P0272 Code - Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance Fault

What Does P0272 Mean?

This code means that the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) has identified that the reference voltage in cylinder #4’s fuel injector is out of range. Basically, every make and model has an acceptable range for this voltage that is predetermined by the manufacturer. If the voltage becomes an unacceptable amount – either too high or too low – this code gets stored. Of course, the problem is much bigger than that. If a fuel injector is not getting the power it needs, that means that its corresponding cylinder isn’t being given the fuel it needs either.

This will mean a leaner mix of fuel. The PCM reacts to this by trying to create a richer mix in the rest of the engine. Although this presents a temporary solution, fuel efficiency will automatically suffer. Likewise, cylinder #4 needs to work harder because of its lean mix, which will mean the cylinder head heats up and can eventually become damaged.

Unfortunately, this is just the beginning. The longer this problem is left alone, the worse the ramifications will be.

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What are the common causes of P0272 ?

Depending on year, make, and model, DTC P0272 may have number of causes. Here are some of the most common.

• Dirty Fuel Injectors – This is the number one cause of cylinder balance issues. This can be caused by dirty fuel, poor onboard fuel filtering, or carbon deposits. In some models, biodiesel has been blamed, perhaps for its low detergent qualities. Intensive fuel injector cleaning may solve the problem, but sometimes injector replacement is recommended.
• Improper Replacement – Some have gone forward with injector replacement, only to find it doesn’t solve the problem. If diesel fuel injectors are replaced, they must be run through a “learning procedure,” which enables the ECM and injector driver to learn the individual injector’s characteristics.
• Mechanical Problems – Anything that affects cylinder function, such as burnt valves, worn rings, or leaking head gasket, can affect power output of one or more cylinders, without necessarily causing a misfire.

How do you troubleshoot P0272 ?

With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. Now, clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if the code is reset.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0272 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P0272.

Fortunately, P0272 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.

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