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P0003 Fuel Volume Circuit Fault on 2015-2018 Ford Escape 1.6L: Diagnosis and Fix

Model: Ford Escape Fault Code: P0003 Posted: 2017-02-05 09:02

I recently replaced the high-pressure fuel pump and installed new fuel lines, but after road testing, the vehicle entered limp mode. My scanner showed only 50 psi at the fuel rail — significantly below normal. After pulling over and cycling the key, the car started running normally for a while. However, within two hours of driving, the issue returned. The low-pressure sensor reading varies between 75 and 90 psi depending on load. I suspect this is related to the P0003 trouble code, which indicates a fault in the fuel volume circuit (low voltage or incorrect signal). After reviewing technical documentation, I believe the issue may stem from the low-pressure fuel sensor located on the fuel line near the firewall. This sensor monitors fuel flow between the tank and high-pressure pump. The problem appears intermittent: the vehicle runs fine for 2–3 days before returning to limp mode. Cycling the key clears the MIL (check engine light), but no power or performance issues occur during operation. I plan to replace the low-pressure sensor tomorrow and will update with results after testing.

Related fault codes
P0003
Comments (5)
Anonymous 2017-02-05 10:35

P0003 refers to the fuel volume circuit, specifically a low voltage signal from the low-pressure fuel sensor. This is typically part of a two-wire circuit running from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) through the sensor and back. The fuel pressure regulator (FPR) is located on the fuel rail, not on the high-pressure pump. For accurate wiring diagrams, refer to BBBind.com for pinouts and routing details between the sensor and PCM. Check for open circuits or loose connectors in the sensor harness — a common cause of intermittent P0003 faults. See related trouble codes discussions on this forum for more insight.

Anonymous 2017-02-05 14:50

I inspected the low-pressure fuel sensor wiring, which is located near the firewall on the fuel line. All connections appear intact and properly seated. This issue is intermittent — the vehicle runs smoothly for two days before returning to limp mode. After cycling the key, the MIL turns on but no performance issues occur. I will replace the low-pressure sensor tomorrow and post an update once tested. P0003 specifically points to a low fuel volume circuit due to insufficient voltage from the sensor measuring flow between tank and high-pressure pump.

Anonymous 2017-02-05 15:49

I don't own a 1.6L Ford Escape, but based on standard OBD-II trouble code definitions, P0003 typically refers to the fuel volume circuit — not the fuel pressure regulator (FPR). The FPR is located on the fuel rail, while the actual fuel volume sensor is part of the low-pressure system and monitors flow from tank to pump. This aligns with the symptoms described in this post. Confirming this via official trouble code references on this forum helps validate the diagnosis.

Anonymous 2017-02-05 18:01

Clarification: The fuel pressure regulator (FPR) is located on the fuel rail, not on the high-pressure pump. The fuel volume return solenoid is mounted on the high-pressure pump and controls flow between the pump and tank. The low-pressure sensor is installed on the fuel line coming from the tank to the pump. This solenoid allows bidirectional fuel flow — both to the rail and back to the tank. I will replace the low-pressure sensor tomorrow and provide an update after testing.

Anonymous 2017-06-12 15:10

I'm experiencing the exact same issue. A Ford dealership performed a diagnostic and recommended replacing the high-pressure fuel pump — which we did ourselves yesterday. The problem returned within one day. I'm now following this thread to see if replacing the low-pressure sensor resolves it. Any updates on whether the sensor replacement fixed P0003? Thanks for sharing!