P25EF code meaning
Vacuum Pump Control Circuit B Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P25xx codes Check engine light
What P25EF means
P25EF says that the B circuit driving the electric vacuum pump is electrically present but its behaviour does not match the command: the feedback on the switched side looks implausible, or the pump runs without the expected effect on brake vacuum. No manufacturer documents P25EF publicly. Ford's hybrid OBD summary shows the type of logic used on the neighbouring circuit A, where P258B combines an out-of-window monitoring voltage with the relay off and a reading under 250 mV with the relay on. FCA's bulletin S1805000006 ties the A-circuit performance code to pumps that cannot hold enough vacuum and has hoses, check valves, fuses and terminals inspected first. A similar approach suits circuit B. CARB requires plausibility monitoring of such outputs. The brake pedal may feel firmer than usual.
P25EF at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P25EF
- Brake pedal firmer than normal
- Vacuum pump running longer or more often
- Warning lamp on
Common causes of P25EF
- Most likelyWorn vacuum pump that runs but builds too little vacuum
- PossibleLeaking vacuum hose or faulty check valve
- PossibleCorroded terminals causing an unstable feedback voltage
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Vacuum pumpVacuum linesVacuum sensor
What each part of P25EF means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| EF | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P25EF and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P25EF
What does P25EF mean?
P25EF means "Vacuum Pump Control Circuit B Range/Performance". P25EF says that the B circuit driving the electric vacuum pump is electrically present but its behaviour does not match the command: the feedback on the switched side looks implausible, or the pump runs without the expected effect on brake vacuum. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P25EF?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P25EF fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P25EF is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P25EF to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P25EF clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.