AutoCodes – Generic – P1242

P1242 Code - Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies voltage to each fuel injector on the injector positive voltage control circuits. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Injector 7, Fuel Injector 7 harness is open or shorted, Fuel Injector 7 circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P1242 indicates Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Fuel Injector 7, Fuel Injector 7 harness is open or shorted, Fuel Injector 7 circuit poor electrical connection.
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 24,250

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 Nov 10, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1242 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies voltage to each fuel injector on the injector positive voltage control circuits. The ECM energizes each fuel injector by grounding the control circuit of that fuel injector. The ECM monitors the status of the injector positive voltage control circuits and the fuel injector control circuits. When a fuel injector circuit condition is detected by the ECM, the affected fuel injectors will be disabled and may disable the affected group of fuel injectors. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the ECM injector output driver detects an incorrect current on a fuel injector circuit.

OBDII Code P1242 - Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6 - AutoCodes.com — P1242 Code - Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1242?

Faulty Fuel Injector 7
Fuel Injector 7 harness is open or shorted
Fuel Injector 7 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P1242?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1242 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 P1242 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1242 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1242 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1242 Acura — Throttle Valve Control Motor Circuit 2 Malfunction
P1242 Audi — Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6
P1242 Buick — Fuel Injector 7 Control Circuit Shorted
P1242 Cadillac — Fuel Injector 7 Control Circuit Shorted
P1242 Chevrolet — Fuel Injector 7 Control Circuit Shorted
P1242 GMC — Fuel Injector 7 Control Circuit Shorted
P1242 Honda — Throttle Valve Control Motor Circuit 2 Malfunction
P1242 Isuzu — High Fuel Pressure Regulator Circuit High Voltage
P1242 Jaguar — Sensor Power Supply High Input
P1242 MINI — Secondary Upstream Manifold Air Pressure Sensor Too High in Deceleration
P1242 Mitsubishi — Fail Safe Control Monitor
P1242 Volkswagen — Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6

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 P1242 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1242 (Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6)?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential stalling.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1242?

- The code P1242 can be triggered by a faulty fuel injector in cylinder 6, wiring issues, poor electrical connections, or a problem with the Engine Control Module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1242?

- To diagnose the cause of P1242, perform a visual inspection of the injector wiring, test the injector resistance, check for loose connections, and use a diagnostic scan tool to monitor the injector circuit.

4. Can a dirty fuel injector cause OBDII code P1242?

- While a dirty or clogged fuel injector can contribute to injector circuit issues, the code P1242 is more likely to be triggered by an open circuit in the fuel injector wiring.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P1242 (Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 6)?

- Repair options include replacing the faulty fuel injector, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning electrical connections, or resetting the ECM after addressing the issue.

6. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P1242 present?

- It is not recommended to drive with code P1242 unresolved, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential damage if left unattended.

7. Can OBDII code P1242 be intermittent?

- Yes, code P1242 can be intermittent, meaning the issue may come and go, making it important to diagnose and address the root cause promptly.

8. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P1242?

- Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but it will return if the underlying issue causing P1242 is not fixed.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1242?

- Repair costs for code P1242 can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $500 or more, including parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1242 at home?

- Depending on the specific cause of P1242, DIY enthusiasts with automotive knowledge and tools may be able to diagnose and repair the issue at home, but complex wiring or injector problems may require professional assistance.