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AutoCodes – Generic – P0272

P0272 Code - Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance Fault

Quick Answer

Code P0272 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the acceleration rate of the crankshaft for Cylinder 4 was less than a calibrated amount. Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 4, Faulty Fuel Injector 4, Plugged Fuel Injector 4. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0272 indicates Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 4, Faulty Fuel Injector 4, Plugged Fuel Injector 4.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 49,491
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 02, 2022
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Code P0272 Description

Code P0272 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the acceleration rate of the crankshaft for Cylinder 4 was less than a calibrated amount. During normal conditions, the ECM turns the Fuel Injectors ON and OFF in the Fuel Injection System.
OBDII Code P0272 - Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance Fault - AutoCodes.com
P0272 Code - Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance Fault
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0272?

  • Dirty Fuel Injector 4
  • Faulty Fuel Injector 4
  • Plugged Fuel Injector 4
  • Fuel Injector #4 harness is open or shorted
  • Fuel Injector #4 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0272?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Clogged or partially clogged fuel injector can cause this code. Start by performing an injector flush before replacing the injector.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0272 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0272 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0272 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0272 Code

No Frequently Asked Questions about P0272 Code found.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0272 OBDII Code

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  • Peugeot 70 reg boxer changed no 4 injector but still showing P0272 fault also strong smell of unburnt fuel from exhaust. Wiring ok to injector. Delphi injectors. When you clear fault code engine runs ok then after about 10 seconds starts missing again.

    Reply to Comment

  • If you have a new fuel injector, then the next step is to check if the spark plug is firing. Change or swap the spark plug to verify the problem is the spark plug.

    Reply to Comment
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