What it means
The control module detected that cylinder 6 is not contributing to engine power as expected. Possible causes include an injector, compression, or other cylinder-specific problem.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The control module compares cylinder 6's contribution with the other cylinders, using changes in engine speed or other engine data to identify an imbalance. This code sets when cylinder 6 contributes less than expected; it does not identify whether the cause is fuel, ignition, compression, or wiring.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Cylinder 6 injector restricted or faulty
- Cylinder 6 ignition coil or spark plug fault
- Low compression on cylinder 6
- Wiring or connector fault
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Rough idle or engine vibration
- Reduced power
- Engine misfire
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check live misfire or cylinder-balance information to see when cylinder 6 falls behind.
- Inspect cylinder 6's injector, ignition coil, spark plug, connectors, and wiring for damage, looseness, or contamination.
- If the engine uses interchangeable coils or plugs, compare cylinder 6 with another cylinder and see whether the fault follows the moved part.
- Check the cylinder 6 injector's electrical control and operation using the vehicle's wiring information and manufacturer-approved tests.
- If fuel and ignition checks do not explain the imbalance, compare cylinder 6 compression and perform further mechanical checks as indicated.
Common fixes
- Repair a loose or damaged cylinder 6 connector or wiring.
- Replace a faulty cylinder 6 spark plug or ignition coil.
- Clean or replace a restricted or faulty cylinder 6 injector.
- Repair the cause of low compression on cylinder 6.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid hard acceleration and long trips while the engine misfires or vibrates; unburned fuel can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. Stop driving if the engine runs very roughly or loses substantial power.
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.