OBD Guide

P039C

Cylinder 1 Pressure Variation Low

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$33–222 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Misfire in cylinder 1
  • Unstable idle
  • Loss of engine power
  • Increased exhaust toxicity

Causes

  • Low compression in cylinder 1
  • Faulty or clogged fuel injector of cylinder 1
  • Weak spark plug or faulty coil
  • Cylinder pressure sensor malfunction
  • Leaking valves or head gasket

How to Fix

  1. Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to assess the condition of the piston rings and valves
  2. Check the spark plug and ignition coil of cylinder 1
  3. Diagnose the fuel injector of cylinder 1 (balance, spray)
  4. Check the pressure sensor and its circuit for serviceability
  5. If necessary, perform a cylinder leak test.
  6. Eliminate faults found and reset error codes

Related codes

Error P039C by Vehicle Brand