P0215 — Cold Start Injector 2 Malfunction
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0215 means
This code means the engine computer detected a problem in the circuit or operation of the second cold start injector, which sprays extra fuel to help the engine start when it's cold. It's often caused by a bad injector, wiring or connector issues, or a faulty temperature sensor signal. Repairs usually involve testing the circuit and replacing the injector or fixing the wiring.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Hard starting when the engine is cold
- Engine cranks longer than usual before starting
- Rough idle right after a cold start
- Occasional stalling shortly after starting
Common causes
- Faulty cold start injector
- Damaged wiring or corroded connectors at the injector
- Open or short circuit in the injector control circuit
- Faulty coolant temperature sensor sending wrong signal
- Engine control module (ECM) fault
Typical repair cost
$120 – $400
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0215 code?
Usually yes, especially once the engine is warm, but you may have trouble starting on cold mornings. It's best to get it checked soon so a cold start doesn't leave you stranded.
How much does it cost to fix a P0215 code?
Repairs typically run between $120 and $400, depending on whether it's a wiring fix or a full injector replacement. Diagnosis time and your vehicle's design affect the final price.
Is a P0215 code serious?
It's a moderate issue. Your car will usually still run, but ignoring it can lead to frustrating cold-start problems and extra fuel use, so it's worth fixing.
Why does my car start fine when warm but not when cold with a P0215?
The cold start injector mainly adds fuel during a cold start. When the engine is already warm it isn't needed, so a fault often shows up only on cold mornings.