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Home » OBD Codes » P0263 Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance Fault

P0263 Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance Fault

Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code

Issue with Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance

What does that signify?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that is applicable to vehicles equipped with OBD-II. While it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

The OBD II trouble code P0263 indicates a problem with cylinder number 1 contribution/balance. Essentially, this code indicates that the number one cylinder in the firing order is experiencing a fuel-related issue.

This is also a generic code, meaning it is common to all manufacturers. The reference is the same; however, a specific model’s manufacturer may have encountered a defective part or an error during installation.

Always refer to the technical service bulletins (TSBs) online for your specific year and make of vehicle. Look for related TSBs and follow the factory recommended repair procedure.

The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors the power output from each cylinder by comparing the acceleration or increase in speed of the crankshaft during the power stroke of each cylinder.

When one or more cylinders contribute less power than the rest, the fault code P0263 is triggered.

While the PCM performs this test to determine if a fuel injector is functioning properly, an auto technician can conduct a similar test to identify internal engine problems. By removing one spark plug at a time while the engine is running, the technician observes the RPM drop on each cylinder.

All cylinders should have a drop in RPM within 5 percent of each other. Any cylinder showing a lesser drop in RPM requires repair. Both tests compare crankshaft RPM.

This is a problem that should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent any potential damage.

Cross-section diagram of a typical automotive fuel injector (provided by WikipedianProlific):

Symptoms

The symptoms associated with a P0263 code may include:

  • Check engine light illuminated and code P0263 set
  • Reduced power and acceleration
  • Rough idle
  • Decrease in fuel economy

    • Causes

    In my experience, this code indicates a decrease in power produced by the number one cylinder. An electrical issue would trigger a code for either a high or low voltage situation for this injector.

    A lack of fuel to the number one cylinder is the most probable cause. The injector may have completely failed or it may be releasing a small amount of fuel instead of the normal conical spray. This could be due to dirt or contamination of the inlet filter on the injector.

  • Possible defective electrical connector on the fuel injector due to corrosion of the terminals or pushed out pins
  • Dirty or clogged fuel injector
  • Fuel injector failure

    • Diagnostic & Repair Procedure

  • Inspect the electrical connector on the fuel injector. Check the harness side for corrosion or pushed out pins. Examine the injector for bent pins. Correct any defects and apply dielectric grease to the connector terminals before reinstalling the connector
  • Start the engine. Use a long screwdriver with the handle to your ear and the blade to the injector, and listen for the characteristic ‘ticking’ noise indicating that it is functioning. The absence of noise indicates that either it is not receiving power or the injector has failed
  • Using a wire probe on a voltmeter, test the red power wire at the injector. It should show battery voltage. If no voltage is present, there is an open in the wiring between the injector and the fuel pump relay. If voltage is present and the injector is working, it is likely clogged and needs to be cleaned
  • Purchase a ‘direct fuel injector flush kit’ from an auto parts store. It consists of a pressurized can of injector cleaner and a hose connector for the fuel rail
  • Remove the fuel pump fuse from the main fuse and relay box on the driver’s side fenderwell
  • Start the engine and allow it to run until the fuel pressure is exhausted and it stalls
  • Pinch the fuel return line using needle nose vise grips
  • Remove the shrader valve from the fuel pump test port on the fuel rail. Install the hose on the test port.
  • Attach the can of injector cleaner to the hose and allow a few seconds for the cleaner to pressurize the fuel rail. Start the engine and let it run on the cleaner until it stalls.
  • Remove the cleaner hose from the test port and reinstall the shrader valve. Remove the vise grips from the return line and reinstall the fuel pump fuse.
  • Erase the trouble code and reset the PCM using a common code reader
  • Start the engine. If the rough idle persists and the code reappears, replace the fuel injector.

    • Professional Service

    While we always recommend addressing this issue through mechanical means, if that is not possible, we offer the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. All other codes will continue to function. If you are interested, please upload your ECU file to our portal.

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