P0268
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detects a higher than normal voltage or an open circuit in the fuel injector circuit for cylinder #6.
Code P0268 means the engine computer detects a high voltage or open circuit in the fuel injector for cylinder 6. Common causes: Faulty injector (50%), wiring issues (30%), connector problems (15%). Drivability: Yes, for short trips only. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0268?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Fix immediately.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, significant power loss, loud engine noises, burning smell, or rotten egg smell from the exhaust.
Symptoms of P0268
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine misfire or rough idle
- 3Reduced engine power
- 4Poor fuel economy
- 5Engine hesitation or stumbling
Common Causes of P0268
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The injector itself has an internal electrical fault, such as an open circuit or short, causing the high voltage reading.
50% of P0268 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, chafed, or corroded wiring leading to the cylinder 6 injector creates an open circuit or a short to voltage.
30% of P0268 cases are fixed by repairing this part
A loose, corroded, or damaged electrical connector at the cylinder 6 injector disrupts the circuit.
15% of P0268 cases are fixed by repairing this part
A faulty engine computer incorrectly reports the circuit condition or fails to properly control the injector.
5% of P0268 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the wiring and connector for cylinder 6 fuel injector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or looseness.
- Listen carefully to the cylinder 6 injector area with a mechanic's stethoscope or long screwdriver to hear if it's clicking, indicating it's attempting to fire.
How to Diagnose P0268
- 1Connect an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0268 and check for other related codes (e.g., P0306, P0206).
- 2Visually inspect the wiring harness and electrical connector for cylinder 6 fuel injector for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness.
- 3Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the cylinder 6 fuel injector. Compare the reading to factory specifications and other injectors.
- 4With the engine running, use a noid light to check for injector pulse at the cylinder 6 connector. A flashing light indicates a good pulse.
- 5If the injector resistance is out of spec, replace the cylinder 6 fuel injector.
- 6If the injector tests good but there's no pulse, further diagnose the wiring back to the PCM for continuity and shorts. If wiring is good, consider a PCM issue.
P0268 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024While P0268 is a generic code, Ford F-150s, particularly with V8 engines, can experience injector failures or wiring issues due to engine bay heat and vibration. The diagnostic approach is consistent with other vehicles.
80% fixed by replacing injector or repairing wiring
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Chevrolet Silverado trucks can also encounter P0268 due to similar reasons as other vehicles, including injector electrical faults or wiring degradation. Access to injectors can vary by engine configuration (e.g., V6 vs. V8).
75% fixed by replacing injector or repairing connector
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accords are generally reliable, but P0268 can still occur. Wiring integrity, especially around the injector connectors, should be thoroughly checked, as well as the injector itself. The diagnostic process is universal.
80% fixed by replacing injector or repairing wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0268 mean?
P0268 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected an electrical problem with the fuel injector circuit for cylinder #6. Specifically, it's seeing a higher than expected voltage or an open circuit.
Can I drive with P0268?
Yes, for short trips only. You can drive your vehicle for essential, short distances, but you need to address this code quickly. A misfiring cylinder sends unburned fuel into your exhaust, which can rapidly damage your catalytic converter.
Will P0268 clear itself?
No, P0268 will not clear itself. This code points to a hard electrical fault that requires diagnosis and repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying issue is fixed and the code is cleared, either manually or after several drive cycles once the repair is confirmed.
How do I fix P0268 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connector for cylinder 6. If they look good, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the cylinder 6 fuel injector. If the resistance is out of specification, replace the injector. If the injector tests good, use a noid light to check for injector pulse. If there's no pulse, you'll need to trace the wiring back to the engine computer.
How much does it cost to fix P0268?
A DIY fix for P0268 typically costs $50-$200, mainly for a new fuel injector or wiring repair parts. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $150-$500, which includes parts and 1-2 hours of labor.
P0268 keeps coming back - why?
If P0268 keeps returning, it means the initial repair did not fully address the root cause. Common reasons include a faulty wiring repair, a poor connection at the injector, or an undiagnosed issue with the engine computer itself. Double-check all connections and wiring, and re-test the injector and circuit thoroughly.
Will P0268 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0268 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 directly impacts exhaust emissions.
What's the difference between P0268 and P0206?
P0206 (Cylinder 6 Injector Circuit/Open) specifically indicates an open circuit, meaning no current is flowing. P0268 (Cylinder 6 Injector Circuit High) indicates a high voltage condition, which can be caused by an open circuit or a short to voltage. They both point to an electrical issue with the cylinder 6 injector circuit, but P0268 is a broader diagnostic of a circuit anomaly.
P0268 on Ford F-150?
P0268 on a Ford F-150 indicates the same cylinder 6 injector circuit high condition as on any other vehicle. The diagnostic steps remain consistent: inspect wiring and connector, test injector resistance, and check for injector pulse. While specific injector access might vary by engine, the underlying causes are the same.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the resistance of the cylinder 6 injector and compare it to specifications?
Good answer: Yes, I measured the resistance of injector 6 and compared it to the other injectors and factory specs. It was [out of spec/within spec].
What did you find when inspecting the wiring harness and connector for cylinder 6?
Good answer: I thoroughly inspected the wiring and connector for cylinder 6. I found [no visible damage/corrosion/a frayed wire/a loose connection] and tested for continuity.
Did you confirm injector pulse at cylinder 6 using a noid light?
Good answer: Yes, I used a noid light on the cylinder 6 injector connector. It was [flashing/not flashing], which helped determine if the PCM is sending a signal.
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 hand tools, an OBD-II scanner, and a multimeter for electrical testing. A noid light is also highly recommended for proper diagnosis.
Cost of Waiting
Continued misfires send unburned fuel directly into your catalytic converter. This causes the converter to overheat and melt internally, leading to a complete failure. A $50-$150 injector or wiring repair now prevents a $1,200-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
If you're replacing the injector, new O-rings ensure a proper seal and prevent fuel leaks or vacuum leaks, which are critical for engine performance.
A prolonged misfire can foul the spark plug in cylinder 6. Replacing it ensures optimal combustion once the injector issue is resolved, and it's easy to access while working on the injector.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scanner
- Multimeter
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Noid light set
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
P0268 is a common fuel system code. Most repairs involve replacing a single fuel injector or fixing a wiring issue, which is a straightforward fix that will get your engine running smoothly again.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Inspect the cylinder 6 fuel injector's wiring and connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair as needed.
Step 2: If the wiring looks good, use a multimeter to test the electrical resistance of the cylinder 6 fuel injector. Compare this reading to the manufacturer's specifications and to other injectors on the engine.
Step 3: If the injector's resistance is out of spec, replace the cylinder 6 fuel injector. If the resistance is good, use a noid light to confirm the engine computer is sending a pulse to the injector. If there's no pulse, further diagnose the wiring back to the PCM or consider a faulty PCM.