P1262 - High to Low Side Short in Cylinder #3 Injector Circuit
Code P1262 indicates a short circuit between the high and low sides of the fuel injector circuit for cylinder #3. This typically means the injector's internal winding has failed, causing a direct short, or there is a wiring issue (e.g., chafed wires touching) between the injector's power and ground circuits. The PCM detects abnormal current flow and sets this code. This can cause misfire, poor fuel economy, and potential catalytic converter damage if ignored.
1. Symptoms You Will Notice
- Check Engine Light on
- Engine misfire on cylinder #3
- Rough idle or hesitation
- Decreased fuel economy
- Possible fuel smell from exhaust
2. Most Common Causes
- Faulty fuel injector on cylinder #3 (internal short)
- Wiring harness damage causing short between injector circuits
- Corroded or damaged injector connector
- PCM internal failure (rare)
3. Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1: Scan for codes and confirm P1262 is present. Check freeze frame data.
Step 2: Visually inspect injector #3 wiring and connector for damage, corrosion, or shorts.
Step 3: Use a multimeter to measure resistance between injector #3 high and low side terminals. Compare to specification (typically 11-17 ohms). A reading near 0 ohms indicates a short.
Step 4: Swap injector #3 with another cylinder and clear codes. If the code moves to the new cylinder, replace the injector. If not, inspect wiring and PCM.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?▼
It is not recommended. Driving with a shorted injector can cause misfire, unburned fuel entering the exhaust, and potential catalytic converter damage. Have it diagnosed promptly.
How much does it cost to fix?▼
Replacing a fuel injector typically costs $150-$400 including parts and labor. Wiring repairs may be less, but PCM replacement is more expensive.
5. Commonly Affected Makes
This is a manufacturer-specific code. The exact manufacturer is not confirmed in our current database.