Quick Answer
P0273 means: DTC P0273 indicates an open circuit in the fuel injector for cylinder 5.
Can I drive with P0273? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid engine damage.
Common Questions
What does P0273 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC P0273 means there's an issue with the fuel injector circuit for cylinder 5. This can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and reduced fuel efficiency. If left unchecked, it can cause more severe engine problems.
What are the most common causes of P0273 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common causes include damaged wiring (60% likelihood), faulty fuel injectors (25%), and corroded connectors (10%). Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $400 for injector replacement.
Can I drive my car with P0273 or should I stop immediately?
It's best to avoid driving your car if you see the P0273 code. Continuing to drive can lead to reduced engine performance and potential damage. It's advisable to have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose P0273 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P0273, connect the GeekOBD APP to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Check for the P0273 code, review freeze frame data, and note any related codes. This information will help you understand the context of the problem.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0273?
Commonly affected vehicles include 2010-2015 Ford F-150 models, but other Ford vehicles with similar engine configurations may also experience this issue. Always check for any recalls or service bulletins related to your vehicle.
How can I prevent P0273 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking the fuel system and electrical connections, can help prevent P0273. Ensure your vehicle receives timely oil changes and inspections to catch potential issues early.
What is P0273?
DTC P0273 indicates a problem with the fuel injector circuit related to cylinder 5. This code specifically points to an open circuit, meaning that there's a break in the electrical connection for the fuel injector, preventing it from receiving the necessary signals from the Engine Control Module (ECM). When the ECM detects that the voltage level from the fuel injector's circuit is lower than expected, it triggers the P0273 code. This situation can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and a decrease in fuel economy. In many cases, drivers may notice symptoms such as a rough idle, stalling, or a noticeable decrease in acceleration power. Vehicles like the 2010-2015 Ford F-150 are particularly prone to this issue due to the extensive use of fuel injectors that can become clogged or have electrical faults. Ignoring this code can lead to further engine damage and costly repairs, making it crucial to address it promptly. To resolve the P0273 code, technicians typically inspect the wiring and connectors associated with cylinder 5’s injector, ensuring that they are intact and free of corrosion. If the wiring is fine, the injector itself may need testing or replacement.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0273 is present:
- The check engine light remains illuminated, signaling a persistent issue that needs addressing.
- Engine hesitation during acceleration, leading to a frustrating driving experience, especially when merging onto highways.
- Fuel economy may decrease by up to 15%, impacting your wallet during regular fill-ups.
- Rough idle when the vehicle is at a standstill, causing vibrations that can be felt inside the cabin.
- Unexplained engine stalling, particularly at low speeds or when coming to a stop, posing a safety risk.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0273 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of P0273 is a broken or damaged wire leading to the fuel injector, with a likelihood of 60%. Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of wear.
- A faulty fuel injector itself is another cause, which could lead to improper fuel delivery. This has a 25% likelihood and often requires replacement.
- Corroded connectors that disrupt the electrical flow are also common, accounting for about 10% of cases. Cleaning or replacing these connectors can prevent future issues.
- Less common but serious causes include a malfunctioning ECM, which can misdiagnose the injector's performance, leading to further complications.
- A rare cause can be software issues in the ECM, requiring a software update or reprogramming to resolve.
P0273 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring to restore the circuit connection.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 80%
Fuel Injector Replacement
Replacing the faulty fuel injector for cylinder 5.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 90%
ECM Reprogramming
Updating or reprogramming the engine control module if software issues are detected.
- Total: $200 - $500
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for P0273
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0273 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0273. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the fuel injector circuit and the injector itself (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the fuel injector circuit and the injector itself (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the operation of the injector and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After repairs, verify the operation of the injector and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and check for any reoccurring codes (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and check for any reoccurring codes (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Fuel Injector Circuit Repair on a 2013 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2013 Ford F-150, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported a check engine light and rough idling.
Diagnosis: After scanning the OBD2 system, P0273 was found. A visual inspection revealed frayed wiring near the injector.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and replaced the fuel injector for cylinder 5.
Cost: $350 (wiring repair $100, injector replacement $250)
Result: The check engine light was cleared, and the vehicle ran smoothly after the repair.
Case Study 2: ECM Reprogramming for a 2014 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2014 Ford F-150, 60,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced engine stalling and poor acceleration.
Diagnosis: P0273 was triggered along with software compatibility issues in the ECM.
Solution: The ECM was reprogrammed, and the fuel injector was tested and deemed functional.
Cost: $450 (ECM reprogramming $300, diagnostic $150)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle showed improved performance with no further codes.