Powertrain, generic · Fuel and air metering

P0149 Fuel Timing Error

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P0149 is a diesel code for a deviation of the actual from the target start of injection. On distributor pumps such as the Bosch VP44, a timing device sets the delivery start, and the pump control unit compares the actual position with the target. On the 2003 Saab 9-3 2.2 TiD (GM/Opel engine) P0149 means injection too early – too late is the manufacturer code P1149; it is monitored continuously above 600 rpm and leads to limp mode with limited fuel quantity. CARB has required injection timing monitoring for all diesels since model year 2010. On common-rail systems timing is mostly covered by injector-related codes, so P0149 is rare there.

Likely causes

Injection pump wrongly set or drive (belt, key) shifted
Timing device or timing solenoid of the pump faulty
Air in the fuel or low supply pressure
Pump control unit faulty
Crankshaft or camshaft signal disturbed

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Limp mode with power limitation
  • Starting problems up to no start
  • Smoke, knocking, rough running

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€100–3,000
Time1–8 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

injection pumpinjection timing devicepump control unitcamshaft position sensor

Related codes

P0148P0216P0016P0251P0335

References: law.cornell.edu, saabwisonline.com, saabwisonline.com.