P0500 Opel Zafira Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0500 Opel Zafira code definition:
P0500 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Opel Zafira.

P0500 Opel Zafira shows up when there's an electrical problem that causes the fuel volume regulator to malfunction and open. It's quite an unusual problem and likely intermittent. This is because the barometric pressure sensor is part of the MAF sensor. Sometimes, the MAF's sensing wire can accumulate and get covered with dirt, dust and/or oil residue, which can also lead to the error code.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0500 Opel Zafira diagnostic trouble code may include:

Lack of power
Faulty O2 Sensor
Poor acceleration
Hesitation upon acceleration

Possible Causes :

Some aftermarket accessories and performance modifications
A faulty oxygen sensor. This will set a code in itself, however, a faulty oxygen sensor does not automatically condemn the sensor. The code just means that the sensor signal was not within specifications. An air leak or any of the above will cause an erroneous signal. There is a multitude of O2 codes relating to O2 performance which gives a clue to the problematic area.
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.

Common Misdiagnoses

TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem
Problem

Repair Processes :

Oxygen sensors signal the engine management computer the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust, which is used in determining and controlling the fuel ratio. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. Pack the connector cavity with dielectric silicone compound (same stuff they use for light bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and reassemble.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0500 Opel Zafira is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P0500 Opel Zafira.

Fortunately, P0500 Opel Zafira is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.