P0272 Code: Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance

For an engine to run properly, each of its cylinders must contribute an even amount of power. When your vehicle detects an issue in cylinder number 4, the P0272 code or other related trouble codes can trigger.

What Does the P0272 Code Mean?

The P0272 code is defined as Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance. This code triggers when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects that cylinder 4 isn’t contributing enough power. The PCM is able to detect this by measuring the crankshaft’s acceleration after the power stroke of each cylinder.

Note: The definition of the P0272 code can be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P0272 Code?

These are the most common issues related to the P0272 code:

• Failed fuel injector
• Dirty or clogged fuel injector
• Internal engine failure
• PCM needs to be updated
• Faulty wiring 

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0272 Code?

Your vehicle might exhibit the following symptoms when the P0272 code is stored:

• Illuminated check engine light
• Reduced engine power
• Slower acceleration
• Rough engine idle
• Reduced fuel economy

How to Diagnose the P0272 Code

Properly diagnosing the P0272 code should be the first step before performing any kind of repair. A proper diagnosis will probably involve inspecting the concerned components, which might need special knowledge, tools, or training as these components are often hidden inside the engine bay.

Keep in mind that vehicle designs and their respective repair procedures vary depending on the manufacturer. Diagnosing the concerned components might require special knowledge and tools.

If you aren’t familiar with vehicle repair, take your car to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis. Want to learn more about the diagnosis process? Take a look at the video below.

How to Fix the P0272 Code

Before attempting to do any repairs, know that there isn’t a magic bullet for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) because different vehicle models are designed differently. If you don’t have much experience troubleshooting DTCs, we recommend consulting a professional mechanic.

You can try to do the job yourself, but you need to make sure that you know the vehicle-specific repair procedures before you get started. Luckily, this information is available online. Chilton repair manuals or a subscription to an online repair database like ALLDATA DIY can give you information on the correct diagnostic and repair procedure to clear diagnostic trouble codes like the P0272 code.

Where to Get a New Fuel Injector for Your Vehicle

Some of the symptoms that show up alongside DTC P0272 include reduced engine power and slower acceleration, which are very frustrating to deal with on the road. If you want to clear DTC P0272, you’ll need to fix whatever might be causing these symptoms. Don’t worry, if you need to replace any problematic parts, CarParts.com has got your back.

The CarParts.com website is customer-focused and easy-to-navigate. We prioritize helping you order online with confidence. The entire process is a breeze, from browsing the site to proceeding through the checkout. If you have questions about our wide assortment of aftermarket parts, feel free to reach out to our helpful and friendly customer service. They’re available around the clock and always happy to assist.

Clear up the issues triggering DTC P0272 to avoid any difficulty while driving. Place your order for a new fuel injector or other replacement parts at CarParts.com today.