AutoCodes – Lexus – P1278 Lexus

P1278 Lexus Code - Port Injector Circuit Number 3

Quick Answer

P1278 Lexus indicates Port Injector Circuit Number 3. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Injector, Fuel Injector harness is open or shorted, Fuel Injector 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: P1278 Lexus indicates Port Injector Circuit Number 3.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Fuel Injector, Fuel Injector harness is open or shorted, Fuel Injector 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 6,030

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 28, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1278 Lexus Description

OBDII Code P1278 Lexus - Port Injector Circuit Number 3 - AutoCodes.com — P1278 Lexus Code - Port Injector Circuit Number 3

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1278 Lexus?

Faulty Fuel Injector
Fuel Injector harness is open or shorted
Fuel Injector circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1278 Lexus?

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 P1278 Lexus 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 P1278 Lexus code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1278 Lexus code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1278 Lexus code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P1278 Lexus Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus related to the Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

The common symptoms include poor engine performance, rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What are some possible causes of the OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus indicating an issue with Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

Possible causes include a faulty fuel injector in cylinder number 3, wiring or connection issues in the injector circuit, a clogged injector, or a problem with the Engine Control Module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1278 in my Lexus that points to Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the code, checking the wiring and connections related to injector number 3, testing the fuel injector itself, and inspecting the ECM for any faults.

4. What are the recommended repair tips for resolving OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus related to Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

Repair tips may include cleaning or replacing the fuel injector in cylinder 3, repairing any damaged wiring or connections, clearing out any clogs in the injector, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

5. Can I continue to drive my Lexus with the OBDII code P1278 indicating an issue with Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle for an extended period with this issue as it can lead to further damage and potential safety hazards. It's best to address the problem promptly.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus related to Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the labor rates in your area. It's advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate.

7. Will resetting the Check Engine Light resolve the OBDII code P1278 in my Lexus indicating a problem with Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

Simply resetting the Check Engine Light will not solve the underlying issue causing the fault code. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary to address the problem effectively.

8. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus associated with Port Injector Circuit Number 3 from occurring?

Regular maintenance, such as using high-quality fuel and keeping up with fuel system cleanings, can help prevent issues that may trigger this fault code. However, some problems may still arise due to normal wear and tear.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast tackle the repair of OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus involving Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing complex issues like this code may require specialized tools and expertise. It's often best to seek professional help.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1278 in a Lexus related to Port Injector Circuit Number 3?

The repair time can vary based on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed. Simple fixes may take a few hours, while more complex problems could require more time.