HomeTrouble CodesP0208

P0208 — Cylinder 8 Injector Circuit

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P0208 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormal voltage or resistance in the circuit that controls the fuel injector for cylinder 8. This code is set when the injector circuit is open, shorted, or exhibits higher‑than‑expected resistance. If left unresolved, it can cause an engine misfire, poor drivability, and increased emissions.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty fuel injector (cylinder 8)

The injector’s coil may be open or shorted, causing the circuit to fall out of specification.

2. Wiring or harness damage

Broken, chafed, or pinched wires in the injector circuit can create an open or high‑resistance condition.

3. Corroded or loose electrical connector

Oxidation, bent pins, or a loose connection can intermittent or improper voltage delivery to the injector.

4. Blown fuse or defective relay for injector circuit

A loss of power due to a failed fuse or relay will prevent the injector from operating.

5. PCM (ECM) internal fault

Rarely, the engine control module may fail to correctly drive the injector circuit; this is usually diagnosed after other components are verified.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve and record freeze‑frame data to confirm P0208 is present and note engine conditions.
  2. Visually inspect the cylinder‑8 injector wiring harness and connector for damage, corrosion, or looseness.
  3. Measure the injector’s resistance with a multimeter and compare it to the manufacturer’s specification.
  4. Check for proper voltage and ground at the injector connector while the engine is running or using an oscilloscope to view the driver waveform.
  5. Verify the condition of the injector circuit fuse and relay; replace any that are open or show signs of failure.
  6. If wiring and injector tests pass, test the PCM’s injector driver output; consider reflashing or replacing the PCM as a last resort.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Is it safe to drive with a P0208 code?

The vehicle may run roughly or misfire, which can lead to further damage if driven extensively. It is advisable to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.

Will a P0208 cause engine damage?

Prolonged misfiring can overheat the catalytic converter or cause other engine‑related problems; fixing the code early reduces the risk of additional damage.

Is the PCM usually at fault for P0208?

No. In the vast majority of cases the problem lies in the injector itself, its wiring, or connectors. PCM replacement is rarely needed and is typically considered only after all other possibilities are eliminated.

What are common repairs for this code?

Typical repairs include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning or replacing the corroded injector connector, swapping out a faulty injector, and renewing any blown fuses or relays in the circuit.