What Does P02BC Mean?
The ECM has detected that the fuel injector on cylinder 9 is restricted, meaning fuel delivery is reduced below the commanded amount due to partial blockage or diminished flow. This code applies to engines with 9+ cylinders. The ECM detects this through persistent positive individual fuel trim corrections. The driver may experience cylinder 9 misfires, hesitation, rough running, and reduced power.
Common Causes
40%
Clogged injector filter basket or nozzle tip from fuel contaminants, varnish, or carbon deposits
25%
Internal injector deposits from poor-quality fuel partially blocking the spray orifices
15%
Restricted fuel supply line or rail crossover reducing flow to the rail feeding cylinder 9
12%
Clogged in-line fuel filter or pump strainer reducing overall system pressure and flow
8%
Corroded or damaged injector electrical connector causing intermittent operation mimicking restriction
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check live data for cylinder 9 individual fuel trim — a high positive trim value confirms the ECM is compensating for reduced fuel delivery.
2
Perform an injector balance test by disabling each injector and monitoring rpm drops — cylinder 9 should produce a similar drop as others.
3
Remove fuel injectors for professional flow testing and ultrasonic cleaning — measure actual flow rate versus specification. Variation should be less than 5%.
4
On multi-rail systems, verify fuel pressure independently at each rail to ensure the rail feeding cylinder 9 is not restricted.
5
Inspect the fuel rail for debris or contamination at injector seats and fuel passages.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected that the fuel injector on cylinder 9 is restricted, meaning fuel delivery is reduced below the commanded amount due to partial blockage or diminished flow. This code applies to engines with 9+ cylinders. The ECM detects this through persistent positive individual fuel trim corre...
The most common cause of P02BC (Cylinder 9 - Injector Restricted) is: Clogged injector filter basket or nozzle tip from fuel contaminants, varnish, or carbon deposits
Typical repair costs for P02BC range from $150 to $500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Generally safe for short-distance driving. The lean condition on cylinder 9 produces elevated combustion temperatures risking catalytic converter damage and lean detonation over extended periods.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P02BC to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Fuel System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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