P0208 OBD2 Code Guide
P0208 is a powertrain diagnostic trouble code. Use this hub to understand the plain meaning, the first checks to run, and which vehicle-specific guides may be more useful before replacing parts.
Injector Circuit Malfunction - Cylinder 8
Code P0208 signifies a detected electrical fault within the fuel injector circuit specifically for cylinder #8. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the voltage and resistance of the injector driver circuit. When the PCM detects an unexpected open circuit, short circuit, or out-of-range resistance in the injector's coil or wiring, it sets this diagnostic trouble code. This typically results in a misfire on cylinder 8, leading to rough idling, reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potentially a flashing Check Engine Light.
Code verification standard
P0208 is published with SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 code structure plus OBD2 P0208 diagnostic context.
First checks
- - Read all stored and pending codes before clearing anything.
- - Save freeze-frame data so you know speed, load and temperature when the code set.
- - Inspect wiring, connectors, fuses, hoses and obvious leaks tied to the named system.
- - Compare live data against realistic values before buying sensors or modules.
- - Clear the code only after repair and complete a drive cycle to confirm it does not return.
P0208 diagnostic path
- 1Perform a thorough visual inspection of the fuel injector #8, its electrical connector, and the wiring harness leading to it. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, corrosion, or loose connections. Ensure the connector is fully seated and free of bent pins or contamination.
- 2With the ignition OFF, disconnect the electrical connector from injector #8. Using a digital multimeter (DMM), measure the resistance across the injector's two terminals. Compare this reading to the manufacturer's specifications (typically 10-18 ohms for most multi-port injectors). An open circuit (infinite resistance) or a short circuit (near zero resistance) indicates an internal fault within the injector.
- 3Reconnect the injector and turn the ignition ON (engine OFF). Using a DMM, check for battery voltage at one of the injector #8 connector terminals (this is the constant power supply). Then, connect a test light or DMM to the other terminal (the control side from the PCM) and crank the engine. The test light should flash, or the DMM should show fluctuating voltage, indicating the PCM is attempting to pulse the injector. No constant voltage or no pulse indicates a wiring issue or a faulty PCM driver.
- 4If the injector resistance is good and voltage/ground checks are inconclusive, disconnect the PCM connector and the injector #8 connector. Perform a continuity test on both wires leading to injector #8 from the PCM. Check for continuity to ground and to battery voltage on both wires to rule out shorts. Repair any open circuits or shorts found.
- 5If all electrical tests on the wiring and PCM driver appear normal, and the injector resistance is within specification, consider performing a swap test. If possible, swap injector #8 with a known good injector from another cylinder (e.g., cylinder 7 or 9). Clear the code and retest. If the code moves to the new cylinder, the original injector #8 is faulty. If P0208 persists, the issue is likely deeper in the wiring or PCM.
Verify before repair
- - Replace the faulty fuel injector for cylinder #8.
- - Repair or replace any damaged, corroded, or shorted wiring in the injector #8 circuit.
- - Clean or replace corroded or loose electrical connectors at the injector or harness.
- - Replace the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) if the internal injector driver for cylinder #8 is confirmed to be defective (this is a rare and last resort fix).
Vehicle-specific pages to check next
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