P0213
Fix within a few daysMalfunction in the Cold Start Injector Circuit
Code P0213 means there's a problem with the cold start injector circuit. Common causes: Faulty cold start injector (60%), wiring issues (30%). Drivability: Yes, for short trips, but fix soon. Repair cost: $100-$300 DIY, $200-$600 professional.
Can I Drive With P0213?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways until fixed. Expect hard starting and rough idle when cold.
Stop driving immediately if: Engine fails to start at all, strong raw fuel smell, or a flashing Check Engine Light (indicating severe misfire).
Symptoms of P0213
- 1Engine is hard to start when cold
- 2Engine runs rough or stalls immediately after a cold start
- 3Increased fuel consumption
- 4Engine may run rich (smell of fuel from exhaust)
- 5Check Engine Light is on
Common Causes of P0213
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The cold start injector itself can be clogged, stuck open, or electrically failed, preventing proper fuel delivery during cold starts.
60% of P0213 cases are fixed by replacing the cold start injector
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors to the cold start injector can interrupt the electrical signal, causing it to malfunction.
30% of P0213 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A faulty relay or blown fuse in the cold start injector circuit can prevent power from reaching the injector.
8% of P0213 cases are fixed by replacing a relay or fuse
A rare internal fault in the ECM's driver circuit for the cold start injector can prevent it from operating correctly.
2% of P0213 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the cold start injector's wiring harness and connector for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- Ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged and in good condition, as low voltage can affect injector operation during cold starts.
How to Diagnose P0213
- 1Inspect the cold start injector's wiring and connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Using a multimeter, check the electrical resistance of the cold start injector; compare to factory specifications.
- 3Verify power and ground signals at the cold start injector connector when the engine is cranking cold.
- 4If accessible, remove the cold start injector and observe its spray pattern and operation during a cold start (exercise caution with fuel).
P0213 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota
1980-1995Dedicated cold start injectors are uncommon on modern vehicles. If P0213 appears on an older Toyota, it points directly to the specific cold start injector (often located in the intake manifold) and its associated wiring and relay. These systems are less complex than modern fuel injection but require specific testing.
85% fixed by cold start injector or wiring repair
Nissan
1980-1995Similar to older Toyotas, some Nissan models from this era (e.g., Z-cars, trucks) used a dedicated cold start injector. P0213 on these vehicles indicates a fault in that specific component or its circuit. Check for proper voltage and ground signals to the injector during cold cranking.
85% fixed by cold start injector or wiring repair
General (Modern Vehicles)
1996-2024P0213 is extremely rare on modern vehicles as they typically use the main fuel injectors for cold start enrichment, adjusting pulse width and timing. If this code appears on a modern vehicle, it may indicate a manufacturer-specific interpretation of a fuel system issue or a very unusual engine design. Consult a vehicle-specific repair manual.
Uncommon, but often electrical or ECM related if it appears
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0213 mean?
P0213 indicates a malfunction in the cold start injector circuit. This injector provides extra fuel to help the engine start smoothly in cold weather.
Can I drive with P0213?
Yes, for short trips only. You can drive with P0213, but your engine will likely be hard to start when cold and may run rough until it warms up. Prolonged driving with this issue can lead to increased emissions and poor fuel economy.
Will P0213 clear itself?
No, P0213 will not clear itself. The underlying issue with the cold start injector or its circuit must be repaired for the code to clear. You will need to fix the problem and then clear the code with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0213 myself?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connector to the cold start injector for damage. If the wiring is good, test the injector's electrical resistance. If it's out of spec, replace the cold start injector. You may also need to check the cold start injector's fuse or relay.
How much does it cost to fix P0213?
DIY repair costs for P0213 are typically $50-$200, mainly for a new cold start injector. Professional repair costs range from $200-$600, including parts and 1-3 hours of labor.
P0213 keeps coming back - why?
If P0213 keeps returning, the initial repair may not have addressed the root cause. This often happens if wiring damage was overlooked, a new injector was faulty, or a less common issue like a bad ECM driver is present. Thoroughly re-inspect the circuit and test all components.
Will P0213 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0213 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure, and a malfunctioning cold start injector can lead to higher hydrocarbon emissions.
What's the difference between P0213 and P0211?
P0213 indicates a malfunction in 'Cold Start Injector 2' circuit, while P0211 indicates a malfunction in 'Cold Start Injector 1' circuit. These codes are specific to systems that have multiple cold start injectors, which are very rare. In most cases, if a vehicle has a dedicated cold start injector, it only has one, and the '1' or '2' may be a generic designation.
P0213 on an older Toyota?
Some older Toyota models, particularly those from the 1980s and early 1990s (e.g., certain 4Runner, Pickup, or Celica models), did utilize dedicated cold start injectors. If you have P0213 on such a vehicle, focus diagnostics on that specific injector and its circuit, as it's a critical component for cold weather starting in those systems.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the resistance of the cold start injector and compare it to factory specifications?
Good answer: Yes, the resistance was [X ohms], and the spec is [Y ohms]. It's out of range.
What did you find when testing for power and ground at the cold start injector connector during a cold crank?
Good answer: We found [X volts] on the power wire and a solid ground, indicating the circuit is receiving power but the injector isn't firing.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$600
Save $150-$400 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires basic electrical testing skills and comfort working with fuel system components.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0213 means your engine will continue to struggle with cold starts, potentially leading to excessive cranking, battery drain, and increased wear on the starter motor. The engine will run rich when cold, sending unburned fuel into your exhaust system, which can damage your catalytic converter over time. A $100-$200 cold start injector fix now prevents a $1,200-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, potentially impacting the cold start injector's ability to receive adequate fuel pressure. It's a good preventative maintenance item.
If the cold start injector is difficult to access, checking or replacing the fuel pressure regulator (if applicable to your system) ensures proper fuel pressure delivery to all injectors, preventing future fuel system issues.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scan tool
- Multimeter
- Socket set
- Wrenches
- Screwdrivers
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
- Fuel line disconnect tool (if applicable)
P0213 points to a specific fuel system component that is often straightforward to diagnose and replace. Once fixed, your engine will start reliably in cold weather and run much smoother.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Inspect the cold start injector's wiring and connector for any visible damage or corrosion. Repair any issues found.
Step 2: If wiring is good, use a multimeter to test the cold start injector's resistance. If it's outside the manufacturer's specified range, replace the cold start injector.
Step 3: If the injector tests good, verify power and ground at the injector connector during a cold crank. If signals are missing, trace the circuit back to the fuse, relay, or ECM. Parts you'll likely need: new cold start injector, wiring repair kit, or a cold start injector relay/fuse.