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Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code P1236. 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 P1236 mean?

P1236 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Electrical Fuel Pump Short to Ground or Open Circuit.

Manufacturer-specific notes

Some manufacturers publish additional definitions or variations for this code. Always cross-check with your vehicle's own service documentation.

BMW Electrical Fuel Pump Short to Ground or Open Circuit
Chevrolet Fuel Injector 5 Control Circuit Shorted
Ford Electrical Fuel Pump Short to Ground or Open Circuit
GMC Fuel Injector 5 Control Circuit Shorted
MINI Electrical Fuel Pump Short to Ground or Open Circuit
Mazda Fuel Pump Control Circuit Range/Performance
Vauxhall Electrical Fuel Pump Short to Ground or Open Circuit

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.

P1236 is one of 469 codes in this category. Browse all Fuel System codes →

What we know about P1236 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 P1236.

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

Spotted an issue or have something to add? Mechanics, technicians, and drivers who have first-hand experience with P1236 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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