BMW Fuel Pump Control Unit Problems | EKPS module

The BMW fuel pump control module is a critical component in the vehicle’s fuel delivery system. It controls the electrical power supply to the fuel pump, ensuring that the engine receives the proper amount of fuel to run efficiently. However, like all mechanical and electronic parts, the control module can fail, leading to many problems for the vehicle’s owner. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and solutions for BMW fuel pump control module failure, as well as ways to prevent it from happening in the first place. By understanding the potential issues and taking the necessary steps to maintain and repair the control module, you can keep your BMW running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.

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What is the BMW EKPS module?

The electronic fuel pump control module (EKPS | EKP ) controls the fuel pump. The EKPS control unit is different from the fuel pump. EKPS units are generally installed in the trunk (side panel) or under the rear seat while the fuel pump is mounted on top of the fuel tank.

The engine management system sends the request for the fuel required to the EKPS control module. The EKPS control module converts this request into a corresponding engine speed for the fuel pump in the fuel tank. The EKPS control module activates the fuel pump according to the engine speed. – TIS Document 16 02 03036

When replacing the EKPS module, it is required the new EKPS module is programmed (coded) to the car. Many BMW owners have successfully swapped their EKPS module with a used one without programming it as long as the used unit is from a similar BMW model and engine.

Symptoms of bad EKPS Module

In some cases, the engine may start but shake and then cut off. Waiting a few minutes will often allow you to restart the engine. List of possible symptoms you may notice if the EKPS module or one of its components fails.

• Warning message on iDrive screen
  • Fuel supply low
  • Fuel Pump Malfunction
  • Engine Malfunction! Reduced Power!
• Engine cranks but will not start
• Fuel pump voltage too low
• The engine starts and then shakes
• Hesitation under hard acceleration
• Engine misfire and sputtering
• BMW would not stay running

How to Diagnose BMW EKPS Problems?

If you are experiencing problems, reading fault codes from the EKPS module is a good starting point. You will need a BMW scanner to read and clear codes from the fuel pump module. The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner can read and clear fault codes through every control module of your BMW vehicle.

If any code is PRESENT, it needs to be addressed. If codes are in STORED / PAST status, they can be erased.

1. Plugin the OBD-II scanner into the diagnostic port under the dashboard.
2. Turn on the ignition; don’t start the engine.
3. Turn on the scanner and select your BMW chassis. Next, Select the Control Units menu.
4. Select Drive, then EKPS fuel pump control.
5. Once you enter the EKPS module, you can do the following.
   • Read Codes from EKPS Module
   • Clear Codes from EKPS Module
   • Perform Adaptations, Activations, Tests

What Causes BMW EKPS Problems?

A defective EKPS control unit, bad fuel pumps, or leaky injectors can demonstrate similar symptoms. Proper diagnostics can be a challenge, even for experienced BMW technicians.

• EKPS Module – EKPS module can fail to cause no start problems or cause issues under hard acceleration. A software update may address certain EKPS module issues. If a software update does not fix the problem, replacing the EKPS module may be necessary.
• Fuel Pumps – BMW cars have two fuel pumps. Low-pressure fuel pump (LPFP) and the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP). Either one can fail to prevent your BMW from staring or cause low-pressure error messages to come up. If you are experiencing problems where the car will run rough and the engine RPMs will not go past 2000, the problem could be fuel pumps.
• Leaky injectors – One leaking fuel injector can cause the same symptoms and even trigger fault codes in the EKPS module. Test the fuel injectors to ensure a leaky injector is not the problem.

EKPS Adaptation

This is a list of activities you can perform via the EKPS module.

• Reset the EKPS control unit
• Activate fuel pump

TIP! Your scanner must perform bi-directional tests to carry out these adaptations and activate sensors or modules.

Live Data

In the EKPS Module, you can display live data from various sensors communicating with the EKPS module.

• Fuel pump actual speed Unit r/min
• Setpoint delivery quantity via CAN bus from engine Unit l/h
• Specified delivery rate, fuel pump Unit l/h
• Specified speed, fuel pump Unit r/min
• Current at the fuel pump (A)
• The voltage at the fuel pump, terminal 15, terminal 30 (Volt)

Fault Codes

Hundreds of fault codes can be saved in the BMW EKPS module. Below are some examples of codes stored in the BMW EKPS module.

• 481B01 EKPS control voltage too low
• 6292 EKPS – Control voltage to low
• 6291 6293 – Control Current too high
• 0029DC – Low pressure in the high-pressure system
• 0029F3 – Fuel pressure sensor, electric (Could also be caused by a defective fuel pressure sensor. )
• 002B2C – High-pressure fuel system, fuel pressure
• 0029DC – High-pressure fuel, plausibility, cold start
• 29F2 – DME fuel high-pressure system, fuel pressure.
• 29F1 – DME (gasoline engine control)Fuel pressure fuel, plausibility
• 2AAE – Fuel pump, Intermittent

Conclusion

The BMW fuel pump and fuel pump control module are responsible for controlling the electrical power supply to the fuel pump and fuel delivered to the engine. When the control module fails, the fuel pump may not receive the proper voltage, leading to a lack of fuel pressure and, ultimately, no start condition.

Symptoms of a failed fuel pump control module include difficulty starting the engine, stalling while driving, and a noticeable loss of power. In some cases, the engine may not start at all. Diagnosis of a failed fuel pump control module can be made using a diagnostic scan tool to check for any codes related to the fuel system and monitor the fuel pressure while the engine is running.

It is important to note that starting problems may be caused by other issues, such as a faulty fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or a malfunctioning power supply circuit. These issues should be checked and addressed before replacing the control module.

A diagnostic scanner can read, clear, and perform bi-directional tests on BMW vehicles. Full system scanners that work on BMW vehicles can range from $150 to $800. Check the YOUCANIC Full System Scanner supports all makes and models.

We hope you find the BMW Fuel Pump Control Unit Problems | EKPS module guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your BMW.