detected a fuel rail pressure or fuel pressure sensor voltage exceeding maximum standards.
So, how do you ensure that the code P0088 is running? Of course, through the symptoms. Once you have identified the code, we need to work on finding the cause so we can finally move towards the solution. Now, without further ado, let’s cut to the chase.
What Does Code P0088 Mean On Dodge Cummins?
As mentioned earlier, the code P0088 is set by the PCM/ECM when a very high pressure on the fuel rail or an extreme level of input voltage from the FRP sensor is detected.
FRP stands for Fuel Rail Pressure. It usually has a reference signal of 5 volts and a ground signal level. With the increasing fuel pressure, the resistance of the sensor lowers. In this case, there must be a corresponding increase in the signal voltage sensor to the PCM. The maximum value of the signal voltage may be 4.5.
The FRP sensor constantly adjusts this signal voltage to assure an efficient fuel consumption level and a standard fuel rail pressure. However, if the pressure on the fuel rail exceeds the standards set in the ECM, it generates the P0088 code.
Let’s break down the code P0088 for a better understanding.
- P = OBD-II Diagnostic Powertrain
- 0 = Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low
- 0 = Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- 88 = Individual Fault Index. For this specific code, it means High Pressure of Fuel Rail System
How Serious Is P0088 Code On Dodge Cummins?
As the code numbers suggest, the P0088 code isn’t a very common OBD-II code to come up on your Dodge. But if it does, it should not be ignored or neglected.
With the code P0088, the Dodge engine has high pressure in the fuel system, which leads to excessive fuel consumption and, ultimately, the inefficiency of the engine. And if the code is running for a long time and you do not do anything to fix it, it won’t be long till the engine dies as you are running it.
You can imagine the horrors of a vehicle stopping suddenly in the middle of the road or the high repair costs of a dying engine. Hence, you need to diagnose the code and run for a solution quickly.
What Causes P0088 Code On Dodge Cummins?
We will be listing the causes below that generate a P0088 code. The most common cause of the code is undoubtedly a faulty fuel pump or defective electrical components; other issues that work behind it are as follows-
- Fuel Filter Blockage
- Malfunctions of the Fuel Pressure Sensor
- Poor Connection of the Electrical Circuit in Fuel Pressure Sensor
- Shorted or Open Fuel Pressure sensor harness
- Defective Fuel Injector
- The Poor Condition of the Fuel Regulator
- Faulty Powertrain Control Module
Other Symptoms Of Getting P0088 Code On Dodge Cummins?
Just like with the other DTC codes, the primary symptom of getting the P0088 code is the illumination of the check engine light. The other symptoms of the code include the following:
- Deterioration of fuel efficiency
- Greater fuel consumption
- A delayed start in case of a cold engine
- Failsafe mode is set in the vehicle to resist further engine damage
- Engine halting or misfiring
- Low performance of the engine
- Potentially dying engine with decreased fuel mileage
- In extreme conditions, spark plug fouling may be possible
How To Fix P0088 Code On Dodge Cummins?
Starting from a faulty electrical component in the sensor, there can be other causes, as mentioned above. No matter the reason behind the code, the first thing to do before running into a solution is to diagnose the problem.
Hence, we’ll start with the diagnosis.
Step 1: Diagnosis
- Start by using a scan tool and installing it into the vehicle’s DLC port.
- Collect the freeze frame data through it
- The next step is to perform a road test. For precision in results, the test should be performed in the same condition as the freeze frame data.
- During the test, if the check engine light illuminates, conduct a visual inspection of the fuel system.
- Diagnose the fuel line, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, and the whole fuel system.
- If the visual inspection leads to no issues, check the rail fuel pressure using a mechanical fuel pressure tester.
- To detect any absurd situation, the found information from the tester needs to be compared to the fuel pressure sensor reading.
Step 2: Repairing Faulty Electrical Components
As we said previously, the electrical components like the connectors or circuit cables are usually faulty. If these turn out to be problematic, you must repair or replace them.
Step 3: Cleaning Fuel Supply Line
When checking the fuel supply line, you need to clean up the mess if you spot any discrepancies or debris. Sometimes, you might even need to replace it.
Step 4: Replacing Fuel Pressure Regulator
A faulty fuel pressure regulator is what we fear the most. If such happens, you need to replace it with help from a professional mechanic.
Step 5: Replacing Fuel Pressure Sensor
Besides the shorted electrical connectors, the fuel pressure sensor may be damaged. As a result, you’ll need to repair or replace the sensor.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix The Dodge Cummins P0088 Code?
You need appropriate diagnostic tools and a diagnosis process to determine the causes of the P0088 code. Hence, it is crucial to seek assistance from a professional mechanic who will charge about $75 to $115 for the diagnosis. However, the rate depends on the location, the engine, and vehicle type.
If the fuel pressure regulator is the issue, you’ll need to replace it, with the price of a fuel pressure regulator for Dodge being somewhere from $23 to $70.
With a damaged fuel pressure sensor, you need to replace it with a new one that costs $50 to $70.
Can You Drive Your Dodge Cummins With Code P0088?
Having the code P0088 flashing on your Dodge is unlike other common DTC codes because this one directly deals with the fuel system.
With high pressure in the fuel rail, there’s a certainty of excessive pressure in the fuel system. And on the engine itself to tackle the issue.
Since the fuel consumption is maximized, your Dodge may stop running in the middle of the road. Besides, the engine can die permanently for long-term running with the code on.
Hence, we do not recommend driving your Dodge with a P0088 code running. Not only will it harm the engine, but it can also cause your engine’s potential death.
Conclusion
If you leave the P0088 code on dodge cummins unchecked, it can result in a severe issue. The code is moderately severe, so diagnosing and fixing it may take time and patience.
We recommend taking your Dodge cummins engine to a professional mechanic or a reputable automobile store to fix the cause of the code.
You might think you can do it alone, but remember that the fuel system is quite delicate, and you do not want to mess with it just to save a hundred bucks. We hope this article clarified your concept of the code and how to fix it. Till next time, folks!
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