AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0279 Chevrolet

P0279 Chevrolet Code - Cylinder 7 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 7, Faulty Fuel Injector 7, Plugged Fuel Injector 7. 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: P0279 Chevrolet indicates Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Fuel Injector 7, Faulty Fuel Injector 7, Plugged Fuel Injector 7.
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 496

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 P0279 Chevrolet 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 P0279 Chevrolet - Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0279 Chevrolet Code - Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0279 Chevrolet?

Dirty Fuel Injector 7
Faulty Fuel Injector 7
Plugged 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 P0279 Chevrolet?

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 P0279 Chevrolet 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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Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

P0279 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0279 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0279 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0279 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0279 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 7 Injector Control Circuit Low Voltage

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 P0279 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0279 mean on a Chevrolet?

P0279 indicates a low voltage issue in the injector control circuit for cylinder 7, meaning the engine control module (ECM) is detecting insufficient voltage to properly operate the fuel injector.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0279 in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms may include poor engine performance, misfires, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and in some cases, the engine may not start.

3. What causes the P0279 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty fuel injector, damaged or corroded wiring/connectors in the injector circuit, a failed ECM, or low system voltage.

4. Can I drive my Chevrolet with a P0279 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, itâ€™s not recommended as it can lead to poor performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage if the issue is not addressed promptly.

5. How do I diagnose the P0279 code on my Chevrolet?

Begin by inspecting the wiring and connectors for cylinder 7â€™s injector for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test for proper voltage and continuity, and check the fuel injector's resistance.

6. How can I fix the P0279 code on a Chevrolet?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty fuel injector, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning corroded connections, or replacing the ECM if itâ€™s determined to be defective.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P0279 code on a Chevrolet?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing a fuel injector typically costs $150â€“$400 for parts and labor, while wiring repairs or ECM replacement may range from $200 to $1,000 or more.

8. Can a bad fuel injector cause the P0279 code?

Yes, a bad or clogged fuel injector can cause the P0279 code by failing to operate properly due to internal damage or electrical issues.

9. Will clearing the P0279 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but it wonâ€™t resolve the underlying issue. The code will likely return if the root cause isnâ€™t addressed.

10. Can a weak battery trigger the P0279 code on a Chevrolet?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can lead to low voltage in the injector circuit, which may trigger the P0279 code. Check the battery and charging system as part of the diagnosis.