AutoCodes – Buick – P0273 Buick

P0273 Buick Code - Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies voltage to each Fuel Injector on the high control circuits. Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 5, Faulty Fuel Injector 5, Plugged Fuel Injector 5. 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: P0273 Buick indicates Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 5, Faulty Fuel Injector 5, Plugged Fuel Injector 5.
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 247

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 Mar 23, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0273 Buick Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies voltage to each Fuel Injector on the high control circuits. The ECM energizes each fuel injector by grounding the low control circuit of the fuel injector. The ECM monitors the status of the fuel injector circuits. When a fuel injector circuit condition is detected by the ECM, the affected fuel injector(s) is disabled. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects the fuel injector control circuit is shorted to ground for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P0273 Buick - Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0273 Buick Code - Cylinder 5 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0273 Buick?

Dirty Fuel Injector 5
Faulty Fuel Injector 5
Plugged Fuel Injector 5
Fuel injector 5 harness is open or shorted
Fuel injector 5 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0273 Buick?

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

A 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 P0273 Buick 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.

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 P0273 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0273 mean on a Buick?

P0273 indicates a low voltage issue in the fuel injector control circuit for cylinder 5, meaning the engine control module (ECM) is detecting a problem with the electrical signal to that injector.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0273 in a Buick?

Symptoms may include rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, lack of engine power, increased emissions, and in some cases, the engine may stall.

3. What causes the P0273 code on a Buick?

Common causes include a faulty fuel injector, damaged or corroded wiring and connectors in the injector circuit, a malfunctioning ECM, or low fuel pressure.

4. Can I drive my Buick with the P0273 code active?

While the car may still be drivable, continuing to drive with this code can cause further engine damage, decreased performance, and higher emissions. Itâ€™s best to address the issue promptly.

5. How is the P0273 code diagnosed on a Buick?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to verify the code, inspect the injector wiring and connectors, test the voltage and resistance in the circuit, and check the fuel injector for proper operation.

6. How do I fix the P0273 code on my Buick?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty fuel injector, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning corroded connections, or in rare cases, replacing the ECM.

7. Can a dirty fuel injector cause the P0273 code?

A dirty or clogged injector is unlikely to specifically trigger P0273, as this code refers to a low voltage issue in the injector circuit, not a mechanical blockage.

8. How much does it cost to fix a P0273 code on a Buick?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on whether the issue is a simple wiring repair, injector replacement, or ECM replacement.

9. Is the P0273 code unique to Buick vehicles?

No, the P0273 code is a generic OBDII code applicable to all vehicles with cylinder 5, but the specific troubleshooting steps may vary slightly by make and model.

10. Can a weak battery cause the P0273 code in a Buick?

While unlikely, a weak or failing battery could cause electrical issues that might indirectly contribute to this code. Itâ€™s worth checking the battery and charging system as part of the diagnostic process.