When the code is set
The fuel rail pressure sensor reports the actual fuel pressure to the ECM. When it stays below the requested pressure for longer, and by more than the manufacturer allows, the ECM stores P0087 and often limits power.
Can I keep driving?
Have it checked soon
The car can often still be driven, but avoid it as far as you can. The engine may stall while driving, and driving on raises the risk of expensive damage to the fuel system. Have the car checked as soon as possible; if the engine stalls, have it recovered.
Symptoms
- The check engine light is on.
- Less power under load, or limp mode.
- Long cranking before the engine starts.
- Rough running, misfires or stalling.
Common causes
- A clogged fuel filter (on diesels, also the water separator).
- Very little fuel in the tank.
- Air getting in on the low-pressure side (diesel).
- A weak lift pump in the tank.
- A faulty fuel pressure sensor, regulator or pressure control valve.
- A leak on the injector return line.
- A worn high-pressure pump.
How to find the cause
A mechanic usually works like this:
- Read all codes and compare actual and requested fuel pressure on a test drive.
- Check the low-pressure side first: the filter, the lift pump and the pressure before the high-pressure pump.
- On a diesel, check whether air is getting into the system, and measure the injector return flow.
- Only then check the regulator, the pressure sensor and the high-pressure pump.
Other ways the code is written
Scan tools and workshop printouts sometimes show the code with extra characters:
- P008700
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Evoca fault code diagnostics is an informational aid and does not replace a professional inspection of your vehicle. Only an inspection of the vehicle at a workshop can confirm the cause of a fault.
Check P0087 for your car
Enter the code and, if you like, your car details. You get a free report with possible causes and next steps by email.