Is it safe to drive with this code?

Driving is typically not possible, as the code often prevents the engine from starting altogether. If the engine does run intermittently, driving is unsafe due to potential fuel leaks and the risk of sudden power loss or stalling in traffic—consult our site disclaimer for further guidance.

This code may affect your MOT test if the malfunction indicator lamp (check engine light) is illuminated at the time of testing, though the inability to start the engine would prevent the test proceeding—see our MOT disclaimer for detailed guidance on emission-related faults.

Roughly how much does it cost to fix?

Costs vary considerably depending on the root cause: a fuel filter replacement may fall in the low three-figure range, while fuel pump replacement (particularly high-pressure pumps on direct-injection engines) can reach mid to high three-figure sums, or even four-figure amounts if timing chain issues are involved. Labour typically represents a significant portion of the bill, and main dealer rates will exceed independent garage pricing.

Can this code indicate timing chain problems?

In some engines, particularly those where the camshaft mechanically drives a high-pressure fuel pump, a stretched or broken timing chain may prevent the pump from operating correctly, resulting in low rail pressure during cranking alongside camshaft position codes.

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← All fault codes | Fuel System

P00C6

Powertrain

Fuel Rail Pressure Low During Engine Cranking

The fuel system is unable to build sufficient pressure in the fuel rail during engine cranking, which typically prevents the engine from starting or causes extended cranking times.

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ⓘ Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code P00C6. We do not assess the urgency or safety implications of any specific fault. That requires in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Full terms.

Recommended next steps

Whether a fault is urgent, drivable, or routine depends entirely on the cause on a specific vehicle, and that can only be determined by a qualified mechanic with diagnostic equipment. If a warning light is illuminated, the most reliable next step is professional diagnosis.

What does P00C6 mean?

P00C6 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Fuel Rail Pressure Low During Engine Cranking.

This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.

About Fuel System codes

Fuel system codes cover everything from the tank to the injectors: fuel pumps, filters, pressure regulators, rail pressure sensors, and injectors themselves. On modern common-rail diesels these codes can cause hard starting, limp mode, or no-start conditions.

P00C6 is one of 469 codes in this category. Browse all Fuel System codes →

What we know about P00C6 specifically

We record the SAE J2012 standardised definition and the system this code belongs to, but we have not yet published detailed driver-reported symptoms, common causes, or step-by-step diagnostic guidance for P00C6.

Rather than invent that information by generating generic content from a template, we leave it out. For specific guidance, the most reliable sources are:

•your vehicle's own service manual or manufacturer-specific technical bulletins
•a qualified mechanic with a manufacturer-level diagnostic tool
•a marque specialist familiar with your make and model

Codes nearby

Codes adjacent to P00C6 in the P-code series. Many fault codes appear together with their neighbours because they relate to the same circuit or component.

P00BD Mass or Volume Air Flow "A" Circuit Range/Performance - Air Flow Too High

P00BE Mass or Volume Air Flow "B" Circuit Range/Performance - Air Flow Too Low

P00BF Mass or Volume Air Flow "B" Circuit Range/Performance - Air Flow Too High

P0100 Mass or Volume Air Flow (MAF) Circuit Malfunction

P0101 Mass Air Flow (MAF) Circuit Range/Performance

P0102 Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low

Other Fuel System codes

Other fault codes in the same system as P00C6. The ones with detailed guides have plain-English explanations, symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

P0087

Fuel Rail/System Pressure - Too Low Detailed guide

P0089

Fuel Pressure Regulator 1 Performance Detailed guide

P0090

Fuel Pressure Regulator Control Circuit/Open Detailed guide

P0100

Mass or Volume Air Flow (MAF) Circuit Malfunction Detailed guide

P0106

Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance Problem Detailed guide

P0170

Fuel Trim Malfunction (Bank 1) Detailed guide

Spotted an issue or have something to add? Mechanics, technicians, and drivers who have first-hand experience with P00C6 can submit a correction or expansion. We review every submission before publishing, mechanic submissions are prioritised.

Information only, not professional advice

The information on this page is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or repair advice from a qualified mechanic. Always verify any fault before paying for repairs. carfaultcodes.co.uk accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information. Full terms →

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