P0001 is a rarely seen OBD II error code. It indicates an issue with your Audi A3’s Fuel Volume Regulator (FVR) Control System.
P0001 is usually caused by a wiring problem or issue with the fuel volume regulator. The most difficult issue with diagnosing the fuel system is getting to the parts.
P0001 is a generic trouble code, which means it has the same meaning for all vehicles made for the 1996 model year and newer.
Audi A3 P0001: Quick Info
| Definition | P0001: Fuel Volume Regulator Control – Circuit/Open |
| Frequent Symptoms | Check Engine Light, No Start, Limp Mode |
| Common Causes | Faulty Fuel Volume Regulator Solenoid, |
| Breakdown Risk? | Yes, low fuel pressure can cause engine damage |
| Repair Difficulty | Low-Medium |
| Estimated Repair Cost (Parts) | Around $100 |
Audi A3 P0001 Definition: Fuel Volume Regulator Control – Circuit Open
P0001 has a relatively straightforward meaning. Here is the definition for the A3, separated by its two main parts.
Fuel Volume Regulator Control
The Fuel Volume Regulator keeps too much fuel from entering your A3’s engine. Too much fuel pressure can cause the injectors to leak and, in turn, engine problems.
It’s part of the broader fuel system, which starts at the fuel tank and fuel pump and includes the fuel injection system (fuel lines, fuel rail, and fuel injectors).
Circuit/Open
Your A3’s Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an open circuit in the FVR control system.
P0001 Causes
Here are the two most common causes of P0001 in the Audi A3
- Failed FVR solenoid
- FVR wiring harness issues
Audi A3 P0001 Diagnosis + Fix
Depending on your car’s model year and engine combination, fuel regulation can be handled in different ways, and the repair procedure will be different.
That being said, here’s a solid order of operations to work through when diagnosing P0001 in the Audi A3:
1. Check for Other Codes + TSBs
Checking for other codes can help you narrow down the causes of P0001 in your A3.
Technical service bulletins (TSBs) are directives from Audi that address specific and well-known problems. They also detail exactly how to repair the problem. If there is one related to the fuel volume regulator, it can save you a lot of time.
You can look them up here: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
2. Inspect The Wiring Harness Going to the FVR System
P0001 indicates the FVR system is open. Perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness going to/from the FVR control system. Look for burnt, cracked, cut, or otherwise damaged wiring. Make sure there’s a solid ground connection.
Repair the harness as needed. Wiring issues are a VERY COMMON cause of P0001 in the Audi A3.
3. Test the Harness at the FVR for Voltage
Verify the voltage level at the FVR is correct for your A3’s model year and engine combo. Most don’t get 12 volts, so don’t provide it with direct voltage to see if it’ll turn on.
Using a voltage meter, determine if there is any voltage present. If there isn’t, check the harness again. If the correct voltage is present at the end of the electrical circuit, it’s time to suspect the fuel volume regulator itself.
Symptoms
P0001 often appears with the following symptoms in the Audi A3:
- Check engine light
- Limp mode
- Slow/No start
- Lack of power
Conclusion
Replacing the fuel volume regulator is usually pretty easy, but look for wiring issues first. Remember that if you do pull the FVR, you are exposing yourself to raw fuel. Be careful, and proceed at your own risk.