E85 Issue for Chevy
This bulletin applies to 2012-2017 Chevy Caprice PPV with 3.0/3.6L, 2012-2015 Captiva VIN L with 2.4/3.0L, 2016-2018 Captiva with 3.0L, 2011-2017 Equinox with 2.4/3.0/3.6L and 2012-2018 3.6L Impala vehicles, all equipped with an E85 compatible fuel system.
Some customers may comment about reduced engine power, a reduced engine power message on the DIC and a MIL on. The Message and MIL may clear after cycling the ignition key. Technicians may find DTC P228C (fuel pressure regulator control performance – low pressure) has been set in the ECM as current or history. Technicians may also find evidence of a prior repair of the high-pressure fuel pump.
This condition may be caused by excessive use of E85 fuel, causing a plunger internal to the fuel pump to stick.
Take a large fuel sample from the fuel system in a clean glass or metal container.
Inspect for any contaminants in the fuel (place the container on a level surface for about 5 minutes in order to allow settling of the particulates).
If contamination is found, inspect the fuel tank and strainer for buildup or blockage, then completely clean the fuel system and add E-10 fuel. If contamination is not found, and diagnostics lead to a fuel pump concern, replace the high-pressure fuel pump and related lines. Advise the customer to run a tank of premium or Top Tier E-10 (1 tank) through the system to effectively clean all fuel system components after repair.
About the Author
Information courtesy of Mitchell 1
Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.
Mike Mavrigian
Motor Age Editor
Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.