P0294 — Cylinder 11 Contribution/Balance Fault
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0294 means
This code means the engine computer measured that cylinder 11 is contributing less power than the other cylinders, throwing off the engine's balance. It often points to a clogged or weak fuel injector, low compression, or a fuel delivery issue on that cylinder. Typical fixes include cleaning or replacing the injector, checking compression, and inspecting the fuel and ignition components for that cylinder.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Rough idle or engine vibration
- Noticeable loss of power
- Engine hesitation or stumbling
- Slightly worse fuel economy
Common causes
- Clogged or weak fuel injector on cylinder 11
- Low compression in cylinder 11
- Vacuum leak affecting that cylinder
- Dirty or contaminated fuel
- Worn spark plug or ignition component
Typical repair cost
$150 – $600
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0294 code?
Short trips are usually fine, but don't ignore it. The unbalanced cylinder can worsen into a misfire and damage your catalytic converter. Get it diagnosed soon, and stop driving if the light starts flashing.
How much does it cost to fix a P0294 code?
Repairs typically range from $150 to $600. Cleaning or replacing the injector is common, but if low compression is the cause, the cost can climb depending on the underlying engine repair needed.
Is a P0294 code serious?
It's moderate. The engine still runs but isn't performing evenly, which can lead to bigger problems if left alone. It's best to address it before it turns into a full misfire.
What does a contribution/balance fault actually mean?
It means the computer detected that cylinder 11 produces less power than its neighbors during combustion. This usually traces back to fuel delivery or compression on that specific cylinder rather than the whole engine.