OBD II Codes (P0000 - P0099) | P0003 “Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low”

Meaning:

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0003 stands for “Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low.” Although rare, it’s not impossible for your scan tool to retrieve this code. The P0003 code is commonly seen on common rail diesel (CRD) engines, and gasoline direct injection (GDI) equipped vehicles.
Code P0003 simply means that your powertrain control module (PCM) has detected that your fuel volume regulator’s voltage readings are below the normal range.
Many owners have reported p0003 for the following makes: Ford (especially on a Ford Ranger), Peugeot, Dodge, GMC, and BMW.
Note: Although P0003 is a generic code, its definition may vary depending on the vehicle manufacturer. We recommend checking a repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

causes:

P0003 is a generic code. However, the triggers of this code may vary depending on the type of vehicle you own. Here are some of the possible causes of this code:

Electrical wiring/ harness issue in your fuel volume regulator
Blown #74 fuse (common on Power Stroke engines)
Faulty fuel volume control valve
Fault in the FVCV circuit
Problem with the PCM

Symptoms:

Here are the common symptoms related to the P0003 code:

Check Engine Light
Difficulty starting your vehicle
“Limp mode” may be enabled
Lack of engine power
Stalling
Decreased fuel economy
Decreased engine performance
Vehicle won’t start

The P0003 fault code could cause your vehicle from running and it can:

Effect caused:

Lower your fuel economy
Cause fuel instability which can cause permanent damage to your engine
Damage your catalytic converters (which is an expensive repair)
Damage your ECM (which requires special programming)
Damage your wiring harness
Prevent your vehicle from passing emissions

Diagnosis:

P0003 is properly diagnosed with an advanced scan tool capable of factory sensor readings (not just one from an auto parts store). A qualified technician can read the data from the advanced scan tool to determine when the problem occurred, or if it is still occurring. They may clear the code/light and test drive the vehicle while monitoring the scan tool data to see if the fault returns or is present.
Wiring may have to be inspected for damage, which requires cutting open the protective covering, inspecting the wiring harness, and replacing the covering.
Based upon the conditions of the testing, possibly clearing the code, and a road test while monitoring the data, further diagnosis may be required. Diagnosis may require multiple tools such as:

Solution:

The most common procedure to repair the P0003 code are as follows:

• Connect a professional scan tool. Verify the code exists.
• Check for any other fault codes which may be related to the issue, then clear the fault codes to see which fault codes return.
• Analyze scan tool data from the ECM.
• Road test the vehicle while analyzing the scan tool data from the ECM with other tools attached.
• Verify if the P0003 code returns.
• Inspect all the items listed above. (wiring, voltages, etc.)
• Further diagnose the problem with the special tools listed above if the problem appears to repeat. The signals and wiring from the sensor require analyzation to determine where the problem exists. If the signals are fine, then further testing of the wiring, computer, or fuel system is required.
• Replace the fuel pressure regulator, wiring, ECM (requires programming), or whatever is faulty.