OBD-II fault code

P21DC: Cylinder 1 Injector B Circuit High

What it means

The control module detected a high electrical signal in the cylinder 1 injector B circuit. This indicates an electrical circuit condition; it does not by itself establish injector flow or cylinder fuel balance.

At a glance

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

How it works

The engine control module monitors the electrical signal on the cylinder 1 injector B circuit. It sets P21DC when that signal is higher than expected, which can result from a short to voltage or a connector fault; the code concerns the circuit signal and does not confirm injector delivery.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Short to voltage in wiring
  2. Damaged or corroded connector
  3. Injector electrical fault

Symptoms

  • Check-engine light on
  • Rough running or misfire
  • Reduced engine power
  • Increased fuel consumption

How to diagnose it

  1. Capture freeze-frame data and check for cylinder 1 misfire or injector faults to identify when the high signal is present.
  2. Locate cylinder 1 injector B using service information and inspect the connector and harness for damaged insulation, corrosion, loose terminals, or contact with a powered wire.
  3. With ignition off, inspect the cylinder 1 injector B connector for bent or displaced terminals and check the nearby loom for signs of shorting.
  4. Using the manufacturer's test procedure, measure the cylinder 1 injector B circuit and check for a short to voltage or other cause of an above-expected signal.
  5. If the wiring and connector are intact, test injector B on cylinder 1 electrically for an internal fault.

Common fixes

  • Clean and secure the cylinder 1 injector B connector or repair damaged terminals.
  • Repair wiring that is shorted to voltage in the cylinder 1 injector B circuit.
  • Replace cylinder 1 injector B if it fails the manufacturer's electrical test.

Can I keep driving?

With a steady light and smooth running, keep driving limited and gentle while arranging diagnosis; the cylinder 1 circuit fault can affect fueling and emissions. Stop if the light flashes, the engine misfires severely, or power falls sharply.

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.

Codes for the same component