P0205 OBD-II Trouble Code: Injector Circuit Malfunction - Cylinder 5

P0205 code definition

Injector Circuit Malfunction - Cylinder 5

What the P0205 code means

• P0205 is a generic diagnostic trouble code which indicates that the injector circuit for cylinder 5 has out of range voltage or resistance. This is detected by the Engine Control Module (ECM) as it tries to control the circuit.

• P0205 can be seen with misfire, and lean/rich condition codes.

• P0205 is similar to P0200 - P0202, P0204, and P0206-P0212.

What causes the P0205 code?

• Shorted or open wiring harness
• Fuel injector cylinder 5 is faulty
• ECM has failed
• Faulty electrical connection

What are the symptoms of the P0205 code?

• Check Engine Light is triggered by the ECM and observed on the dashboard
• Failsafe mode (precaution to prevent damage to the vehicle) is enacted by the ECM
• Failsafe mode remains in effect until normal operation is detected or the fault is fixed
• Gas mileage is poor
• Fuel system has lean or rich condition
• Engine has a lack of power
• Engine runs roughly, poorly, or dies while running
• Vehicle is hard to start or does not restart once it has died

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0205 code?

• Hooks up a scan tool into the OBD-II port to find any codes that may be stored in the ECM

• Observes freeze frame data associated with each code (codes will either be Pending or Active)

• Clears codes and performs a test drive using information obtained from the freeze frame data to duplicate the conditions that were present when the code was set

• If the P0205 code returns, performs a visual inspection of the injector circuit

• Uses scan tool to monitor voltage and resistance found at cylinder 5 fuel injector; checks for proper voltage at the fuel injector itself

• Uses a noid light to monitor the on/off pulse of the fuel injector

• Performs a test of the ECM

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0205 code

Mistakes can easily be made by anyone if they skip steps or do not complete all steps required. These steps should always be followed to avoid unnecessary repairs, and save time and money.

How serious is the P0205 code?

P0205 can have some symptoms that are cause for concern such as the engine dying while driving. A vehicle with these issues should not be driven and should be diagnosed as soon as possible for safe driving.

What repairs can fix the P0205 code?

• Replacing the cylinder 5 fuel injector
• Replacing the ECM
• Fixing electrical connection issues
• Repairing or replacing any wiring that is open or shorted

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0205 code

Specialized tools such as an advanced scanner are used to diagnose P0205 right the first time. Scan tools must be able to view live data and changes over time for this code, and not just read the code.

Noid lights are useful tool for when an injector seems to test okay with the voltage test, but issues are still present. These are used to check the pulse width - or for how long the fuel injector sprays - which is a measurement of much fuel is delivered.

As vehicles age and get higher in mileage, it is not uncommon to have fuel delivery issues. These are caused by particles and contamination found in gasoline. They can clog fuel filter and injectors, causing faults like P0205. Fuel system cleaners, such as Seafoam, can be used in some cases to help clear blocked fuel injectors before they are replaced unnecessarily.

Need help with a P0205 code?

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