Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control A Low (Cam/Rotor/Injector)
What it means
P0253 is a diesel code meaning the 'A' fuel-metering control in the injection pump is reading low. This control sets how much fuel the pump delivers, so a fault can cause rough running, poor power, hard starting, and stalling until the wiring, control valve, or pump is repaired.
Can I keep driving? Marginal — a diesel injection-pump metering fault can cause stalling, hard starting, and poor power, so repair it promptly.
Real-world scan data
Appears alongside · share of P0253 scans
Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Poor engine performance and reduced power
- Rough idle
- Hard starting or stalling
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty injection-pump fuel-metering control valve/actuatorLikely
- Damaged wiring or a corroded connector at the metering controlCommon
- Failing injection pumpCommon
- Low fuel supply — clogged filter or a restricted supply lineLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the metering-control wiring and connector.
- Check fuel supply: filter condition, supply-line restriction, and low-side pressure.
- Test the metering control valve/actuator against the pump's spec.
- If the pump itself is faulty, replace or rebuild it. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0253?+
Can I just clear P0253?+
Related codes
Read & clear P0253 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.