AutoCodes – Generic – P0213

P0213 Code - Cold Start Injector 1 Malfunction

Quick Answer

This fault code is stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) when the injector control circuit does not behave as expected. Common causes include Faulty Cold Start Injector 1, Cold Start Injector 1 harness is open or shorted, Cold Start Injector 1 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: P0213 indicates Cold Start Injector 1 Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Cold Start Injector 1, Cold Start Injector 1 harness is open or shorted, Cold Start Injector 1 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 15,164

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 Jan 15, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0213 Description

This fault code is stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) when the injector control circuit does not behave as expected. The ECM uses the induced voltage from the injector to indicate that the fuel injector circuit is operating correctly electrically. It does not signal the mechanical condition of the injector. When the ECM opens the ground circuit for an injector, to cease current flow, a voltage is induced into the winding. This voltage shows the electrical integrity of the injector and associated wiring. Absence of this induced voltage results in a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) being stored in the ECM.

OBDII Code P0213 - Cold Start Injector 1 Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0213 Code - Cold Start Injector 1 Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0213?

Faulty Cold Start Injector 1
Cold Start Injector 1 harness is open or shorted
Cold Start Injector 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0213?

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 P0213 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 P0213 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0213 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0213 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0213 Ford — Cold Start Injector 1 Malfunction
P0213 Mercedes-Benz — Cold Start Injector 1 Malfunction

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.