OBD-II fault code

P029D: Cylinder 1 - Injector Leaking

What it means

The control module detected fuel leakage from the cylinder 1 injector. The code identifies leakage but does not establish whether the nozzle, seal, or another part is responsible.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test

How it works

The control module monitors cylinder 1 injector behavior and engine response for evidence that fuel continues to leak into that cylinder. P029D sets when it detects leakage, but does not by itself distinguish a leaking nozzle or valve from a seal, seat, pressure, or control problem.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Injector nozzle or internal valve leaking
  2. Injector seal or seat leaking
  3. Injector stuck open or control fault
  4. Excess fuel pressure

Symptoms

  • Check-engine light
  • Rough idle or engine vibration
  • Misfire or hesitation
  • Fuel odor or increased fuel consumption

How to diagnose it

  1. Review freeze-frame data and cylinder 1 misfire or fuel-trim information, and check for related fuel-pressure codes.
  2. With the engine off, inspect the cylinder 1 injector area and connector for fuel, damage, or a loose connection; follow fuel-system safety precautions.
  3. Check whether cylinder 1 shows signs of excess fuel after shutdown using the manufacturer’s specified leak test.
  4. Measure fuel pressure and injector control behavior against the manufacturer’s procedure to separate excessive pressure from an injector fault.
  5. If the injector is leaking externally or internally, inspect its seal and seat as well as the nozzle and valve before selecting a repair.

Common fixes

  • Repair a damaged cylinder 1 injector connector or control wiring if testing identifies it.
  • Correct fuel pressure if it exceeds the manufacturer’s specification.
  • Replace a failed cylinder 1 injector seal or repair the seat if leakage is confirmed there.
  • Replace the cylinder 1 injector if its nozzle or internal valve is confirmed to leak.

Can I keep driving?

If there is a strong fuel smell, visible leakage, or severe misfiring, stop driving because leaked fuel can create a fire hazard and damage the catalytic converter. With milder symptoms, avoid extended trips and have the cylinder 1 leak checked promptly.

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.

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