P0257 OBD-II Trouble Code: Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control "B" Range/Performance (Cam/Rotor/Injector)

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront


Cost of diagnosing the P0257 code

P0257 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control "B" Range/Performance (Cam/Rotor/Injector)". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE P0257 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

P0257 code definition

The P0257 code indicates injection pump fuel metering control “B” range/performance (cam/rotor/injector).

What the P0257 code means

The P0257 code means that the powertrain control module has found a discrepancy in the signal voltage that goes from the electronic fuel control actuator and the return signal from the fuel metering control sensor. This code only applies to vehicles that are running on diesel. If it does show up in another vehicle, it means that there is a problem with the powertrain control module.

What causes the P0257 code?

Here are some of the most common causes for the P0257 code.

  • Dirty fuel filter
  • Clogged fuel filter
  • Open or shorted circuits
  • Open or shorted electrical connectors
  • Defective fuel pump
  • Faulty fuel control actuator driver in the powertrain control module

What are the symptoms of the P0257 code?

In many cases, the symptoms associated with the P0257 code are very minor. They result in a stored code, and the Check Engine Light will likely come on in the vehicle. Other times, the vehicle might not start at all, or it will be difficult to start if you are fortunate enough to get it going. You might also notice that there is more smoke coming from the exhaust system than is normal. The engine might also suffer from misfires, and it might have some hesitation or chugging when trying to accelerate.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0257 code?

Mechanics will make use of a tool called an OBD-II scanner. This scanner connects to the computer that is on the vehicle. The car’s onboard computer can store these codes and other data about the vehicle. The scanner provides that valuable information to the mechanic. It will make it much easier to determine the actual problem with the vehicle. The mechanic will also want to reset the code to see if it comes back when they test drive the vehicle.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0257 code

As with similar codes, the common mistakes made during the diagnosis is believing that the injectors or the injector pump is the problem. Most of the time, the cause will be the fuel filter.

How serious is the P0257 code?

You never want to be driving around with your Check Engine Light on and codes stored in your vehicle. Even if you do not notice any issues with your vehicle’s performance with a P0257 code, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. Many people do suffer from performance issues. The vehicle starts hard or it doesn’t start at all. The vehicle might run rougher than usual as well. Anything that alters the performance of your vehicle can be dangerous, and it is better to take care of it sooner rather than later.

What repairs can fix the P0257 code?

The following are some of the repairs mechanics might make to your vehicle to fix the P0257 code.

  • Check the vehicle with the OBD-II device.
  • Reset the code and test the vehicle. Check to see if the P0257 code comes back.
  • Check the electrical connections for corrosion and other issues. Repair or replace any parts as needed.
  • Replace the fuel filter
  • Replace the fuel pump
  • Replace the fuel control actuator driver in the powertrain control module.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0257 code

When vehicles get older, it is true that the warning lights and codes could be activated by mistake. This is especially true when a vehicle has more than 100,000 miles on it. However, that doesn’t mean you should ever ignore these types of issues. You will want to make sure that you take the vehicle to a mechanic who can diagnose the P0257 issue and repair it properly. This ensures better performance for your vehicle, not to mention peace of mind for you.

Need help with a P0257 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

Check Engine Light
trouble codes
P0257

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the P0257 code.

SCHEDULE P0257 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


More related articles

P2003 OBD-II Trouble Code: Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2
P2003 P2003 trouble code definition P2003 is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates a fault with the Diesel particulate filter. This code is identical to the P2002 code except that P2002 is for bank 1. What the P2003...
P2043 OBD-II Trouble Code: Reductant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P2043 P2043 code definition Reductant Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance What the P2043 code means This code indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a malfunction with the reductant injector air pressure/temperature sensor. This sensor is used to reduce gases...
P0296 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 12 Contribution/Balance Fault
P0296 P0296 code definition The P0296 code means that the PCM detects that the voltage reading for the fuel injector circuit in cylinder 12 does not align with the manufacturer’s specifications. What the P0296 code means Part of the fuel...

Related questions

Check Engine light on
The powertrain control module (PCM) takes inputs from dozens of sensors. It then uses this information to control outputs such as fuel delivery and emissions equipment. If the PCM detects a problem anywhere in the system it will illuminate the...
Display isn't working, says a/c isn't connected, engine just lost power- but a/c, radiator, oil, gas, intake are all connected.
That sounds frustrating. You will need to get your car scanned using a scan tool that communicates well with a Prius. This will identify the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that you can use to begin your diagnosis. You can start...
Battery replaced, engine malfunction warning
Hello there. With any Check Engine Light, the first step is to have the code read to determine what system is involved with the fault. It is possible that this fault was caused by the vehicle losing power when the...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (844) 997-3624 · hi@yourmechanic.com