P0282
Cylinder 8 Injector Circuit Low
When a vehicle powertrain module registers the fault code P0282, it points directly to an internal system malfunction identified as "Cylinder 8 Injector Circuit Low". Operating your engine under this condition may degrade long-term fuel maps.
Driver's Summary
Storing code P0282 is your car's way of telling you something is wrong with the cylinder 8 injector circuit low. On the road, this usually shows up as noticeable lack of power, engine stumbling, mil illuminated. Stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so. This fault can lead to expensive secondary damage if left unaddressed.
Symptoms
Noticeable lack of power, engine stumbling, MIL illuminated
Common Causes
- Defective Cyl 8 injector
- Grounded control wire
- Corrosion in connector
- Bad PCM
How to Fix
- 1 Replace Cyl 8 injector
- 2 Test wire continuity and repair
- 3 Clean connector contacts
- 4 Replace engine computer
Technical Explanation
The PCM triggers P0282 after its internal monitoring routine detects that a specific circuit or sensor has exceeded its acceptable operating range. The PCM monitors crankshaft rotational velocity via the CKP sensor at a resolution of individual tooth gaps on the reluctor ring. A combustion event in each cylinder produces a measurable acceleration spike; its absence or weakness is flagged as a misfire event within a 200-revolution or 1000-revolution test window. After two failed drive cycles, the code transitions from a pending to a confirmed DTC, and the PCM activates the MIL. Clearing the code without repairing the fault will result in re-illumination within one to two complete drive cycles.
Is It Safe to Drive?
This fault carries real mechanical risk. The root causes — including defective cyl 8 injector — can trigger a chain reaction of component failures if the vehicle continues to be driven. Have it towed or drive directly to a shop without delay.
Mechanic's Pro Tip
When diagnosing P0282, always test fuel volume delivery in addition to static pressure — a pump that holds pressure at idle but delivers insufficient volume under load will cause the fault only during acceleration or high demand, making it difficult to replicate in the driveway. Use a fuel pressure gauge with a volume outlet port: a healthy pump should deliver at least 1 liter per minute. Replace the fuel filter first; it's the cheapest test and solves the fault in a significant percentage of cases.
Injector: 150 - 400