P0208
Injector Circuit Malfunction - Cylinder 8
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Code P0208 indicates the engine control module (ECM) has detected an electrical malfunction in the fuel injector circuit for cylinder 8. This code is exclusive to V8, V10, and V12 engines. Cylinder 8 is the last cylinder in the firing order for most V8 configurations, and the ECM has determined that its injector circuit's electrical characteristics are outside normal operating range.
The symptoms mirror those of other injector circuit faults: rough running, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and engine vibration. On a V8 engine, losing one cylinder still leaves seven working, so the vehicle will generally still be drivable, but performance will be noticeably degraded. Extended driving with this condition can damage the catalytic converter as unburned fuel enters the exhaust.
Cylinder 8 is often the rearmost cylinder on one bank of a V8 engine, making it one of the least accessible. On some truck and SUV V8 engines, the intake manifold or other components may need to be partially removed to reach it. This increases both DIY difficulty and professional labor costs. The diagnostic approach remains the same — connector inspection, noid light testing, and injector swapping — but budget extra time for access. Many owners opt for professional repair on rear-bank cylinders due to the tight working conditions.
Severity
Symptoms
- •Check Engine light is on
- •Engine misfires and runs unevenly
- •Reduced power output
- •Increased fuel consumption
- •Engine vibration particularly at idle
- •Rough or uneven exhaust sound
Likely Causes
Cylinder 8's fuel injector has failed electrically — the internal solenoid coil is open or shorted, preventing proper fuel injection.
The injector harness wiring for cylinder 8 has deteriorated from extreme engine bay heat, vibration fatigue, or rodent damage.
The electrical plug at cylinder 8's injector has corroded pins or an insecure connection from heat cycling and vibration.
The ECM's output transistor that controls the ground circuit for cylinder 8's injector has failed internally.
Estimated Cost
Professional Repair
Includes parts + labor
Common Fixes
- Replace the cylinder 8 fuel injector
- Repair or replace wiring harness to cylinder 8
- Clean or replace injector electrical connector
- Test ECM output and replace ECM if driver has failed
Shop Parts
Videos
Causes and Fixes P0208 Code: Injector Circuit / Open - Cylinder 8
HVAC Mechanic
What is P0208 : Engine Error Code Causes Explained
Auto User Guide