P0288 — Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault
Drivable short-term, but fix now to avoid damage.
What P0288 means
This code means the engine computer found that cylinder 9 is contributing too little or too much power compared to the other cylinders, throwing off the engine's balance. It usually points to a clogged or weak fuel injector, low compression, a vacuum leak, or an ignition problem on that cylinder. Fixing it typically involves cleaning or replacing the injector and checking the cylinder's compression and spark.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Rough idle or engine shaking
- Noticeable misfire under load
- Loss of power or poor acceleration
- Increased fuel consumption
Common causes
- Clogged or weak fuel injector on cylinder 9
- Low compression in cylinder 9
- Vacuum leak affecting that cylinder
- Faulty spark plug or ignition coil
- Wiring or connector problem at the injector
Typical repair cost
$150 – $700
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0288 code?
Short trips are usually fine, but don't let it go. An imbalanced cylinder makes the engine run rough and can damage the catalytic converter over time, so get it checked soon.
How much does it cost to fix a P0288 code?
Repairs typically range from $150 to $700. Cleaning or replacing an injector is at the lower end, while compression-related fixes or ignition work can push the cost higher.
Is P0288 a serious code?
Yes, it's fairly serious because it means a cylinder isn't working properly. The car may still drive, but the rough running and potential converter damage make it worth fixing promptly.
Does P0288 always mean a bad injector?
Not always. It can also come from low compression, a vacuum leak, or an ignition issue on cylinder 9, so a technician will usually run a compression and balance test to find the real cause.