P0266 — Cylinder 2 Injector Circuit High
Drivable short-term, but fix now to avoid damage.
What P0266 means
This code means the computer detected a high voltage or open condition in the control circuit for the fuel injector on cylinder 2. It usually comes from a wiring break, a bad connector, or a failed injector that isn't responding correctly. It's often fixable by repairing the harness or replacing the injector, and fixing it restores proper fueling to that cylinder.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Rough idle or engine shaking
- Engine misfire or stumbling
- Hard starting or stalling
- Reduced power and poor fuel economy
Common causes
- Open or broken wire in the injector circuit
- Corroded or loose injector connector
- Failed fuel injector on cylinder 2
- High resistance in the wiring 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 P0266 code?
For a short distance, usually yes, but don't make a habit of it. A cylinder that isn't fueling properly causes misfires and can damage the catalytic converter, so get it checked soon. If the engine shakes badly or the light flashes, have it towed instead.
How much does it cost to fix a P0266 code?
Most repairs fall between $150 and $500. A simple wiring or connector repair is cheaper, while replacing the fuel injector raises the total, especially once labor is added.
Is a P0266 code serious?
It can be moderately serious. The affected cylinder misfires, which hurts performance and can damage the catalytic converter if ignored. It's not usually a breakdown emergency, but it deserves prompt attention.
Does P0266 mean my injector is bad?
Not always. P0266 points to a high or open circuit, which is often a wiring or connector problem rather than the injector itself. A technician will test the circuit and the injector to find the exact cause.