P050D Code: Cold Start Rough Idle

Reviewed by

William Guzenski, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Contact Center Manager and Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on August 16th, 2024

Reading Time: 3 minutes
Summary
  • The P050D stands for “Cold Start Rough Idle.”
  • Some issues that could trigger the code include vacuum/intake leaks, a malfunctioning fuel injector, and insufficient fuel pressure.
  • Symptoms to look out for include a rich/lean exhaust, cold start drivability problems, and other drivability issues.

On-board diagnostic trouble codes are designed to help you or your mechanic diagnose issues with your vehicle faster. But before fixing the trouble codes retrieved by your scan tool, it’s crucial that you first understand what they mean.

Code P050D is a generic trouble code related to a rough engine idle during cold start. Read on to learn more about this error code, and what it can mean for your vehicle.

What Does the P050D Code Mean?

Code P050D is a generic trouble code related to a rough engine idle during cold start.

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P050D stands for “Cold Start Rough Idle.”

The PCM monitors your engine’s RPM using signals from the (CKP) crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position (CMP). It’s crucial to regulate intake airflow during closed throttle conditions. When idling, the PCM regulates air intake using the idle air control (IAC) valve. Unregulated air intake can cause rough engine idle at cold start and trigger the P050D error code.

It’s important to note that if your scan tool also retrieved lean exhaust codes, engine coolant temperature (ECT) codes, or IAC-related codes, then you should fix those issues first before the P050D trouble code. Engine misfire problems should also be resolved first because they can contribute to rough idle conditions during cold starts.

Engine misfire problems should also be resolved first because they can contribute to rough idle conditions during cold starts.

Note: The definition of code P050D might 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 P050D Code?

What Are the Common Symptoms of the P050D Code?

  • Rich/lean exhaust
  • Cold start drivability problems
  • Other drivability issues
  • Hissing or sucking noise from the engine

How to Diagnose the P050D Code

The P050D is a generic code that can be logged across several makes and models. However, this does not mean there’s a universal diagnostic procedure that will work for all vehicles. The steps for troubleshooting this code will vary depending on your vehicle’s specifications.

Check out this video to get an idea of what the diagnostic process for this code might involve:

How to Fix the P050D Code

The symptoms of code P050D can be similar across several vehicles. However, that does not mean that they share repair steps as well. All vehicles are different, so make sure to refer to a factory repair guide that is specific to your car. For instance, repair steps for a P050D code in a Chevrolet Silverado might not work for a P050D code in a Chrysler 300.

If you’d like to troubleshoot this code on your own, make sure to consult a vehicle-specific repair manual or an online repair database. If you’re not an experienced auto DIYer, we strongly suggest leaving the job to a trusted professional.

Get a Brand-New Fuel Injector Today

Avoid driving your vehicle until you replace the faulty fuel injector triggering the P050D code. Damaged fuel injectors can cause your engine to misfire and idle rough. In some cases, they might even prevent your car from starting. This unpredictability can make driving your car dangerous. Luckily, you can easily solve this problem by getting a brand-new fuel injector from CarParts.com today.

At CarParts.com, you’ll find a wide selection of fuel injectors, sourced from only the most trusted manufacturers in the industry. We’re always coming up with the best deals for you, so you can get great parts at competitive prices. However, in case you aren’t completely satisfied with your order, you’ll be pleased to know that we have a 60-day return policy. We accept returns within 60 days of purchase, so you can shop without worry. If you want to return a part, just reach out to our customer support staff, who are always happy to help.

Replace your damaged fuel injector before it prevents your car from starting. Check out our wide selection of fuel injectors at CarParts.com and get a replacement today!

About The Authors
Reviewed By William Guzenski, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Contact Center Manager and Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

William “Bill” Guzenski has produced hundreds of how-to videos for the automotive community. He's an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician, and is affiliated with the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). He loves attending race events and car shows throughout the country, as well as traveling in his 40-foot motorhome, exploring abandoned mines and ghost towns.

Written By CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

View Comments

  • Thank you Bill Guzenski for another well written and informative article. I would definitely leave this problem for my mechanic to solve.