AutoCodes – GMC – P0273 GMC

P0273 GMC Code - Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies voltage to each Fuel Injector on the high control circuits. Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 5, Faulty Fuel Injector 5, Plugged Fuel Injector 5. 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: P0273 GMC indicates Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 5, Faulty Fuel Injector 5, Plugged Fuel Injector 5.
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 354

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 23, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0273 GMC Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies voltage to each Fuel Injector on the high control circuits. The ECM energizes each fuel injector by grounding the low control circuit of the fuel injector. The ECM monitors the status of the fuel injector circuits. When a fuel injector circuit condition is detected by the ECM, the affected fuel injector(s) is disabled. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects the fuel injector control circuit is shorted to ground for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P0273 GMC - Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0273 GMC Code - Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0273 GMC?

Dirty Fuel Injector 5
Faulty Fuel Injector 5
Plugged Fuel Injector 5
Fuel injector 5 harness is open or shorted
Fuel injector 5 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0273 GMC?

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

A 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 P0273 GMC 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 P0273 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0273 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0273 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

P0273 2014 GMC Sierra — Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0273 2015 GMC Sierra — Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0273 2016 GMC Sierra — Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0273 2017 GMC Sierra — Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0273 2018 GMC Sierra — Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

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 P0273 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0273 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P0273 indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a low voltage issue in the injector control circuit for cylinder 5.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0273 code on a GMC?

Symptoms may include poor engine performance, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, or the check engine light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P0273 code on a GMC?

Causes can include a faulty fuel injector, damaged wiring or connectors in the injector circuit, a malfunctioning ECM, or low system voltage.

4. Can I drive my GMC with a P0273 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it may lead to reduced performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage over time.

5. How is the P0273 code diagnosed on a GMC?

A technician will inspect the injector wiring and connectors for damage, test the injector itself, verify proper voltage and ground, and possibly test the ECM for proper operation.

6. How do I fix the P0273 code on my GMC?

Repairs may involve replacing a faulty injector, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or replacing a malfunctioning ECM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P0273 code on a GMC?

Costs vary depending on labor rates and the specific issue but can range from $150 to $500, with injector replacement being the most common expense.

8. Can a low battery cause the P0273 code?

Yes, a low or failing battery can cause voltage issues in the injector circuit, potentially triggering the P0273 code.

9. Is it possible for the P0273 code to be a false reading?

While rare, it is possible if there is an intermittent electrical issue, incorrect ECM programming, or a diagnostic tool error.

10. How can I prevent the P0273 code from reoccurring on my GMC?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting and cleaning injector wiring, ensuring proper battery voltage, and using quality fuel, can help prevent this code.