P0264
Fix within a few daysCylinder 2 Fuel Injector Circuit Low
Code P0264 means the engine computer detected an electrical problem with the Cylinder 2 fuel injector. Common causes: Bad fuel injector (65%), wiring issues (30%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0264?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud noises, burning smell, significant power loss
Symptoms of P0264
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine runs rough or idles poorly
- 3Engine misfires, especially at idle
- 4Reduced engine power
- 5Poor fuel economy
- 6Engine may hesitate or stumble
Common Causes of P0264
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The injector itself has an internal electrical fault, causing the circuit resistance to be too low or too high, or a short to ground.
65% of P0264 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A damaged, corroded, or shorted wire in the harness leading to the cylinder 2 fuel injector, including the connector itself.
30% of P0264 cases are fixed by repairing or replacing this part
A rare internal fault within the engine computer that controls the injector circuit.
5% of P0264 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the cylinder 2 fuel injector wiring harness and connector for any obvious damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- Ensure the connector is fully seated on the injector.
How to Diagnose P0264
- 1Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector for cylinder 2 fuel injector for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2With the engine off, disconnect the cylinder 2 fuel injector and use a multimeter to check the resistance across the injector terminals. Compare to specifications (usually 10-18 ohms).
- 3With the engine running, use a noid light or multimeter to check for proper voltage and pulse signal at the cylinder 2 fuel injector connector.
- 4If resistance is out of spec, or no pulse, swap the cylinder 2 injector with an injector from another cylinder (e.g., cylinder 1 or 3) and see if the code moves. If it moves, the injector is bad.
- 5If the injector tests good and the code does not move after swapping, inspect the wiring harness for continuity and shorts back to the ECM/PCM.
P0264 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024P0264 on these trucks is frequently traced to a failed fuel injector. The connectors can also become brittle over time, leading to intermittent contact.
80% fixed by replacing injector or repairing wiring
Honda Accord
2003-2024For Honda Accords, P0264 is often a direct result of a faulty fuel injector. Inspecting the wiring for rodent damage is also a good idea, as this is a known issue in some regions.
75% fixed by replacing injector
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Silverado owners reporting P0264 often find the issue to be a failed fuel injector. Corroded or damaged wiring at the injector connector is also a common culprit, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
78% fixed by replacing injector or repairing wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0264 mean?
P0264 indicates the engine computer has detected a low voltage condition or an electrical fault in the circuit for the fuel injector on cylinder 2.
Can I drive with P0264?
Yes, for short trips only. A misfiring cylinder causes significant damage to your catalytic converter if ignored, and you will experience reduced power and fuel economy.
Will P0264 clear itself?
No, P0264 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical fault or component failure must be repaired for the code to go away.
How do I fix P0264 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connector for cylinder 2. Then, test the resistance of the cylinder 2 fuel injector with a multimeter. If it's out of spec, replace the injector. If the injector tests good, check the wiring harness for shorts or opens.
How much does it cost to fix P0264?
DIY repair costs $50-$200 for a new fuel injector and basic tools. Professional repair typically costs $150-$500, including diagnosis and labor.
P0264 keeps coming back - why?
If P0264 keeps returning, it indicates the root cause was not fully addressed. This often means the wiring harness has an intermittent short or open, or the replacement injector is faulty, or the ECM/PCM is the rare underlying issue.
Will P0264 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0264 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions.
What's the difference between P0264 and P0302?
P0264 specifically points to an electrical circuit issue with the cylinder 2 fuel injector. P0302 indicates a general misfire on cylinder 2, which could be caused by the injector, spark plug, ignition coil, or compression issues. P0264 is more specific to the injector's electrical function.
P0264 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, P0264 is most commonly caused by a faulty fuel injector. Wiring issues, especially around the injector connector, are also common due to engine heat and vibration.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the cylinder 2 fuel injector, and what were the readings?
Good answer: Yes, the injector resistance was [X ohms], which is outside the specified range of [Y-Z ohms]. We confirmed it's faulty.
Did you check the voltage and pulse signal at the injector connector?
Good answer: Yes, we checked the signal. We had good voltage, but the pulse signal was weak/intermittent, indicating an issue with the injector or the wiring to it.
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 for testing and potentially a fuel injector puller, but is manageable for someone with basic mechanical skills.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0264 leads to a continuous misfire on cylinder 2. This sends unburned fuel into your exhaust system, which rapidly overheats and destroys your catalytic converter. A $100-$200 fuel injector replacement prevents a $800-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
These seals are critical for preventing fuel leaks and ensuring proper injector function. They are removed and replaced during injector service.
If the injector was failing, the spark plug on that cylinder may be fouled. Replacing it ensures optimal combustion after the injector repair.
Tools You'll Need
- Multimeter
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Fuel injector puller (if needed for your vehicle)
- Noid light (optional, for testing pulse)
P0264 is a common fuel system code. Most repairs involve replacing a single fuel injector or repairing a wire, which is a straightforward fix that will restore your engine's smooth operation.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the wiring and connector for the cylinder 2 fuel injector. Look for any cuts, fraying, or corrosion. Ensure the connector is securely attached.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal issues, disconnect the injector and use a multimeter to test its resistance. Compare the reading to your vehicle's specifications. If it's outside the range, replace the cylinder 2 fuel injector.
Step 3: If the injector resistance is good, test for voltage and a pulse signal at the injector connector using a multimeter or noid light. If there's no signal, you'll need to trace the wiring back to the ECM/PCM for shorts or opens.