How to Fix P0232 Code on a 6.0L Powerstroke (Step-by-Step)

If you have a car from the Ford F-series including super duty trucks until 2007, you might have experienced the dreaded P0232 code. The code is logged in when the vehicle runs into issues. Let’s start with learning the meaning of it.

The code P0232 on the 6.0 powerstroke means or can be defined as “Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit High.” In simple language, it is stored when PCM detects high voltage or an incorrect voltage reading from the fuel pump secondary circuit, even if the fuel pump is not activated.

Keep reading to find out more about this code. We will have a detailed discussion including causes, symptoms and fixing strategies of P0232 on 6.0 powerstroke.

How to Fix P0232 Code on a 6.0L Powerstroke

What Does the P0232 Code Mean on the 6.0 Powerstroke?

To clarify once more. The code P0232 on 6.0 powerstroke means or can be defined as “Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit High.” 

In a broader sense, a car’s PCM turns on a fuel pump relay to supply the pump with the necessary power so that it can pressurize fuel to flow from the fuel tank to the injector.

The PCM receives a signal from the sensor connected to the fuel pump informing it if the fuel pump is receiving the proper voltage. The code is stored when PCM detects high voltage or an inappropriate voltage even if the fuel pump is not activated.

Hopefully, the picture is now clearer to you. To help you understand the code P0232 on Powerstroke 6.0 a little better, here is a breakdown.

  • P = Powertrain ( Transmission and others that moves the car forward)
  • 0 = It is a generic code that derives from the SAE
  • 2 = It indicates the parts associated with the fault. In our case it should be a Fuel pump.
  • 32 = It indicates a specific fault index. In our case, “Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit High.”

How Serious Is Code P0232 On 6.0 Powerstroke?

In some circumstances, if you delay in fixing the problem after the code has been set, it could result in a battery failure. It’s because the fuel pump relay remains open and the secondary circuit keeps running  until the battery dies.

The other major consequence of the code P0232 on powerstroke 6.0 can be the failure of the fuel pump or additional damage to the engine internal components.

Depending on the severity of the condition, you may also experience poor engine performance and engine difficulty to start.

What Causes Code P0232 On 6.0 Powerstroke? 

Bad fuel pump relay is considered the major culprit behind the code P0232 on powerstroke 6.0. Later in this blog we will explain about it in more detail. Anyway, there are some other causes as well those include the following:

  • Blown fuel pump fuse
  • Wiring and connector issues
  • Faulty PCM

Other Symptoms Of Getting P0232 Code On 6.0 Powerstroke

The check engine light, also known as a malfunction indicator lamp, is a feature that helps modern cars owners identify the malfunction.

Once the code P0232 on Powerstroke 6.0 has been stored, the check engine light turns on on the dash. You might also experience one or more of the following symptoms.

  • Poor engine performance
  • Engine is difficult to start
  • Vehicle stops suddenly
  • Fuel pump is active while the ignition is off
  • Battery drainage
  • Voltage present in the secondary circuit

How To Fix P0232 Code On 6.0 Powerstroke?

There are two basic steps involved in fixing the P0232 error code. First, the mechanic will carry out the diagnosis, trying to find out the specific reason due to which the code has been stored. Second, he will solve the issue by solving the cause.

All cars are unique; the Ford F series isn’t the same as the Ford Econoline. However, they both have powerstroke engines. So, the repair procedures may differ for the two models.

If you want to troubleshoot this code by yourself, make sure you know the wiring diagram and other details of the specific model you are working with. On the other hand, if you are not confident, let an expert mechanic handle it.

You, the mechanic, or whoever else is in charge may need to perform one of the following.

Replacing Fuel Pump Relay

We have stated earlier that bad fuel pump relay might be the issue. If so, fortunately it is not so costly to repair while it only takes a few minutes to fix it. You have to replace the old one with the new one.

  • Step 1: Park the vehicle and let it cool for a while. Open the hood and disconnect the battery.
  • Step 2: Go to the engine compartment and locate the relay control panel. It is located between the engine’s battery and the driver’s side strut tower.
  • Note; There are other relays in the relay control panel. The manual might have a detailed diagram or you might have a diagram on the cover.
  • Step 3: Locate the relay using the diagram from the vibe mentioned place and remove it
  • Step 4: Replace it with the new one

Wiring and connector issues

The code P0232 can be logged in if the connector to the relay is shorted. Also wires connecting to the fuel pump may be corroded. Fixing connector or wiring issues is a bit challenging and requires an expert hand.

Replacing Faulty PCM

If everything else is fine and functioning properly, then maybe the PCM is not working properly. May the internal component has failed or an internal short lead the PCM not working as expected. Replacing PCM, which is a less likely event , is a costly repair. Here is a step by step guide to replace the PCM of Powerstroke 6.0.

  • Step 1: Turn off the engine and disconnect battery cables.
  • Step 2: After removing the battery, you can access the Powerstroke 6.0’s PCM, which is typically mounted on the driver side.
  • Step 3: Disengage all of the connectors to the PCM, which are typically clips holding the PCM in place.
  • Step 4: Once you have removed all the connectors including the small clip on the bottom, and 10 mm sockets, you can safely remove the PCM.
  • Step 5: Check out all the wiring to the connectors. There are three of them. If there is any damage replace them first before replacing the PCM
  • Step 6: Reinstalling the PCM requires you to do everything in reverse.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix 6.0 Powerstroke P0232 Code?

The cost of the replacement parts goes beyond the limit if you have to replace PCM, fortunately which is very unlikely. You will need to spend about $120 if you only need to replace the fuel pump relay.

If the mechanic performs repairs for you, he will charge $150 for the diagnosis. Of course, if you have the required equipment and prior experience, the cost of fixing P0232 on a Powerstroke 6.0 will be lower.

There might also be some other supplementary expenses. Total costs change depending on the severity of the issue. It is a good idea if you can make a list of all the potential costs  before you begin the repair.

Can You Drive Your 6.0 Powerstroke With Code P0232?

Even after the code has been saved and the check engine light has come on, you can keep driving. However, driving with code P0232 on a Powerstroke 6.0 should be avoided because, as you are aware, it can cause a vehicle to stop abruptly or sometimes make it difficult to start the engine.

Additionally, it might put more strain on the wiring to the fuel pump and other components, which could cause further harm to the engine. Additional damage could raise the cost of repair further.

FAQs.

By this point, we have tried to cover nearly every aspect of the code P0232 on Powerstroke 6.0. You might still have some inquiries. You might be interested in knowing the answers to the following frequently asked questions.

What Other Codes Are Related To P0232?

The other related codes include P0233 or P0231. In case of P0231, it stands for fuel pump secondary circuit is low, which is quite opposite of P0232. Depending on the severity these code may also be stored

How Do I Permanently Delete P0232 From Powerstroke 6.0?

To permanently delete the code requires you to remove the root cause of the code. On the other hand, you can temporarily clear the code using some advanced OBD scanners. In such a case, it will reappear.

Where Does Fuel Pump Relay Is Located On Powerstroke 6.0?

The fuel pump relay of the powerstroke 6.0 is in the instrumental panel box located on the right side of the engine compartment. More specifically, it is between the strut tower and the battery.

What Should Be The Approach To Solve The Code P0232 On The Powerstroke 6.0?

When the check engine light is on and the code is stored, the first step is to verify the code. Use a scan tool to retrieve all the necessary information. Then find out the root cause behind the code and solve it. Test drive the vehicle and rescane and see if it reappears.

Conclusion

Depending on the reasons, the code P0232 on powerstroke is considered moderately severe to severe. If the code logged in due to a bad fuel pump relay, resolving the issue will be less stressful and the repairing cost will be minimum.

On the other hand, if you have to replace the battery or PCM, more money will be spent and you might need professional help. Fortunately, most of the time, if not always, the bad fuel pump relay is the culprit.

Finally, when the check engine light is on do not panic, get the meaning and the severity of the code and find out the best alternative option to resolve the issue. We hope the blog post was helpful and your vehicle back on the road.

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