P0207
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detected an electrical problem with the fuel injector for cylinder 7.
Code P0207 means an electrical problem with cylinder 7's fuel injector circuit. Common causes: Bad injector (60%), wiring issues (30%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within days to prevent catalytic converter damage. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0207?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Immediate repair needed to prevent further damage.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, loud banging noises from the engine, strong rotten egg smell from the exhaust, significant power loss, or engine stalling.
Symptoms of P0207
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine misfires or runs rough
- 3Reduced engine power
- 4Poor fuel economy
- 5Engine may stall or hesitate
- 6Strong fuel smell from the exhaust
Common Causes of P0207
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The fuel injector itself has an internal electrical fault, causing an open circuit.
60% of P0207 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring to the cylinder 7 fuel injector prevents proper electrical flow.
30% of P0207 cases are fixed by repairing or replacing wiring
A loose, corroded, or damaged electrical connector at the cylinder 7 injector disrupts the circuit.
8% of P0207 cases are fixed by repairing or replacing the connector
The engine computer's internal driver circuit for cylinder 7's injector has failed.
2% of P0207 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the wiring harness and electrical connector for cylinder 7's fuel injector. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or a loose connection.
- Gently wiggle the connector on the injector while the engine is running (if safe to do so) to see if the engine idle changes or the code becomes intermittent.
How to Diagnose P0207
- 1Visually inspect the wiring and connector for cylinder 7's fuel injector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or looseness.
- 2With the engine off, disconnect the injector 7 connector and use a multimeter to check the resistance of the injector itself. Compare to specifications (usually 10-16 ohms).
- 3With the engine running, use a noid light to check for a pulse at the injector 7 connector. A flashing light indicates the PCM is sending a signal.
- 4Check for consistent power (usually battery voltage) at one terminal of the injector 7 connector with the key on.
- 5If accessible, swap the cylinder 7 injector with an injector from another cylinder and see if the code moves to the new cylinder. This confirms a bad injector.
- 6If all previous checks pass, diagnose the wiring harness for continuity and shorts between the injector connector and the PCM.
P0207 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2014P0207 is common on F-150s, especially with the 5.4L Triton engine. Injector failures are frequent, sometimes due to heat or fuel quality. Wiring issues are also a known culprit, particularly after spark plug or coil pack replacements.
75% fixed by replacing injector or repairing wiring
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2013Silverado trucks, particularly with V8 engines, can experience P0207 due to fuel injector failures. Ethanol in fuel can sometimes contribute to injector degradation over time. Check for corroded connectors or damaged wiring near the fuel rail.
70% fixed by replacing injector or connector
Dodge Ram
2009-2018Ram trucks with HEMI engines can also trigger P0207. Injector failures are common with higher mileage. Ensure the wiring harness is not chafed or damaged where it passes near engine components, as this can cause intermittent open circuits.
70% fixed by replacing injector or repairing wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0207 mean?
P0207 indicates the engine computer detected an electrical fault, specifically an 'open circuit,' in the fuel injector circuit for cylinder 7. This means the computer is not seeing the expected electrical resistance or signal from that injector.
Can I drive with P0207?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. Driving with a P0207 code means cylinder 7 is not firing correctly, causing a misfire. This sends unburned fuel into your exhaust, which can quickly overheat and destroy your catalytic converter. Drive only for essential, short trips until repaired.
Will P0207 clear itself?
No, P0207 will not clear itself. An electrical fault in the injector circuit requires diagnosis and repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying issue is fixed and the code is cleared, either by the vehicle's computer after several drive cycles or with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0207 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the injector 7 wiring and connector for damage. If they look good, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the injector itself. If the resistance is out of specification, replace the cylinder 7 fuel injector. If the injector tests good, check for power and ground at the injector connector and use a noid light to confirm the PCM is sending a pulse. Repair any wiring issues found.
How much does it cost to fix P0207?
The cost to fix P0207 varies. If you do it yourself, replacing a single fuel injector typically costs $50-$200 for the part. Professional repair at a shop, including diagnosis and labor, usually ranges from $150-$500.
P0207 keeps coming back - why?
If P0207 keeps returning, it indicates the initial repair did not address the root cause. Common reasons for recurrence include: a faulty replacement injector, a hidden wiring issue (corrosion or damage further up the harness), a poor connection at the injector or PCM, or, less commonly, a failing engine computer (PCM) that isn't properly controlling the injector.
Will P0207 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0207 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions. Additionally, a misfiring cylinder increases harmful emissions, which would also lead to a test failure.
What's the difference between P0207 and P0307?
P0207 specifically indicates an electrical problem with the fuel injector circuit for cylinder 7. P0307 indicates a general misfire detected in cylinder 7. A P0207 code will almost always cause a P0307 code, but a P0307 can be caused by other issues like a bad spark plug, ignition coil, or low compression, without an electrical fault in the injector circuit.
P0207 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, especially those with the 5.4L Triton engine, P0207 is a common code. These engines can be prone to fuel injector failures due to heat or design. Wiring harness issues are also common, particularly if other engine work has been performed recently. Always start with a thorough visual inspection and electrical testing of the injector and its circuit.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the resistance of the cylinder 7 fuel injector?
Good answer: Yes, I measured it at [X] ohms, which is within specification, so the injector itself is likely good. I'm now checking the wiring.
What did you find when checking for power and ground at the injector connector?
Good answer: I confirmed battery voltage on the power side and a good ground pulse from the PCM. This tells me the PCM is trying to fire the injector, so the problem is likely the injector itself or the wiring.
Did you try swapping the injector with another cylinder to see if the code moved?
Good answer: Yes, I swapped injector 7 with injector 5. The code then changed to P0205, confirming the injector itself is faulty.
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. This repair requires basic mechanical skills, a multimeter for electrical testing, and potentially a noid light. Accessing the injector can be challenging on some engines.
Cost of Waiting
Continued driving with a P0207 code means cylinder 7 is misfiring. This sends unburned fuel into your exhaust system, which will rapidly overheat and destroy your catalytic converter. A $50-$200 fuel injector repair now prevents a $800-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
These seals are crucial for preventing fuel leaks and ensuring proper injector seating. They often degrade with age and should always be replaced when removing or installing injectors.
If the injector was faulty for a while, the spark plug in cylinder 7 might be fouled. It's good practice to inspect and potentially replace it, especially if it's due for maintenance, as you're already accessing the area.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Multimeter
- Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Noid Light Set
- Fuel Injector O-ring Lubricant
P0207 is a common fuel system code. Most repairs involve replacing a single fuel injector or fixing a simple wiring issue. Your engine will run smoothly again once this is addressed.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the cylinder 7 fuel injector's wiring and connector. Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or a loose connection.
Step 2: If the visual inspection reveals no obvious issues, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the cylinder 7 fuel injector. Compare the reading to your vehicle's specifications. If it's out of range, replace the injector.
Step 3: If the injector resistance is good, use a noid light to confirm the PCM is sending a pulse to the injector. If there's no pulse, or if the pulse is weak, diagnose the wiring harness between the injector and the PCM for continuity and shorts. If wiring is good, the PCM may be at fault.