OBD Guide

P0272

Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance

P0272 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance. Common causes: faulty spark plug, problems with the ignition coil. Estimated repair cost: $56–167.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$56–167 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Misfire in cylinder 4
  • Engine troubles
  • Power reduction
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Unstable idle

Causes

  • Faulty spark plug
  • Problems with the ignition coil
  • Clogged fuel injectors
  • Low cylinder compression
  • Wiring harness damage
  • Crankshaft position sensor malfunction

How to Fix

  1. Check spark plugs and replace if necessary
  2. Check the ignition coil of cylinder 4
  3. Clean or replace fuel injectors
  4. Check compression in cylinder
  5. Inspect the wiring harness for damage
  6. Check crankshaft position sensor

Related codes

Error P0272 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P0272 code mean?

P0272 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Cylinder 4 Contribution/Balance

What causes a P0272 error code?

The most common causes of P0272 include: Faulty spark plug; Problems with the ignition coil; Clogged fuel injectors; Low cylinder compression.

How do I fix a P0272 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0272: Check spark plugs and replace if necessary. Check the ignition coil of cylinder 4. Clean or replace fuel injectors. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0272?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix P0272?

The estimated repair cost for P0272 is $56–167. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

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