P0281 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 7 Contribution/Balance Fault

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

EXCELLENT RATING ON

Cost of diagnosing the P0281 code

P0281 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Cylinder 7 Contribution/Balance Fault". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE P0281 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

P0281 code definition

The generic trouble code P0281 indicates cylinder 7 contribution/balance fault.

What the P0281 code means

The P0281 code means that cylinder 7 in the firing order of your cylinders is having an issue related to the fuel. Unless the cylinders are all working properly and are within 5% of one another, a code will likely be stored in the vehicle’s computer.

What causes the P0281 code?

The following are the common causes of the P0281 code:

  • Dirty fuel injector.
  • Clogged fuel injector.
  • Failed fuel injector.
  • Issues with the electrical connector located on the fuel injector.

What are the symptoms of the P0281 code?

If you have the P0281 code, it will likely be stored on your vehicle’s computer. You will also notice that the Check Engine light will be on. When you drive the vehicle, you will notice that the engine does not have as much power, and you will probably have trouble when you are trying to accelerate. You will also find that the engine runs rough when you are idling. The vehicle’s fuel economy may diminish as well.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0281 code?

Mechanics can use an OBD-II scanner, which they will attach to the vehicle’s computer. This will allow them to access data about the vehicle, which they will use to make the diagnosis easier. They will then reset the codes and test the vehicle. They want to see if the code actually comes back or not. If it doesn’t, it means it was triggered in error. If it does come back, then they know that they have to continue with the diagnosis and find the actual problem. The mechanic might also test the engine while it is running by pulling one spark plug at a time to look for the RPM drops for each cylinder.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0281 code

One of the misdiagnoses that some mechanics might make is jumping to the conclusion that the reason for the code is because the powertrain control module has a problem. While this could happen, it is exceedingly rare. They need to continue with their diagnosis and look for the actual cause of the problem.

How serious is the P0281 code?

Drivers might still be able to drive their vehicle when they have the P0281 code stored, but it’s not a good idea. The vehicle runs rough, and it has trouble when it comes to accelerating. It has the potential to be dangerous, and it’s something that you will want to have fixed as soon as possible. Always make sure to bring your vehicle to a mechanic who can diagnose the problem and then complete the needed repairs.

What repairs can fix the P0281 code?

The following are some of the repairs that mechanics can make to fix the P0281 code.

  • Once they’ve run the OBD-II scanner and made sure that the code is legitimate, they will want to inspect the electrical connections to check for corrosion and other damage. * Repair or replace elements as needed.
  • Flush the fuel injector.
  • Replace the fuel injector.
  • The powertrain control module is rarely at fault, but if it is, it might need to be replaced.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0281 code

Dealing with auto repairs always feels like a hassle, and many drivers put off getting the needed repairs for as long as possible. This can be a bad idea though. Even though you might still be able to drive your vehicle when it has stored the P0281 code, it can cause problems. The vehicle will not run properly, and the fuel economy will suffer. Letting a vehicle go too long without repairs could cause other problems to arise. It is in your best interest to speak with a qualified mechanic who can perform the diagnosis and then take care of your repairs.

Need help with a P0281 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

Check Engine Light
trouble codes
p0281

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the P0281 code.

SCHEDULE P0281 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


More related articles

P0347 OBD-II Trouble Code: Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Low Input (Bank 2)
P0347 P0347 code definition The P0347 Trouble Code refers to an issue with the camshaft position sensor A where the circuit input in bank 2 is too low. What the P0347 code means This is a generic code regarding the...
P0579 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cruise Control Multi-Function Input A Circuit Range/Performance
P0579 P0579 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cruise Control Multi-Function Input A Circuit Range/Performance P0579 code definition The P0579 code signifies that the car’s computer has found a malfunction in the cruise control multi-function input A circuit. What the P0579 code means...
P0801 OBD-II Trouble Code: Reverse Inhibit Control Circuit Malfunction
P0801 means an issue with the reverse inhibitor switch making the vehicle unable to be placed in reverse or capable of doing so while driving forward.

Related questions

Can a defective catalytic converter cause clutch failure?
To answer your question, a catalytic converter cannot cause clutch failure. You have a series of independent failures, which is not very common for vehicles with less than 100,000 miles. I would take your 2013 Chevrolet Cruze back to the...
What sensor affects bank 2?
Code PO302 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0302-obd-ii-trouble-code-cylinder-2-misfire-detected-by-jamahl-walker) refers to a misfire. P1153 refers to the O2 sensor not switching often enough. This sensor monitors how often a lean to rich condition or rich to lean condition is present. When there is inconsistency in this,...
Looking for info about most common OBD2 Codes
There are two (at least) quite distinct issues in regard to your general request: The first is, once a check engine light illuminates, what are the most "frequent" codes that are stored and thence downloaded, that is what does THAT...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com