P0280 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 7 Injector Circuit High

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Cost of diagnosing the P0280 code

P0280 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Cylinder 7 Injector Circuit High". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

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P0280 code definition

P0280 is the universal OBD-II code for Cylinder 7 Injector Circuit High.

What the P0280 code means

This code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a problem in the cylinder 7 injector circuit. This typically means that either the voltage or resistance are out of range of the expected specifications, resulting in poor or nonexistent fuel injector performance.

What causes the P0280 code?

A vehicle will set an injector circuit code when one or more of the following conditions are present:

  • A dirty or plugged fuel injector
  • A bad fuel injector
  • An electrical fault in the wiring, connectors, or harness from the ECM to the injector
  • A malfunction in the fuel injector driver in the ECM
  • Loose injector connections
  • A faulty ECM (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P0280 code?

Aside from the stored code, symptoms of this DTC may include:

  • An illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL)
  • Engine idling rough
  • Decreased fuel efficiency
  • Poor acceleration/decrease in engine power
  • Engine misfires

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0280 code?

Diagnostic steps your technician may perform for this code are as follows:

  • Scan the vehicle’s computer for other stored codes, capture freeze frame data, and address the codes in the order in which they occurred

  • Clear all fault codes and road test the vehicle to rule out an intermittent condition

  • Visually inspect the injector electrical connector, checking for bent or otherwise damaged pins

  • With the engine running, hold a screwdriver handle to his or her ear with the tip on the injector to check for a slight clicking sound (indicating the injector is working)

  • Disconnect the injector and use an ohmmeter to test the resistance between the terminals to see if it is between .5 and 2 ohms

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0280 code

The ECM is sometimes replaced in error, when the problem actually lies in the electrical components of the injector, or the injector is dirty or clogged. True ECM failure is rare. It’s a good idea to begin by inspecting all of the involved wiring and connections to make sure there’s not a simple fix.

How serious is the P0280 code?

Fuel injector codes should be addressed as soon as possible. A malfunction in an injector can cause a ripple effect which will eventually compromise the spark plug, the oxygen sensor, and even the catalytic converter. A cylinder 7 injector circuit fault will trigger the vehicle’s computer to think that it needs to initiate a richer fuel mixture from the other injectors. This causes a domino effect that can damage multiple vehicle components.

What repairs can fix the P0280 code?

Fixing a fuel injector circuit malfunction may include:

Most fuel injector issues are the result of wiring or connections which need repairing, a dirty or plugged injector, or a bad injector that needs replacing.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0280 code

Fuel injector trouble codes become more and more likely the older a vehicle gets, and the higher the mileage it has. Keeping your fuel system clean can help delay fuel injector problems from developing.

There are several specialty auto repair tools which make diagnosing and repairing injector codes much easier. Due to the potential for damage to other vehicle components, it’s a good idea to let a professional assess and repair code P0280.

If you decide to attack a cylinder 7 injector malfunction yourself, you might consider acquiring a noid light set, a professional-grade scan tool, and a direct injection cleaning kit. If you run into trouble, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for assistance in order to avoid making an incorrect repair which could trigger further damage.

Need help with a P0280 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

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