Powertrain, generic · Fuel and air metering (injector circuit)

P0253 Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control A Low (Cam/Rotor/Injector)

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modePossible

These codes cover the electrically controlled fuel metering actuator on a diesel injection pump – on common rail usually an inlet metering valve on the high-pressure pump that sets how much fuel is compressed. P0253 means the actuator A circuit reads low. Saab's 2011 9-5 diesel uses it for a control wire shorted to ground for more than 1 s, with the warning light at once. Saab's 3.0 V6 diesel, whose pump has two metering valves, also includes an open circuit (over 2.1 s) and goes into limp mode: limited pedal response and injection quantity, rail pressure capped at 60 MPa, warning light if the fault recurs on the next trip. Ford's equivalent is P0003, GM's P0091.

Likely causes

Control wire to the metering actuator chafed to ground
Connector or wire open (where makers include it under low)
Metering actuator faulty internally
Engine module faulty

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Limp mode with limited power and speed
  • Hard starting possible

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€80–1,500
Time0.5–4 h

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

Parts involved

fuel metering actuator ahigh pressure fuel pumpactuator wiring

Related codes

P0251P0254P0258P0003P0091

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