P2278 Panther Six Diagnostic Trouble Code

P2278 Panther Six code definition:
P2278 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Panther Six.

P2278 Panther Six is described as Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction. This code is strictly about the incoming signal from the FRP (fuel rail pressure) sensor falling below the calibrated limit for a certain period of time. Any code that causes the vehicle's engine to die while running should be fixed as soon as possible, as it can be dangerous for both the vehicle and the passengers of the vehicle.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P2278 Panther Six diagnostic trouble code may include:

Excessive exhaust leak
Hesitation upon acceleration
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.

Common Misdiagnoses

Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem
Park/Neutral Postion (PNP) Switch Circuit Engine Torque Signal Circuit Problem

Repair Processes :

Check to make sure they are not burnt or corroded. If in doubt, get some Electrical Contact cleaner at any parts store if cleaning of the terminals is needed. 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. Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P2278 Panther Six 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 P2278 Panther Six.

Fortunately, P2278 Panther Six is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.