AutoCodes – Buick – P1218 Buick

P1218 Buick Code - Injection Pump Calibration Circuit

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses a calibrated resistor internally in the Injection Pump to determine fuel rates. Common causes include Powertrain Control Module (PCM) currently does not have a resistor value, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is unable to read resistor value. 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: P1218 Buick indicates Injection Pump Calibration Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Powertrain Control Module (PCM) currently does not have a resistor value, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is unable to read resistor value.
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 3,027

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 Jul 14, 2019

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

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

Code P1218 Buick Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses a calibrated resistor internally in the Injection Pump to determine fuel rates. the resistor value is stored in the PCM memory. If the PCM memory has been disturbed or replaced the PCM will relearn the resistor value on the next ignition cycle. The code is set when the key ON or engine running and PCM does not detects a correct current valid resistor value, or it determined that it was unable to read the current resistor value.

OBDII Code P1218 Buick - Injection Pump Calibration Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P1218 Buick Code - Injection Pump Calibration Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1218 Buick?

Powertrain Control Module (PCM) currently does not have a resistor value
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is unable to read resistor value

How to Fix the DTC P1218 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

The P1218 code usually sets when the resistor is missing out of the PMD or the system has been disturbed and the ECU is re-learning the resistor value. Most of the times the problem is the missing resistor. Cycling the key many times will relearn the resistor value.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1218 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.

Need more information about the P1218 Buick code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1218 Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1218 Buick 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.