What it means
The drive circuit for the cold-start auxiliary fuel injector or the cold-start ECU output is open. Some diesels use an extra cold-start injector to inject fuel into the intake manifold during very cold starts.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The cold-start fuel injection circuit powers an auxiliary injector or related control output used to help some engines start in very cold conditions. The module monitors the drive circuit for continuity, and this code sets when it detects an open electrical path.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Injector winding open
- Pin pushed back out of connector body
- Cracked solder joint inside the module or sensor
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Hard starting when the engine is cold
- Rough running just after a cold start
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and note the engine temperature and starting conditions when the code set, since the circuit may be used only during cold starts.
- Inspect the cold-start injector connector for a pushed-back pin, corrosion, moisture, or a loose fit.
- Trace the injector wiring and module connections for breaks, damaged insulation, or a poor splice.
- With the circuit safely isolated, check the injector winding and harness continuity using the manufacturer's procedure to locate the open.
- If the wiring and injector test correctly, inspect the relevant module connector and output for an open connection or internal fault.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or repair a pushed-back or loose terminal at the cold-start injector.
- Repair a broken wire or poor connection in the cold-start injector circuit.
- Replace a cold-start injector with an open winding.
- Repair a failed module connection or output circuit if testing confirms the fault.
Can I keep driving?
The vehicle may be difficult to start or run roughly when cold, though it may operate normally once warm. Avoid repeated extended cranking, which can drain the battery and overheat the starter.
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.