What it means
The PCM detected an open or electrical fault in the cylinder 1 injector A circuit. The code does not establish that the ECU disables the injector or that a misfire code will also set.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The PCM switches the cylinder 1 injector's electrical circuit to control fuel delivery. P0201 means it detected an open or other electrical fault in the cylinder 1 injector A circuit; it does not by itself prove the injector is disabled or that a misfire code will appear.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Injector winding failed open
- Wiring or connector fault
- ECU injector driver damaged
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Rough running or engine misfire
- Reduced engine power
- Hard starting or stalling
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and scan for cylinder 1 misfire or related circuit codes to learn when the fault occurred and whether it is accompanied by other symptoms.
- Locate the cylinder 1 injector using the vehicle's cylinder identification information, then inspect its connector and wiring for looseness, corrosion, rubbing, or heat damage.
- Check the injector connector fit and compare the cylinder 1 injector's electrical resistance with the manufacturer's specification.
- Test the cylinder 1 injector supply and PCM control wire for continuity, shorts, and poor connections using the vehicle wiring diagram.
- If the injector and circuit pass their checks, have the PCM's cylinder 1 injector driver tested.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or clean the cylinder 1 injector connector.
- Repair damaged wiring in the cylinder 1 injector circuit.
- Replace the cylinder 1 injector if its winding is confirmed open or out of specification.
- Repair or replace the PCM only if its cylinder 1 injector driver is confirmed faulty.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine runs rough, misfires, stalls, or has reduced power, avoid driving because the fault can worsen drivability and emissions. If it runs normally, keep trips short and have the cylinder 1 circuit checked soon.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.