P0230 on Acura: How to Diagnose & Fix
Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction
1 Acura model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
P0230 on Acura by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Denso-supplied in-tank fuel pump module fitted to the 2016-2020 ILX uses an impeller that was molded with insufficient density and exposed to production solvent drying for too long, which can crack its surface. 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 campaign covering the 2019 ILX (21V215, itself an expansion of 20V314) was later broadened to cover 2016-2020 ILX under 23V858, all with the 2.4L and 8-speed DCT.
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); some 2019 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)
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 1 model: ILX.
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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.