What’s the p1280 code on 7.3 Powerstroke diesel engine? Most definitely, you got this error code on a Ford truck.
Well, the p1280 DTC indicates the Injection Control Pressure signal circuit is out of range – low. There are a number of reasons why this code would throw up as you troubleshoot your truck.
However, you can clear this code without visiting a mechanic workshop – but that depends on the cause of its emergence.
This article details everything you need to know about the p1280 code on 7.3 powerstroke; the causes, symptoms, and how to clear it off your vehicle.
What Does P1280 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke Mean?
Technical meaning of p1280 code on 7.3 powerstroke: Injection Control Pressure Out Of Range-Low. This means that the injectors of your 7.3L engine are faulty or have failed completely.
The p1280 code may appear if you attempt to troubleshoot your vehicle after changing the ICP sensor. It is a DTC (Diagnosis Trouble Code) that indicates ICP (Injection Control Pressure) sensor failure. When this code appears on your auto scanner, it’s either the ICP is faulty or you installed a “fake” one.
Also, wiring errors and connector/harness problems may cause the p1280 error code. You can continue driving even though you’ve got this code on your vehicle; however, you shouldn’t delay too much in getting it cleared off – fixing the faulty component.
See Also: P0457 Code (Symptoms, Causes, and Fixes)
Function Of The ICP Sensor
The ICP sensor was used in the 6.0L and 7.3L Powerstroke engines. Its function is to read the oil pressure in the HPOS. The 7.3L Powerstroke uses a high-pressure oil system to pressurize the fuel that is being sent into the engine, so the ICP sensor monitors the pressure level.
This sensor works in hand with the PCM and the IPR (Injection Pressure Regulator). When it’s functioning well, the ICP helps to maintain decent engine operation, but when it goes bad, the PCM receives wrong signals, which may affect the engine’s performance.
Causes of P1280 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke | Causes of ICP Sensor Failure
The p1280 triggers when the ICP sensor is faulty – or the sensor’s harness/wiring is improperly connected. So, the causes of the p1280 code are simply the same as the causes of ICP sensor failure.
Here are the most typical reasons for the p1280 error code on 7.3 powerstroke.
- Faulty Injection Control Pressure (ICP) Sensor
- Stuck open ICP sensor harness
- Low/open ICP sensor circuit
- Poor electrical connections
- Problematic Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
- Open in VREF circuit
Symptoms of P1280 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke
The most common situation you may experience when your car is going to throw a p1280 code is rough idling.
Also, the failed sensor could cause the engine to hard start, and if the situation is left unattended, the later damage could be severe and more costly to fix.
How To Fix The P1280 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke
The ICP sensor is located right on top, in the engine bay, close to the driver’s side, just behind the alternator. To fix the p1280 code and clear it off your vehicle, you need to remove the sensor and replace it with a new one.
However, if much damage has been done to the other surrounding components, you should have a mechanic handle the situation.
Here’s how to remove the ICP sensor.
- Get a standard length wrench
- Wash the area very well
- Remove the serpentine belt from the alternator
- Remove the alternator and move it to the side
- Now you can easily see the ICP sensor
- Disconnect and remove the sensor, then install the new one
Note: If this seems too complicated for you to handle, you should get a mechanic to handle it. Also, if the wiring or sensor harness is what needs to be changed, it is best to have an auto technician do it.
Related Questions
Where Is The ICP Sensor Located On a 7.3 Powerstroke?
The ICP sensor (Injector Control Pressure Sensor) is located on the driver’s side of any Ford truck with the 7.3L Powerstroke engine. The sensor is usually around the HPOP – towards the front of the engine.
What Is an Injector Control Pressure Sensor?
To be precise, this sensor does an important job in Ford’s turbo-diesel engines, 7.3 and 6.0 Powerstrokes. The ICP sensor is an engine management component that monitors the fuel pressure going to the injectors. It is both an electrical and mechanical component.
Cost Of Diagnosing The p1280 Code
Most auto workshops charge between $100 – $150 per hour for code diagnosis; after diagnosis, if some parts need to be changed, you’d be charged differently. However, on average, it costs $200 – $300 to fix ICP sensor problems; this includes labor and parts costs.
See Also: P0121 Code (Symptoms, Causes, and Fixes)
What More?
The p1280 code on 7.3 Powerstroke tells that the ICP sensor is faulty, or the wiring/harness of the sensor is not as supposed. This is an easy situation, but if left to linger, it can cause costly repairs.
The most common symptom your car would exhibit when the ICP sensor is bad is “rough idling.” You could also experience other signs, depending on the affected components’ severity.