What it means
The cylinder 2 fuel heater has a performance fault: it is not operating as expected.
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 whether the fuel heater assigned to cylinder 2 performs as commanded. This code sets when the heater's response does not meet the expected performance, even if the circuit is not simply open, high, or low.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Cylinder 2 fuel heater element worn or damaged
- Open or high resistance in heater wiring or connector
- Fault in the heater control module
- Poor electrical connection or ground
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Fuel or powertrain warning light, if equipped
- Hard starting or rough running in cold weather
- Reduced engine performance in cold conditions
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and review live data for the cylinder 2 heater command and response, noting whether the fault occurred during cold operation.
- Inspect the cylinder 2 heater element, wiring, connector, and ground for damage, corrosion, looseness, or heat-related wear.
- Check the heater circuit for continuity and excessive resistance using the manufacturer's procedure and specifications.
- Compare the cylinder 2 heater's commanded operation with its measured response to determine whether the element or its connections are underperforming.
- If the element and wiring pass, test the heater control module and ground path according to the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Clean, secure, or repair a poor cylinder 2 heater connection or ground.
- Repair high-resistance or damaged wiring in the cylinder 2 heater circuit.
- Replace the worn or damaged cylinder 2 fuel heater element.
- Repair or replace the control module if its fault is confirmed by testing.
Can I keep driving?
The vehicle may run normally in mild conditions, but cold starting or engine performance can deteriorate when the cylinder 2 heater is needed. Limit use in severe cold until the heater's operation is restored.
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.