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2021 Q60 Red Sport 400: Long Cranks and Hard Starting, P0087 Code

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:04 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400

Hey everyone,

I'm having some starting issues with my 2021 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400. Lately, it's been taking a lot longer to crank before the engine finally catches, and sometimes it feels like it struggles to start up. It's not a dead battery issue, as the starter motor spins strong.

The Check Engine Light came on, and I pulled the code P0087, which points to 'Fuel Rail/System Pressure - Too Low'. This is concerning for a car with only 35,000 miles. Has anyone with the VR30DDTT engine experienced this low fuel pressure issue?

What are the common culprits for this code on these engines? I'm hoping it's not something major like a high-pressure fuel pump, but I'm looking for guidance on what to check first. Thanks in advance!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:04 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The P0087 code indicates that the fuel pressure in your fuel rail or system is lower than what the engine's computer expects. This directly affects fuel delivery, leading to long cranks and hard starting, especially in direct-injection engines like the VR30DDTT.

Common Causes & Diagnostics:

  1. Low-Pressure Fuel Pump (In-Tank): This pump is responsible for drawing fuel from the tank and sending it to the high-pressure fuel pump. If it's weak or failing, it won't supply enough fuel.
    • Action: A shop can test the fuel pressure from the low-pressure pump.
  2. High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP): The VR30DDTT uses a high-pressure fuel pump (driven by the camshaft) to achieve the very high pressures required for direct injection. A failing HPFP is a common cause of P0087.
    • Action: This requires specialized diagnostic equipment to test its output pressure.
  3. Fuel Pressure Sensor: A faulty fuel pressure sensor can send incorrect readings to the ECU, making it think the pressure is low when it might not be, or vice-versa.
    • Action: Live data monitoring with a scan tool can help determine if the sensor is reporting plausible values.
  4. Fuel Filter: While less common in newer vehicles with 'lifetime' filters, a severely clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to low pressure.
  5. Fuel Line Restriction or Leak: A kinked fuel line or a leak in the fuel system (though you'd likely smell fuel) could also cause pressure drops.
  6. Fuel Pressure Regulator: This component helps maintain consistent fuel pressure. A faulty regulator can cause pressure to drop too low.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately. Driving with consistently low fuel pressure can lead to lean conditions, which can damage engine components over time.
  • Diagnosing P0087 often requires specialized tools to accurately measure both low and high-side fuel pressures.
  • A qualified technician can pinpoint whether the issue lies with the low-pressure pump, high-pressure pump, a sensor, or another component, ensuring the correct (and often expensive) part is replaced.
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