Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Code P0216

[JTitone]

A couple of months back, I noticed the truck missing/surging between 35 - 50MPH. It threw the code P0216. After talking with a couple of mechanics they said it sounded like the "dead pedal" syndrome and that the VP44 was probably on its way out. In the meantime I started my VP44 replacement fund and kept driving the truck with the annoying surging at the speeds I indicated. This past weekend I changed the oil/filter, fuel filter and air filter. The surging/missing has now gone away. Could this have been a fuel filter issue which caused the code to appear? Last fuel filter change was 7,500 miles ago and the filter didn't appear to be clogged. Fuel pressure has always been 15 lbs +. If this is truly a fuel filter thing, how p. o. 'd would I have been if I plunked down the $$$ for a new vp? I scanned for codes and none appear. Anyone else out there had a similar situation?



Jim T.

1998. 5 24v, SLT, Ext Cab, 2WD, Long Bed, Fass DDRP, MBRP S/S Exhaust, ISSPRO Mech Fuel Pressure Gauge, Linux Bed

 

[JLandry]

Jim,

According to the Dodge Diagnostics Procedures Manual, a P0216 DTC can indeed be caused by a clogged fuel filter (fuel starvation to the VP44). However in your case, since you've been monitoring fuel pressure (presumably the inlet pressure at the VP44), then I'll bet the disapperance of symptoms will be temporary.

I drove for over a year with good fuel pressure, occasional P0216 DTC's, and no real symptoms... until one day at a very inopertune time just outside of Death Valley, CA my VP44 decided it was done and I wasn't going anywhere! I now carry a spare and the next time I won't wait so long to swap it out.

Be ready for that VP44 to let go at any time.

Drive safe,

John L.

 

[drlabatomy]

Timbo APPS



For future reference.



I'm pretty sure most of us have had the VP44 issue. Its a well known problem I installed a FASS system in my 2001 Sport and love it.