How to Fix P2291 Code on 6.4L Powerstroke (Expert Approach)

You may often find the P2291 code on 6.4 Powerstroke. This code is basically related to the ICP sensors. ICP sensors are the key components of diesel vehicles. They monitor the oil pressure and allow PCM to manage the pressure in a required range. 

The p2291 code on 6.4 Powerstroke means injector control pressure is too low while engine cranking. If the PCM fails to get the information or inspect the low oil pressure, the p2291 code will be detected. There are also some other factors like oil leaks or low oil level that cause the code p2291 on the Powerstroke 6.4.

But do you know how to solve these issues? Well, in this article, we’ll discuss the easiest fixes of each problem regarding this code. So, let’s dive into the depths of the article. 

What Does p2291 Code Mean On 6.4 powerstroke?

P2291 on 6.4 Powerstroke is a generic diagnostic trouble code that’s only found on OBD-2 vehicles. In simple terms, the code p2291 stands for “Injector Control Pressure Too Low- Engine Cranking.” 

The ICP (Injector Control Pressure) sensor is one of the major components of diesel powered vehicles like the 6.4 Powerstroke. It monitors how much oil pressure is needed to operate the car and supplies information to the PCM to pressurize fuel injectors. 

In this way, when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects lower oil pressure than needed, the error code p2291 is triggered. 

The injection system usually uses high fuel pressure to manage the car’s performance. So, if the ICP fails to monitor the proper pressure of the fuel, the system will start using too little or too much pressure. 

And this will cause the code found on Powerstroke 6.4 to be set and lead to some engine issues. 

Here’s a breakdown of each digit of the code p2291 on Powerstroke 6.4: 

• P = Powertrain 
• 2 = A generic malfunctioning code
• 2 = It stands for fuel, air metering and injector circuit issues
• 91 = Defines a particular fault (In this case, injector control pressure too low with engine cranking)

How Serious Is Code p2291 On 6.4 powerstroke?

Getting the code p2291 on a Powerstroke 6.4 would be very serious as it can cause a range of performance issues for your car. This can lead to your car not starting or having a rough start. It can also be responsible for destroying your engine if the code isn’t fixed in time. 

Moreover, it may cause a sudden drop in fuel efficiency as well as engine power. As a result, the car may start stalling. So, there is no doubt that the p2291 code is very serious.

What Causes Code P2291 On 6.4 Powerstroke?

There are multiple reasons why the code p2291 is set on 6.4 Powerstroke. Some of the most common causes are:

• Low oil pressure
• Low oil level 
• A defective injector pressure control sensor
• A damaged injector pressure control regulator 
• Open or shorted wiring or connectors
• A faulty PCM 

Other Symptoms Of Getting p2291 Code On 6.4 powerstroke

The most common symptom of getting this code on Powerstroke 6.4 is the check engine light will illuminate. The other possible symptoms may include:

• No start condition
• Excessive smoke from the exhaust
• Bogus smell out of the engine
• Unexpected or unusual sounds from the engine

How To Fix p2291 Code On 6.4 powerstroke?

Fixing the code p2291 on 6.4 Powerstroke means fixing the issues that cause the code to appear on the computer. So, start by inspecting the parts gradually and solving the problems that are diagnosed. Here’s the guideline to go through to understand the process more clearly: 

1. Repair the oil leaks

As we mentioned, low oil pressure is the main reason for getting the code on 6.4 powerstroke. Usually, the oil leaks in your car are responsible for low oil pressure. So, when you notice the code, look for the oil leaks and repair them. To repair the engine oil leaks, here are the steps to follow:

• Step 1: Verify the oil leaks

First of all verify the oil leaks. To do so, get some ultraviolet leak detector and pour it a little bit in the engine oil. Then let the 6.4 powerstroke car idle for 15 minutes. Now you can use an ultraviolet light to find where the green dye is coming out. As you find out the leaks, attempt to fix them.

• Step 2: Repair the leak

Once you notice the leaks, it’s time to repair them. The easiest way to stop oil leaking is to have some stop oil leaks additive. It will seal the leaks quickly and prevent unusual oil leaking. You can get them from any automobile shop. 

But this fixing is temporary and it is preferable when you’re on a tour and there is no technician or the necessary parts aren’t available. So, if you need to replace any parts like the spark plugs or gasket, take your car to a repair shop and solve the issues. 

2. Add more oil 

If you have fixed the oil leaks of your powerstroke 6.4 car but the oil pressure is still low and logging the code p2291, let’s check out the oil level. Because, when the oil level is below the specifications of the manufacturer’s manual, the oil pressure will frequently drop. 

So, figure out if the oil level is accurate. If not, add more fuel to the tank and continue until it reaches the required level of oil. Thus, when you’re done, check if the oil pressure is right. If not, dive to the next procedure. 

3. Replace the injector pressure control sensor 

When you find there are no oil leaks or low oil level, the next suspect may be a bad injector pressure control sensor. If the ICP is faulty, it fails to interrogate the oil pressure and deliver the information to the PCM. 

So, when your Powerstroke 6.4 gets the trouble code p2291, diagnose the ICP and replace it if necessary. If you doesn’t know how to replace it, here are the steps you may follow:

• Step 1: Locate the injector control pressure

The location of ICP may vary by the models and manufacturers. But mostly, an injector control pressure sensor or ICP is located on the passenger side valve cover. 

• Step 2: Remove the bad ICP

Once the ICP is located, disconnect the electrical connectors from the sensor. To do so, just pry the plastic tab carefully out and pull the connector. Now attempt to remove the sensor using a 24 mil wrench. Take the sensor out. 

• Step 3: Install the new ICP

Finally, it’s time to install the new injector control pressure sensor. Before starting installation, put the engine oil on the o-ring of the new sensor. Then start installing the sensor by hand and tie it with a wrench. After that, go to reconnect the electrical connectors. That’s it. 

4. Replace the injector pressure regulator 

Injection pressure regulator or IPR regulates the amount of oil coming through the h-pop of the high pressure oil pump. It allows the powerstroke 6.4’s PCM to increase or decrease the pressure.

If the IPR fails to work, the trouble code p2291 can be set. So, when you notice the code, check the IPR and replace it if needed. You can follow the following procedure to do so:

• First of all, take the electrical components off from the IPR body. 
• Now take the IPR out using a 24 mil wrench.
• After all, insert the new IPR and tie it properly.

5. Repair the damaged wiring

Once you replace the faulty IPR but you see the code p2291 returns on your 6.4 Powerstroke, it may be the issue with wiring. Wiring and connectors are prone to melting, burning or tearing. 

But replacing the wiring harness of a car is usually very expensive and time-consuming. 

So, it’s a good idea to repair the damaged wiring. The easiest way to repair a damaged wiring is soldering. So, here are the steps to follow while you like to do the job yourself.

• Step 1: Look for the damaged wire

First locate the damaged area. Cut and remove the damaged wire. If you need to replace a length of wire be sure to match the gauge size of the original. 

• Step 2: Prepare the wire for soldering. 

Strip approximately ¾ to an inch of the insulation from the ends of the wires. To do this, you can use a hot knife attachment. This easily melts and cuts the insulation without damaging the wire strands. 

Now locate the correct size heat shrink tubing and slip it over the wire. Add heat shrink tubing on both ends of the repair before you splice and solder. 

• Step 3: Start soldering

Bend the wire ends about 90 degrees and then overlap the two wires. Now twist the ends in opposite directions to wrap around the wire. 

Heat the joint and a few seconds after apply solder to the joint when the wires are hot enough. The solder should melt nicely between the wire strands. 

Once you have enough solder in the joint, remove the heat and let the solder cool and harden before moving the wire. Now insert a shrink tube to the joint and start heating until you see the inner sealant. Thus, you’re done. 

6. Change the faulty PCM 

When all the possible components of your 6.4 Powerstroke are fine but the code p2291 is still triggered, then a faulty PCM can be the main culprit. So, check the PCM and replace it if it is bad. Here’s the process to replace a bad PCM.

• Locate the Powertrain Control Module
• Open the car’s hood and detach the negative battery cable
• Remove the electric connectors from the PCM body
• Use a socket and ratchet and pry the bolts of that holding the PCM in place 
• Take the old PCM out and insert the new one
• Now just reassemble the components. Tighten the bolts and install the connectors 
• Reattach the negative battery cable and do a road test if the new PCM is working

How Much Does It Cost To Fix 6.4 Powerstroke p2291 Code?

The cost of diagnosing and fixing the Powerstroke 6.4 p2291 dtc code will vary place to place and time to time. It also depends on the problem your powerstroke 6.4 car has. 

In general, the labor cost of fixing any of p2291 trouble code problems will run between $75 and $120. Sometimes it can be up to $150, if the problem is too serious and time-consuming to solve.

But when it comes to the price of the 6.4 Powerstroke parts, it will depend on the parts you’re going to change. If you replace a faulty ICP sensor, it will cost from $24 to $204 depending on model and type. 

Can You Drive Your 6.4 Powerstroke With Code p2291?

You may often drive your Powerstroke 6.4 with the trouble code p2291 but it will be rough. In most cases, the engine will fail to get started. Furthermore, the engine may start stalling and making unusual noises. 

After all, it can lead your 6.4 powerstroke vehicle to an irreparable loss. So, driving the vehicle with the code p2291 is not recommended. First solve the issues coming with the code. Then attempt to drive the vehicle and ensure safe driving.   

FAQs

Do you wanna know more about p2291 code on Powerstroke 6.4? Well, here are the things we get to know. 

Conclusion

Injector Control Pressure sensor is an essential part of a 6.4 Powerstroke. But it can also be the reason for various engine issues like stop starting or bad fuel mileage. Moreover, the p2291 code on 6.4 Powerstroke can be very tricky and expensive to fix.  

So, regular servicing and maintenance are essential to prevent the code from appearing. Make sure that there are no oil leaks in your car. If somehow there is any leakage, fix it as early as possible.

You should also look after the ICP sensor and regulator. Always keep them clean and monitor their health. Whenever you see they aren’t working properly, replace them without any delay. This will protect your car from further damage.

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