P0230 on Acura: How to Diagnose & Fix
Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction
2 Acura models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical
P0230 on Acura by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Denso-supplied in-tank fuel pump module fitted across virtually the entire ILX production run uses an impeller that was molded with insufficient density and inadequately dried. The impeller absorbs fuel, swells, and interferes with the pump body. The pump then fails to deliver pressure - typically presenting first as a long crank or a hard start, then progressing to an engine stall that can happen at road speed with no warning and no restart. The ILX coverage was expanded twice: an initial 2019-2020 campaign (21V215, itself an expansion of ) was later broadened to cover 2013-2023 ILX under 23V858, so this spans every powertrain the car was sold with - 2.0 automatic, 2.4 manual, hybrid, and 2.4 DCT alike.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalls while driving
- Extended cranking before start
- No-start condition
- Whining or absent fuel pump prime noise at key-on
- Check engine light
- Loss of power under load
How to Fix
Free recall remedy under NHTSA 23V858 (Honda campaign codes KGC/KGD); earlier cars may instead fall under 21V215. Dealers replace the entire fuel pump module at no charge. Owner notification for the expanded campaign was mailed September 2024. Do not pay for a fuel pump on an ILX without first running the VIN - a private-pay pump module replacement typically runs $700-$1,200.
Sources for this issue (3)
Certain 2018-2020 MDX (J35Y5 3.5L V6) and MDX Sport Hybrid (3.0L V6 hybrid) units were built with low-density, improperly molded in-tank fuel pump impellers. Surface cracking from production solvent absorption causes the impeller to swell and seize against the pump body, leading to no-start or stall while driving. Honda issued NHTSA recall 23V-858 covering ~2.5 million Honda/Acura vehicles.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stall while driving
- Long cranking / no-start
- Intermittent loss of power
- Check Engine Light
- Fuel pump warning
How to Fix
Free recall remedy under NHTSA 23V-858 - dealer replaces the fuel pump module with a redesigned part. Check VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or owners.acura.com and schedule replacement immediately if not yet completed.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0230 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0230 mean on a Acura?
P0230 stands for "Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction." P0230 means the engine computer detected a fault in the fuel pump primary circuit — the control side that switches the fuel pump (or its relay) on and off. The PCM energizes this circuit to run the electric fuel pump that delivers fuel to the engine; if it sees voltage that is too high, too low, or out of expected range, it sets this code. Because the pump may not run correctly, the engine can crank without starting, stall, lose power, or hesitate. This is a circuit/control fault rather than a direct measurement of fuel pressure. On Acura it is documented across 2 models: ILX, MDX.
What are the most common causes of P0230?
The most common causes of P0230 are: Faulty fuel pump relay, Damaged wiring or connectors in the fuel pump control circuit, Corroded or loose ground/power connection, Failed fuel pump or fuel pump driver module, Blown fuse or fusible link, Open or short in the primary control wiring, Faulty PCM driver output (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0230 on a Acura?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Acura model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for P0230 on a different make?
View P0230 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.