If your vehicle’s check engine light is on and you're seeing P0087, it means the fuel pressure in the fuel rail is below the threshold required for proper engine performance. This fault can cause hard starts, sluggish acceleration, or even stalling – and if ignored, could lead to costly repairs.

Common Symptoms of P0087

If your vehicle is showing the P0087 error code, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Engine hesitates or stalls
• Check engine light illuminated
• Poor acceleration
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Long cranking during start
• Possible “limp mode” activation

These are classic signs of low fuel rail pressure, often linked to issues in the fuel system such as a failing fuel pump, clogged filter, or pressure regulator faults.

What Causes Code P0087?

Understanding the root cause of P0087 fuel pressure code is crucial before jumping to repairs. Here are common triggers:

In diesel vehicles, this code may also relate to the high-pressure fuel pump or rail pressure control solenoid.

How to Diagnose Code P0087

The best way to diagnose and clear P0087 low fuel pressure code is by using a professional-grade OBD2 scanner with live data capability. That’s where the iCarsoft CR ULTRA shines.

Recommended Tool: iCarsoft CR ULTRA

The CR Ultra offers advanced diagnostics for over 80 vehicle makes, supports full-system scans, and includes live fuel pressure readings, ideal for resolving fuel system codes like P0087.

Diagnostic Steps:

1. Use CR Ultra to check live fuel rail pressure.
2. Inspect and test the fuel pump and relay.
3. Check for clogged or damaged fuel filters/lines.
4. Verify proper function of the fuel pressure sensor.
5. Clear the code and test drive to monitor if it returns.

iCarsoft CR Ultra provides real-time fuel rail pressure readings to diagnose P0087

Can I Drive With Code P0087?

It’s not recommended. Driving with low fuel pressure can cause misfires, engine overheating, or even lead to engine failure. If the vehicle enters limp mode, you may be limited in speed and acceleration, so it's best to diagnose and repair as soon as possible.

How to Fix Code P0087?

Your fix depends on the diagnosis. Possible repairs include:

• Replacing a faulty fuel pump
• Changing a clogged fuel filter
• Fixing or replacing damaged fuel lines
• Replacing a defective pressure sensor

With a reliable scan tool like the CR Ultra, you can pinpoint the exact issue without guesswork.

Preventing P0087 in the Future

To avoid repeating this fuel system issue:

• Use high-quality fuel
• Replace the fuel filter at recommended intervals
• Regularly scan your vehicle for early warning signs
• Keep your fuel tank above a quarter full to prevent pump overheating

Final Thoughts

P0087 is not a code to ignore—it’s a warning that your engine isn’t getting the fuel pressure it needs. Luckily, with the help of a professional OBD2 scanner like the iCarsoft CR Ultra, diagnosing and fixing low fuel rail pressure becomes straightforward.