How to Fix the P0275 DTC Code On a 6.0L Powerstroke (Solved)

The Onboard Diagnostic system (OBD) for vehicles provides specific diagnostic trouble codes(DTC) to indicate specific problems with your vehicle. P0275 is one of those DTC codes that may appear on your 6.0 Powerstroke’s OBD display.

The P0275 code on 6.0 Powerstroke means that the 5th number cylinder is facing trouble maintaining balance. Usually, all the cylinders produce the same acceleration rate. If one of them fails to cope, the PCM dictates fault and shows the P0275 code.

So, what should you do with it? Don’t worry. In this article, we are going to provide details about the P0275 code and a guideline on how to fix it.

How to Fix the P0275 DTC Code On a 6.0L Powerstroke

What Does P0275 Code Mean On 6.0 Powerstroke? 

The DTC P0275 code on powerstroke 6.0 indicates that the fifth cylinder is not producing as much power stroke as other cylinders that are creating an imbalance. 

To determine each cylinder’s output, the powertrain control module (PCM) measures the acceleration rates of the crankshafts during power strokes.

It is expected that all the cylinders’ output should be at the same level or at least within 5% of each other. 

When one of the cylinder’s outputs decreases more than 5% of the others, then the PCM considers it faulty and sets the P0275 code to alert. 

If we analyze the code, we can see how it indicates a certain fault.

  • P- P means powertrain. Problems with engines and transmission systems are included under this code
  • 0- 0 is the generic code for SAE OBD-II
  • 2- A certain number indicates a specific component of the issue. In our case, it is cylinder 5.
  • 75- It indicates a specific fault. In this case, the 5th number cylinder is facing trouble maintaining balance.

How Serious Is Code P0275 On 6.0 Powerstroke? 

The code p0275 on 6.0 powerstroke is something that you should take seriously. Because, to run your vehicle smoothly, all the cylinders need to produce power at the same level. When one of them fails, the engine starts running rough.

As a result, you will face difficulty in driving. Even an imbalanced acceleration rate can result in an accident. The risk level of P0275 is considered “stop driving.”

What Causes Code P0275 On The 6.0 Powerstroke?  

If the fifth cylinder of your 6.0 Powerstroke is not producing as much power as the others, then it is likely there is a problem with the fuel injector. 

The fuel injector is supplying less fuel to the cylinder, which is disturbing its performance. The other common causes of seeing code P0275 can be:

  • Lack of fuel supply
  • Faulty fuel injector 
  • Electrical problem on the fuel injector
  • Fuel injector clogged up with dirt
  • Leaking gas casket
  • Damaged valves or rings

Other Symptoms Of Getting P0275 Code On 6.0 Powerstroke 

The main symptom of P0275 is that you will see your 6.0 Powerstroke engine is running roughly. Fuel economy will also decrease when this code is shown. Other symptoms that you may see include:

  • Check engine light turned on and code P0275 appears
  • Engine running rough
  • Decreased acceleration rate
  • Fuel economy decrease 
  • Troubled engine starting 

How To Fix P0275 Code On 6.0 Powerstroke?

To fix the P0275 code shown on your 6.0 Powerstroke, you need to diagnose first. Depending on the causes of the problem, you may need to do simple cleaning or part replacing. Follow the steps below to find out where the fault has occurred and how to fix it.

1. Inspect Electrical Connectors

Check all the electrical connectors of the fuel injector for any corroded harnesses or pushed-out pins. Also, check the bent pins and valves. 

If any part is defective, do necessary repairing or replacing. Damaged parts can cause the cylinder to not function properly. 

2. Check Fuel Injector Condition

Start your 6.0 Powerstroke engine first to check the engine’s condition. Then take a long screwdriver. Put the screwdriver’s blade on the injector and place the handle closer to your ear. 

If you hear any ‘ticking’ noise, then your injector is working. Otherwise, the injector is either faulty or not getting power.

Another test you can perform is a voltage check. Take a voltmeter and connect the red probe to the injector. You should see the battery voltage.

If you don’t see any voltage, possibly the wiring between the fuel injector and the fuel pump relay is open. But if the voltage is seen and the injector is working, the problem can be that the injector is clogged up with dirt. Cleaning the injector will enable the fifth cylinder to function properly.

3. Clean Fuel Injector

To clean a fuel injector, buy an “injector flush kit” from a store that sells auto parts. You will get a pressurized can containing injector cleaner and a hose connector to connect with the fuel rail. After that:

  • Remove fuel pump fuse from the main fuse and fender wall relay box on the driver’s side.
  • Turn on the engine, keep it on until the fuel pressure drops and the engine stalls.
  • Pinch off the fuel return line using vise grips.
  • Now remove the Shrader valve from the fuel test port and connect the hose there.
  • Then attach the can of cleaner to the hose and let it pressurize the fuel rail. Keep the engine running on cleaner until it stalls.
  • Now disconnect the hose, and put in the Shrader valve. Put away the vise grips from the return line and reinstall the fuel pump fuse
  • Reset the code using a code reader.
  • Turn on the engine and inspect it. The code should disappear. If the code comes back, then you will need to replace the fuel injector.

4. Replacing Fuel Injector

The 5 no cylinder is the third one from the passenger side. Replace the fuel injector by following the proper instructions from the manual. Before you proceed to work, make sure the engine is cool enough to touch. 

How Much Does It Cost To Fix 6.0 Powerstroke P0275 Code? 

The mechanic’s cost for diagnosing and fixing a 6.0 Powerstroke is around $75-$150 per hour.  There will be a separate cost for replacement. Replacing one fuel injector may cost around $250-$650.

Can You Drive Your 6.0 Powerstroke With Code P0275?

Driving your Ford 6.0 Powerstroke with code P0275 is not recommended. Your engine will run rough due to an imbalance of 5 cylinders, which is bad for the engine’s health. 

Also, the fuel economy drops, causing a loss of fuel. There can also be other damage if you continue driving with the P0275 code.

Conclusion:  

It is recommended to check all the cylinders while fixing the fifth cylinder imbalance. Sometimes people mistakenly start to fix another number cylinder. 

Make sure to follow the manual that comes with your 6.0 Powerstroke during fixing. It will help you to avoid doing any further unwanted damage to your 6.0 Powerstroke. 

There may be other handy ways to fix the P0275 code. Feel free to follow them if you are sure about them. We provided the most common steps to help you. If this work still seems too tough for you, then consult an expert mechanic.

Similar Posts