P0262 — Cylinder 1 Injector Circuit Low
Drivable short-term, but fix now to avoid damage.
What P0262 means
This code means the engine computer detected low voltage in the cylinder 1 fuel injector control circuit, so that injector may not be firing properly. It usually points to a wiring short to ground, a corroded or loose connector, or a failed injector. Repairs commonly involve testing the injector and its circuit, then replacing the wiring, connector, or injector as needed.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Engine misfire, especially on cylinder 1
- Rough idle and engine shaking
- Loss of power and poor acceleration
- Increased fuel consumption or fuel smell
Common causes
- Short to ground in the injector wiring
- Corroded or loose injector connector
- Failed cylinder 1 fuel injector
- Damaged wiring harness near the injector
- Faulty injector driver in the engine computer
Typical repair cost
$150 – $600
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0262 code?
Short distances are usually okay, but you shouldn't drive on it for long. The cylinder 1 misfire it often causes can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. Get it diagnosed soon, and if the engine is shaking badly, avoid driving until it's fixed.
How much does it cost to fix a P0262 code?
If it's a wiring or connector fault, repairs may run $150 to $300. Replacing the cylinder 1 fuel injector typically costs around $300 to $600 including labor. Diagnosis first confirms whether the injector or just the circuit is at fault.
Is a P0262 code serious?
It's moderately to fairly serious because a misfiring cylinder can damage the catalytic converter and hurt drivability. It won't usually leave you stranded immediately, but the longer it runs, the higher the risk of costly converter damage. Fix it promptly.
Does P0262 mean I need a new injector?
Not always. A 'low' circuit reading can come from wiring shorts or a bad connector before the injector itself. A technician tests the injector's resistance and circuit so you only replace the injector if it's truly failed.