P0231 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit - Low
1 Nissan model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
P0231 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Nissan issued two recalls for fuel pump issues on certain 2019 Altimas. Recall 19V316000 covers front-wheel-drive 2.5L cars whose fuel pump lock ring may not be fully engaged, which can let fuel leak and raise the risk of fire. Recall 18V922000 covers cars whose retainer clip between the low-pressure fuel tube and the high-pressure fuel pump may not be locked; the tube can shift and leak fuel, or disconnect and stall the engine.
Common Symptoms
- Fuel odor or visible fuel leak
- Engine stalls while driving
- Engine won't start
How to Fix
Check if your VIN is covered by recall 19V316000 or 18V922000. Nissan dealers will inspect the fuel pump lock ring and tighten it (or replace the fuel pump if the ring is detached), or lock the fuel tube retainer clip, free of charge.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Nissan Altima forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
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 Nissan?
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 Nissan it is documented across 1 model: Altima.
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 Nissan?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Nissan 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.