AutoCodes – Generic – P0290

P0290 Code - Cylinder 10 Contribution/Balance Fault

Quick Answer

Code P0290 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the acceleration rate of the crankshaft for Cylinder 10 was less than a calibrated amount. Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 10, Faulty Fuel Injector 10, Plugged Fuel Injector 10. 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: P0290 indicates Cylinder 10 Contribution/Balance Fault.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 10, Faulty Fuel Injector 10, Plugged Fuel Injector 10.
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 12,824

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 Apr 15, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0290 Description

Code P0290 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the acceleration rate of the crankshaft for Cylinder 10 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 P0290 - Cylinder 10 Contribution/Balance Fault - AutoCodes.com — P0290 Code - Cylinder 10 Contribution/Balance Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0290?

Dirty Fuel Injector 10
Faulty Fuel Injector 10
Plugged Fuel Injector 10
Fuel Injector #10 harness is open or shorted
Fuel Injector #10 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0290?

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 P0290 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 P0290 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0290 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0290 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0290 Audi — Cylinder 10 Contribution Balance
P0290 Mercedes-Benz — Cylinder 10 Contribution/Balance Fault
P0290 Volkswagen — Cylinder 10 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.