This bulletin applies to 2012-2017 Chevy Caprice PPV, 2012-2018 Captiva, 2011-2017 Equinox and 2012-2018 Impala vehicles (engines involved include 3.0, 3.6 and 2.4L). Excessive use of E85 fuel can result in reduced engine power, MIL on and DTC P228C (fuel pressure regulator control performance – low pressure) set in the ECM as current or history. Some technicians may also find a prior repair of the high-pressure fuel pump. Excessive use of E85 may cause a plunger internal to the fuel pump to stick.
Take a large fuel sample from the vehicle in a clean glass or metal container.
Inspect for any contaminants in the fuel. Place the container on a level surface for about fiveminutes in order to allow settling of the particulate contamination.
If contaminants are found, inspect the fuel tank and strainer for buildup or blockage, then completely clean the fuel system and add E-10 fuel. Advise the customer to run a tank of premium or Top Tier E-10 fuel through the system to effectively clean all fuel system components after the 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.