AutoCodes – Generic – P0287

P0287 Code - Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault

Quick Answer

Code P0287 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the acceleration rate of the crankshaft for Cylinder 9 was less than a calibrated amount. Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 9, Faulty Fuel Injector 9, Plugged Fuel Injector 9. 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: P0287 indicates Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 9, Faulty Fuel Injector 9, Plugged Fuel Injector 9.
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 7,861

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 Jun 02, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0287 Description

Code P0287 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the acceleration rate of the crankshaft for Cylinder 9 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 P0287 - Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault - AutoCodes.com — P0287 Code - Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0287?

Dirty Fuel Injector 9
Faulty Fuel Injector 9
Plugged Fuel Injector 9
Fuel injector 9 harness is open or shorted
Fuel injector 9 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0287?

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 P0287 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 P0287 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0287 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0287 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0287 Audi — Cylinder 9 Contribution Balance
P0287 Mercedes-Benz — Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault
P0287 Volkswagen — Cylinder 9 Contribution Balance

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 P0287 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0287 (Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault)?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, loss of power, misfires, and decreased fuel efficiency.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0287?

- The code P0287 can be triggered by issues such as a faulty fuel injector, wiring problems, a vacuum leak, or a problem with the cylinder 9 fuel injector.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P0287?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the cylinder 9 fuel injector, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any damage, testing for vacuum leaks, and performing a compression test on the engine.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P0287 present in my vehicle?

- It is not recommended to drive with code P0287 as it can lead to further damage to the engine and other components if left unresolved.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0287 (Cylinder 9 Contribution/Balance Fault)?

- The repair process may involve replacing the faulty fuel injector in cylinder 9, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, fixing vacuum leaks, or addressing any other underlying issue causing the imbalance.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0287 at home?

- Depending on your mechanical skills and tools available, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to fix the issue themselves by following repair guides and procedures specific to the code P0287.

7. What should I do if the OBDII code P0287 keeps coming back after repairs?

- If the code keeps reappearing after repairs, it is recommended to recheck the repairs made, perform a thorough inspection, and consider seeking professional help to diagnose the persistent issue.

8. Is it necessary to reset the OBDII system after repairing code P0287?

- Yes, it is important to clear the code and reset the OBDII system after repairing OBDII code P0287 to ensure the issue has been resolved and to prevent any further complications.

9. Can OBDII code P0287 cause damage to other engine components if left untreated?

- Yes, if left untreated, OBDII code P0287 can lead to damage to other engine components, reduced engine performance, and potential safety hazards while driving.

10. How can preventive maintenance help in avoiding OBDII code P0287 issues?

- Regular maintenance, including timely fuel injector cleaning, checking for wiring integrity, and addressing any engine performance issues promptly, can help prevent OBDII code P0287 and related problems.