What is the P0278 fault number? What is the Cylinder 6 Additive/Balance(Balance) Fault Failure? How can you fix the P0278 fault? What are the symptoms and causes for the P0278 fault code
What is the P0278 Fault code? What does it signify?
If the powertrain control module PCM detects that the cylinder6 fuel injector is not performing as expected and is destabilizing the engine, a code P0278 will be set. This code is set when the crankshaft sensor finds that cylinder 6 does not contribute to engine power, and the crankshaft does not accelerate as expected.
This code means that cylinder 6 is experiencing a fuel problem when it ignites. The PCM monitors the crankshaft speed change as the cylinders fire. Fault code P0278 is triggered if the PCM detects that cylinder 6 provides less power than other cylinders.
This test is done by the PCM to check if the fuel injector works properly. An auto mechanic could perform a similar test. When the engine is running, the mechanic will unplug one spark plug and note the difference in the cylinder. A difference of 10% between all cylinders is considered to be a compression leak. A cylinder with an increase in RPM greater than 10% should be repaired. These tests compare crankshaft speed. This problem must be rectified immediately to prevent any further damage.
What causes the P0278 Fault code?
To ensure that a vehicle’s engine works properly, it must be able to fire its cylinders in the right sequence. This is how your engine generates the power it needs to ignite your fuel, and get the car moving. This is where the engine’s power comes from.
Below are some reasons to set fault code P0278:
- – The Cylinder 6 injector doesn’t inject enough fuel or none at all.
- – Wiring and connector problems to the cylinder 6 fuel injector could lead to damage, short circuits or open faults.
- Leaky fuel injector
- Low fuel pressure, low fuel quantity or blocked fuel filter due to faulty fuel pump or clogged fuel filter
- Compression problems in cylinder 6 due to rocker, lifter cam, circlip, or cylinder head gasket failures
What are the symptoms of P0278 Malfunction Code?
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has the code P0278:
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- – Fluctuations of idle speed
- – Engine hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- – Increased fuel use
- Engine misfire on cylinder 6.
- – Sometimes the engine might stall.
- – The exhaust emits black smoke
How to Fix the P0278 Fault Code
It is a common error to repair this fault code by replacing the injector without first checking for damage to its circuit. The code must first be deleted. Next, it must be verified that the code will not return. Before you replace the injector, make sure to check the fuel pressure and volume.
The following repairs may be able to resolve the P0278 fault codes:
- – Repair or replacement wiring and connectors in the 6 cylinder fuel injector
- – Cleaning the fuel injection
- Repairing a damaged fuel injector
- Repair of leaky injector gaskets
- – Removing the clogged fuel tank filter
- – Replacing a faulty fuel pump
- – Repair of malfunctions causing low compression in cylinder #6
- Troubleshooting problems with your PCM
How Serious Is the P0278 Fault Coding?
This fault code should always be taken seriously as it can cause your engine to run poorly. This fault code can cause your vehicle to misfire, which could significantly decrease its performance. To prevent further damage, it is important that your vehicle be diagnosed immediately.
