P0206
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detected an electrical problem with the fuel injector circuit for cylinder #6.
Code P0206 means the engine computer detected an electrical problem with the fuel injector circuit for cylinder 6. Common causes: Faulty fuel injector (60%), wiring harness issue (25%), connector problem (10%). Drivability: Limit driving, stop if CEL flashes. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0206?
Limit driving, stop if CEL flashes
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Immediate repair needed.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, significant power loss, loud engine noises, strong fuel smell
Symptoms of P0206
- 1Check Engine Light is on, possibly flashing
- 2Engine runs rough or idles poorly
- 3Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 4Engine misfires or shakes
- 5Poor fuel economy
- 6Strong fuel smell from the exhaust
Common Causes of P0206
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
An internal electrical open circuit within the injector itself prevents it from firing correctly.
60% of P0206 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, chafed, or corroded wires in the harness leading to the cylinder 6 injector can cause an open circuit.
25% of P0206 cases are fixed by repairing this part
A loose, corroded, or damaged electrical connector at the cylinder 6 injector can interrupt the circuit.
10% of P0206 cases are fixed by repairing this part
A faulty driver circuit within the PCM for cylinder 6's injector can cause an open circuit, though this is rare.
5% of P0206 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the cylinder #6 fuel injector connector for looseness, corrosion, or damage.
- Check the wiring harness leading to the injector for any signs of chafing, cuts, or burns.
How to Diagnose P0206
- 1Visually inspect the wiring and connector for cylinder #6's fuel injector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or looseness.
- 2With the engine off, disconnect the cylinder #6 fuel injector and check the resistance across its terminals using a multimeter. Compare to specifications (usually 10-16 ohms).
- 3Using a noid light or multimeter, check for power and ground signals at the injector connector while the engine is cranking or running.
- 4If the injector resistance is good and signals are present, test the continuity of the wiring harness from the injector connector back to the PCM connector.
- 5If all other checks pass, consider testing the PCM, though this is a last resort.
P0206 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford F-150s, particularly those with the 5.4L and 5.0L engines, are known to experience fuel injector failures. The electrical 'open' condition is a common failure mode for these injectors.
65% fixed by replacing the fuel injector
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Silverado trucks, especially with the V8 engines, can develop P0206 due to injector failure or wiring issues. The harness routing can sometimes lead to chafing near the intake manifold.
55% fixed by replacing the fuel injector, 20% by wiring repair
Honda Accord
2003-2024While less common than on trucks, P0206 on Honda Accords often points directly to a failed fuel injector. Wiring issues are less frequent but should still be checked thoroughly.
70% fixed by replacing the fuel injector
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0206 mean?
P0206 indicates that the engine's computer (PCM) has detected an electrical fault or 'open circuit' in the fuel injector wiring or the injector itself for cylinder #6. This means the computer is not seeing the expected electrical signal from that injector.
Can I drive with P0206?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. If your Check Engine Light is flashing, stop driving immediately. A flashing light indicates a severe misfire that can rapidly damage your catalytic converter. If the light is solid and symptoms are mild, you can drive for essential short trips, but prolonged driving will cause further damage.
Will P0206 clear itself?
No, P0206 will not clear itself. This code points to a hard electrical fault that requires diagnosis and repair. The engine computer will continue to detect the open circuit until the underlying issue with the injector or its wiring is fixed.
How do I fix P0206 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the cylinder #6 fuel injector and its wiring connector for damage or corrosion. Disconnect the injector and test its electrical resistance with a multimeter. If the injector is faulty, replace it. If the injector tests good, check for power and ground at the injector connector and inspect the wiring harness for breaks or shorts.
How much does it cost to fix P0206?
DIY repair costs for P0206 typically range from $50 to $200, primarily for a new fuel injector or wiring repair parts. Professional repair at a shop will cost between $150 and $500, which includes diagnosis, parts, and labor.
P0206 keeps coming back - why?
If P0206 keeps returning, it indicates the root cause was not fully addressed. Common reasons include a faulty replacement injector, an intermittent wiring issue that was missed, corrosion in the connector that wasn't properly cleaned, or a rare PCM fault that was overlooked.
Will P0206 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0206 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions, and a misfiring cylinder significantly increases harmful emissions.
What's the difference between P0206 and P0306?
P0206 specifically indicates an electrical fault in the fuel injector circuit for cylinder #6. P0306 indicates a general misfire detected in cylinder #6. A P0206 will almost always cause a P0306, but a P0306 can be caused by many other issues like a bad spark plug, ignition coil, or low compression, not just an injector circuit problem.
P0206 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, P0206 is often caused by a failed fuel injector itself, especially on higher mileage vehicles. The wiring harness can also be susceptible to chafing or corrosion due to engine bay heat and vibration. Always start with a thorough visual inspection and electrical testing of the injector and its circuit.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the cylinder #6 fuel injector?
Good answer: Yes, I measured it at [X] ohms, which is within specification, or it was open/shorted.
What did you find when checking for power and ground at the injector connector?
Good answer: I confirmed power and ground signals are present when cranking/running, or I found a missing signal.
Did you inspect the wiring harness for any damage or corrosion leading to the injector?
Good answer: Yes, I traced the wiring from the injector back to the PCM and found no visible damage or corrosion.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires a multimeter and basic electrical diagnostic skills, along with standard hand tools to access the injector.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0206 and the resulting misfire will send unburned fuel into your exhaust system. This rapidly overheats and destroys your catalytic converter, turning a $50-$200 fuel injector job into a $1,200-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If you're replacing the injector, it's a good time to inspect or replace the spark plug for that cylinder, as a misfire can foul it.
While not the cause of P0206, if you're already accessing the cylinder, checking the coil for cracks or signs of wear can prevent a future misfire code.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- Noid light or fuel injector test light
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
P0206 is a common code indicating a specific electrical issue. While it can cause serious damage if ignored, it's a very fixable problem, and addressing it promptly will restore your engine's performance and prevent costly secondary repairs.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the cylinder #6 fuel injector and its electrical connector. Look for any obvious damage, corrosion, or wires that are cut or frayed.
Step 2: If no visual issues, disconnect the injector and use a multimeter to test its resistance. Compare the reading to your vehicle's specifications (typically 10-16 ohms). If it's outside this range or shows an open circuit, replace the injector.
Step 3: If the injector resistance is good, use a noid light or multimeter to check for power and ground signals at the injector connector while the engine is cranking. If signals are missing, trace the wiring back to the PCM for breaks or shorts.