P0231 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit - Low
4 Chevrolet models · 4 documented issues · 2 critical · $400-$1,000 repair
P0231 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The fuel pump module can fail, causing hard starting, stalling, or no-start conditions. GM issued a recall for certain vehicles due to fuel pump issues. GM bulletin 24-NA-139 attributes crank/no-start, stalling and loss of power with DTC P023F/P129F to an internal short in the fuel pump driver control module.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalls while driving
- Long crank time
- No start condition
- Loss of power
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Check if vehicle is covered by GM recall. Replace fuel pump module; with DTC P023F/P129F, GM bulletin 24-NA-139 calls for replacing the fuel pump driver control module (covered 8 years/80,000 miles). Some owners install upgraded pump assembly. Monitor for fuel pressure issues with scan tool.
Sources for this issue (2)
The fuel pump module fails to consistently provide adequate fuel flow to the engine, causing potential stalling while driving. This creates a significant safety hazard as the engine can stall unexpectedly in traffic. GM issued recall N222372310 (NHTSA 23V-013), covering 23,323 2021-2022 Equinox and 2022 Terrain vehicles.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalling while driving
- Hesitation during acceleration
- Hard starting or extended cranking
- Reduced engine power
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Fuel pump module replacement under recall N222372310. Contact dealer for recall service. Check VIN at my.gm.com/recalls for eligibility.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
The in-tank fuel pump can fail, causing stalling, hard starting and loss of power. The dual-tank equipped models have an additional failure point with the tank selector valve which can cause fuel starvation.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalling
- Hard starting
- Loss of power
- Fuel gauge inaccuracy
How to Fix
Confirm the fault by checking fuel pressure at the TBI or CPI rail and verifying pump power/ground at the tank connector; low or unstable pressure, especially under load, usually indicates a failing in-tank pump or restricted strainer. Replace the in-tank fuel pump module, sock/strainer, and fuel filter, and inspect the tank wiring connector for heat damage; on dual-tank trucks, also test the tank selector valve for proper switching and fuel flow because a failed valve can mimic pump failure and cause starvation. If one tank reads incorrectly or the gauge is erratic, inspect the sending unit while the tank is down and replace it if worn. Typical repair cost is about $350-$900 for a single pump job, or $500-$1,200+ on dual-tank models if the selector valve or both sending units need service.
Sources for this issue (1)
The in-tank electric fuel pump fails frequently on C/K trucks, especially in hot weather. Low fuel levels accelerate pump failure as the fuel cools and lubricates the pump. The pump module sender unit also fails, causing inaccurate fuel gauge readings.
Common Symptoms
- Engine stalling
- Hard starting
- Loss of power at highway speeds
- Whining from fuel tank
- Inaccurate fuel gauge
How to Fix
Confirm low fuel pressure before replacing parts by testing pressure at the TBI or CPI rail and checking pump current draw, fuel pump relay operation, wiring at the tank connector, and frame ground integrity. If pressure is below spec or the pump is noisy/intermittent, replace the complete in-tank fuel pump module/sender assembly rather than the pump alone, install a new fuel strainer and external fuel filter, and inspect the tank for contamination or overheating damage to the harness connector. Because sender failure is common, replacing the full module usually restores both fuel delivery and gauge accuracy; typical parts cost is about $100-$300 for an aftermarket module or $250-$450 for higher-quality/OE-style parts, with total installed cost commonly $400-$900 depending on bed removal vs. tank drop labor.
Sources for this issue (2)
P0231 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 P0231 mean on a Chevrolet?
P0231 stands for "Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit - Low." This code indicates the engine computer detected a low-voltage condition in the fuel pump's secondary (driver/output) control circuit. Many vehicles control the fuel pump through a relay or a dedicated driver module, and the computer monitors the voltage on that circuit to confirm the pump is being powered correctly. When the feedback voltage stays lower than expected, P0231 sets. Because the fuel pump supplies pressurized fuel to the injectors, this fault can cause hard starting, stalling, or no-start conditions. On Chevrolet it is documented across 4 models: Silverado 1500, Equinox, C/K 2500, C/K 1500.
What are the most common causes of P0231?
The most common causes of P0231 are: Faulty fuel pump relay, Corroded or loose connector at the pump or relay, Damaged or shorted wiring in the pump power circuit, Poor ground for the fuel pump circuit, Failing fuel pump drawing abnormal current, Faulty fuel pump driver module, PCM/ECM internal driver fault (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0231 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $400 to $1,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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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.