Okay I put my thinking cap on.
Here's my theory:

a) Chain is allowing timing to go far enough out to throw the P0088 (timing being off is the only cause I've seen for that code), adjuster rings may be shot too.


I think it jumped a tooth.
I also think I know when it happened.
Was like a big BUMP while cruising then rough running for a while, got a MAF code, cleared it and it never came back.
Never considered it again until now.

Will know soon enough on that one.


b) bad alternator clutch pulley.


Surely that would cause the car to freak out if it's trying to seize or slipping on it's axle.

That would explain the limp mode after multiple screeches, with EPC light each time it screeches.
Makes perfect sense now.

Wonder how much those cost......pah.

 

It appears that P0088 on it's own is only ever a timing problem or a high pressure sensor problem in case anyone reads this in future.
In my case it wasn't the sensor throwing the P0088 but it seems to have resolved the P2293.

If you get a P0088, change the sensor (and be 100% it's the correct sensor part number for your car), if not that then your timing is wrong at the chain end of the engine. Edit: ask me how I know - next post).

Couldn't find any other possible cause. Researched a silly number of hours looking for instances of this code.

Failing HPFP throws a P0087, as does a worn follower and/or lobe.

P0088 never really comes up in any thread related to HPFP failure.

If you ever remove the timing cover for the chain, be sure to pull out and clean the filter in the flange of the cover where oil enters the cover from the block, mine was heavy clogged with silicone.

 

My timing chain was off by one tooth. Replaced the chain, tensioner, rings and gasket.
Timing follows specified within one degree now so looks good.

No sign of the P2293 either since I replaced the Fuel parts so I figure the thrust sensor did the job on that one.

Just need to figure out what is causing the main problem I'm having now LOL.

Think it;s the alternator pulley or bearings going. Only happens after about 10-15 mins of driving, I get a metallic cricket sound from engine bay, EPC light comes on and power is cut. Then it goes away, then it comes back, then it goes away, then it goes limp.

Like drunk sex.

Weird noises, poor performance, then ultimately a let down.

 

Glad to hear you got it back on the road.