P0279 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC P0279 – Cylinder 6 Contribution/Balance Fault

DTC P0279 meaning

DTC P0279 refers to a “Cylinder 6 Contribution/Balance Fault.” This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected an imbalance in the performance of cylinder 6 compared to the other cylinders in the engine. This imbalance can be due to various factors affecting the cylinder’s ability to contribute to the engine’s overall power output.

DTC P0279 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC P0279 may include:

• Rough idling or misfiring of the engine
• Decreased engine performance and power
• Increased fuel consumption
• Illuminated check engine light
• Vibration or shaking during acceleration

DTC P0279 causes

Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC P0279, including:

• Faulty fuel injector for cylinder 6
• Vacuum leaks affecting cylinder 6
• Worn or damaged piston rings
• Faulty ignition components (spark plug, ignition coil)
• Low compression in cylinder 6
• Faulty ECM or wiring issues

DTC P0279 seriousness

DTC P0279 can indicate a serious issue with the engine’s performance. If left unaddressed, it may lead to:

• Increased emissions
• Potential engine damage
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Complete engine failure in severe cases

It is advisable to diagnose and repair the issue promptly to avoid further complications.

How to diagnose DTC P0279

To diagnose DTC P0279, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of DTC P0279.
2. Check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context.
3. Inspect the engine for visible signs of damage or wear.
4. Perform a compression test on cylinder 6 to check for mechanical issues.
5. Test the fuel injector operation for cylinder 6.
6. Examine the ignition system components related to cylinder 6.
7. Check for vacuum leaks around the intake manifold and related components.

How to fix DTC P0279 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC P0279, follow these steps:

1. Address any identified vacuum leaks by replacing gaskets or hoses.
2. If the fuel injector is faulty, replace it with a new one.
3. Replace any worn or damaged ignition components, such as spark plugs or ignition coils.
4. If low compression is detected, consider performing a rebuild or replacing the affected components.
5. Ensure all electrical connections and wiring related to cylinder 6 are secure and free from damage.
6. Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue is resolved.

How to erase DTC P0279

To erase DTC P0279, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” option on the scanner.
4. Confirm the action to clear the trouble codes.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the engine to verify that the code does not reappear.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.