P0213: Cold start injector 1 circuit fault
Cold start injector 1 circuit fault
Severity: Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected
The sources describe the fault and its symptoms but do not give a driving-safety rating, so the severity is not verified.
P0213 in short
P0213 means the engine computer found a fault with cold start injector 1, the separate injector that adds fuel when the engine is cold. Typical results are hard starting, poor fuel economy and higher emissions. The injector, its circuit, a cold start switch or rarely the computer can be at fault.
Some engines have an extra injector that sprays added fuel during cold starts. P0213 is set when the computer finds a fault with that injector or its circuit.
The reference lists a failed injector, a circuit fault, a faulty cold start injector switch where fitted, and the computer. Only some vehicles have a cold start injector.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: Failed cold start injector
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- The injector is the part the code names and the first item listed.
- What would change this
- Rises if its resistance is out of specification. Falls if resistance is good and power or ground is missing.
Cause 2: Fault in the injector circuit or cold start switch
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- The reference lists the circuit and the cold start switch where fitted.
- What would change this
- Rises if power, ground or continuity tests fail. Falls if the circuit tests good.
Cause 3: Engine computer fault (if applicable)
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- Listed last by the reference.
- What would change this
- Rises only after injector and circuit tests are good. Falls if any earlier test finds a fault.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Inspect the cold start injector and its wiring for damage.
IfDamage found
It meansRepair it and recheck.
Points to: Fault in the injector circuit or cold start switch
IfLooks fine
It meansTest the injector.
Step 2: With the connector unplugged, measure injector resistance and compare with the manufacturer specification; check for power and a ground signal at the connector.
Warning:Fuel is flammable and the injector sits on the fuel system; keep sparks away and do not loosen fuel fittings.
IfResistance out of specification
It meansThe injector is suspect.
IfInjector good but power or ground missing
It meansTrace the circuit or switch.
Points to: Fault in the injector circuit or cold start switch
Symptoms
- Hard starting, especially cold
- Poor fuel economy
- Higher emissions
- Check engine light on
How to fix
Step 1: Inspect the cold start injector and its connector for visible damage.
Parts and cost context
- Fuel injector:Confirm the fault with testing before buying parts. Labour varies; get a quote.
Labor varies by vehicle and shop; get a quote before you approve a repair.
Compare used part prices on PartPriceGuideOn your vehicle
We don't have reviewed vehicle-specific evidence for P0213 yet. The causes and tests above apply across vehicles.
Related codes
No curated relationships for P0213 yet.
Sources and review
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error