P0266 fault code: what it means

P0266: Cylinder 2 contribution/balance fault: cylinder 2 is weaker or stronger than the rest. Usually a diesel injector.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Costly if missed

Usual causes, most likely first

1. worn or leaking injector
2. low compression in that cylinder
3. injector wiring fault

P0266 by make

What the repair usually costs

• Compression and leak-down test with diagnosisNZ$140–NZ$420 · A$150–A$450
• Engine replacement, reconditioned engine (4-cylinder)NZ$5,570–NZ$10,560 · A$5,070–A$9,720

Not sure what P0266 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.