P0265 — Cylinder 2 Injector Circuit Low
Drivable short-term, but fix now to avoid damage.
What P0265 means
This code means the computer detected a low voltage signal in the wiring or control circuit for the fuel injector on cylinder 2. It usually points to a wiring or connector problem, a short to ground, or a failing injector. It's often fixable by repairing the wiring or replacing the injector, and it's important to address it so the cylinder gets the right amount of fuel.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Rough idle or engine shaking
- Engine misfire or hesitation
- Loss of power during acceleration
- Increased fuel consumption or fuel smell
Common causes
- Damaged or corroded injector wiring or connector
- Short to ground in the injector control circuit
- Failed or clogged fuel injector on cylinder 2
- Poor electrical ground or chafed harness
- Faulty engine control module (less common)
Typical repair cost
$150 – $500
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0265 code?
For short trips, usually yes, but you shouldn't rely on it. A misfiring cylinder can damage your catalytic converter and leave you stranded, so get it diagnosed quickly. If the engine shakes hard or the light flashes, stop driving and have it towed.
How much does it cost to fix a P0265 code?
Repairs typically run between $150 and $500. If it's just a wiring or connector fix, it's on the lower end; replacing the fuel injector pushes the cost higher, especially with labor.
Is a P0265 code serious?
It can be. The cylinder isn't getting fuel correctly, which causes misfires and can harm the catalytic converter over time. It's not an emergency in most cases, but it shouldn't be left alone for long.
What's the difference between P0265 and P0266?
Both involve the cylinder 2 injector circuit. P0265 means the computer saw a low voltage (or circuit low) condition, while P0266 means it saw a high voltage condition. They often share the same causes, like wiring or injector faults.