P0262 Cylinder 1 Injector Circuit High

Meaning of Code P0262

Code P0262 indicates excessive current consumption in the fuel injector circuit of cylinder #1. This issue can lead to injector malfunction (incorrect flow, blockage, or internal short circuit), disrupting the air-fuel mixture and damaging other components (spark plugs, O2 sensor, catalytic converter).

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Probable Causes

1. Electrical Problems:

   • Damaged wiring harness between the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and the injector.

   • Corroded, loose, or bent pin injector connector.

   • Internal short circuit in the injector (resistance out of specification).

2. Mechanical Failure:

   • Clogged or dirty injector (carbon deposits).

   • Premature wear due to ethanol in fuel (reduced lubrication).

3. Other Causes:

   • Fuel pressure regulator issue.

   • Leak in the fuel circuit.

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Symptoms

• Check engine light on (code P0262 stored).

• Unstable idle or repeated stalling.

• Loss of power and hesitant acceleration.

• Increased fuel consumption.

• Engine knocking (detonation) and high pollutant emissions.

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Diagnostic Procedure

Step 1: Visual Inspection

1. Check the injector connector:

   • Look for twisted, pushed back, or oxidized pins.

   • Clean the connector and apply dielectric grease to improve contact.

2. Inspect the electrical wiring:

   • Check wires for cuts, chafing, or short circuits.

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Step 2: Injector Test

1. Acoustic Test:

   • Start the engine.

   • Place a screwdriver against the injector (tip on the injector, handle to your ear).

   • A regular click indicates normal operation. No sound = faulty injector.

2. Resistance Measurement:

   • Disconnect the injector.

   • Measure the resistance between the terminals with an ohmmeter.

   • Normal Values: 0.5 to 2.0 Ω.

   • Out of Range = Injector to be replaced (short circuit or damaged winding).

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Step 3: Injector Cleaning

1. Use an inline cleaning kit:

   • Disconnect the fuel pump fuse.

   • Install the kit on the fuel rail via the Schrader valve.

   • Pinch the return line to increase pressure.

   • Let the engine run with the cleaner until it stalls.

2. Reset the code with an OBD-II scanner.

   • If the code reappears, replace the injector.

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Repair Procedure

1. Injector Replacement:

   • Choose a compatible injector (avoid uncertified parts).

   • Update PCM parameters if necessary (recalibration).

2. Electrical Circuit Repair:

   • Repair or replace damaged wires.

   • Secure the connector with the retaining clip.

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Technical Tips

• Avoid Ethanol: Prefer ethanol-free fuels (e.g., SP98) to extend injector lifespan.

• Preventive Maintenance:

  • Use an injector cleaning additive every 10,000 km.

  • Regularly check electrical connections.

• Check TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins): Some manufacturers publish specific solutions for P0262 (e.g., software updates).

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Risks if Ignored

A faulty injector can cause:

• Catalytic converter overheating (high replacement cost).

• Spark plug damage (pre-ignition or stalling).

• PCM deterioration (due to voltage spikes).