Error Code P268E: What It Means & What To Do?

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Check engine light illuminated? Don’t know what to do? Here’s all you need to know about the error code P268E. This generic OBD-II code decreased engine performance is referred to as a cylinder 3 injector data incompatible. These fuel injectors installed have a calibration number printed on each side. At times when the injector is restored, one should enter the number into the engine computer (PCM) and glow plug control module (GPCM). The code P268E is stored whenever the calibration ID is not registered to both modules.

All the injectors individually have a code stored in the electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) that performs the function of providing information to the electronic control unit (ECU) regarding the deviations of that injector from a theoretical average injector. Also, the PCM sets the code P268E whenever the injector code is absent or wrong.

What causes this problem with the Cylinder 3 Injector Data Incompatible?

• Wrong programming of the PCM or fuel control module (particularly when a PCM or controller replacement has taken place)
• Damaged fuel injectors
• Corroded or loose injector connectors or wiring
• Open or short-circuited wiring and connectors between the interfacing control modules or the PCM input circuitry from the engine sensors
• Loose or shorted ground wires to the PCM or other control modules
• Malfunction in the PCM
• Problems related to the program injector

1. Fuel Injectors - The fuel injectors perform the task of monitoring the apt amount of fuel in the engine. So faulty ones can be damaging and can hamper the overall functionality of the vehicle. Change or repair it now!
2. Powertrain Control Module - Unable to start the car? Love travelling? Engine stalling? Don’t know the reason behind it all? Well, it is likely to be caused due to damaged powertrain control module. Log into Parts Avatar for top notch PCMs available at just the right prices.
3. Glow Plug Control Module - Are you suddenly experiencing a low engine performance? Can’t start the vehicle at all? Then this is most probably triggered due to a defect in the glow plug control module. Visit us today to grab amazing deals on premium quality products.
4. Engine Control Module - Having problems with the engine control module? See the error code P268E? Then it could be stimulated due to a malfunction in the engine control module. So, to avoid expensive after repairs we advise you to get your engine control module changed as soon as possible.

Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD code P268E? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:

Common Symptoms

• Low engine performance
• No start conditions

We have listed out so ways which would help you to correct the occurrence of OBD code P268E. They are mentioned here as follows:

• Repair or replace all the defective fuel injectors
• Make sure you fix a damaged PCM or glow plug control module
• All the connectors and wiring associated to the fuel injectors should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

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It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P268E code to be stored:

• This type of code is found only in applications with diesel engines.
• Many recent model diesel fuel injectors are separately numbered for electronic identification.
• In order for that specific injector to be recognized by the controller, this alpha numeric identification number must be programmed into the PCM (or auxiliary controller).
• Many scanners will allow the technician to revive these alpha numeric numbers (or codes) before to controller replacement.
• If the numbers are correctly revived, they can be entered again into the new controller upon replacement and no codes will be displayed.
• If the numbers are not entered correctly, this type of code will be the result.
• To obtain the individual alpha numeric codes you may do so by removing the appropriate valve cover and physically reviving it.
• Presentation of this type of code generally indicates that a malfunction has occurred in the reprogramming process or the CAN.
• CAN is the acronym for “controller area network.” The CAN is a representation of a communication bus that permits multiple micro controllers to communicate with each other without the requirement for a host computer.
• Also, it is based in messages and is designed for automotive use.
• The CAN bus network is actually complicated accumulation of wiring harnesses and connectors which is used as a channel of information shared between two or more automotive control modules.
• Virtually all electrical functions of the vehicle are controlled by these controllers, with the PCM being the main controller.
• Input data from various sensors is received by these control modules. These control modules also emit output signals to system components and other control modules.
• For example: an input signal from the vehicle speed sensor is received by the PCM.
• This signal is methodically forwarded to affected control modules that use the data to achieve various other tasks.
• Data is used by the cruise control module for speed control purposes, the traction control system utilizes the data to monitor vehicle traction control strategy while the anti lock brake controller compares vehicle speed from the PCM with data inputs from individual wheel speed sensors to help in the functioning of the anti-lock braking system. The module identifies the internal control module failures. Also, the CAN bus is very important as other modules also detect the error.
• Failure of individual control module is rare but possible.
• Comply with the manufacturer’s recommended testing method for the diagnosis of the individual control modules and replace them as necessary.
• Reprogramming will be required while replacing all these control modules.
• Numerous tools are instrumental and help greatly in diagnosing these codes namely: suitable OBD-II scanner (or code reader) and a digital volt/ohmmeter. These help greatly in performing the diagnosis.
• It is advised to refer to the manufacturer's wiring schematic as this proves to be extremely helpful. A careful visual inspection should be performed of all PCM wiring and connectors. All the damaged or corroded parts, wiring or connectors should be mended or restored.
• Then a retest should be performed to ensure accuracy. If in case, all the wiring, connectors and parts (including fuses) are functioning in order, the scanner (or code reader) should be connected to the diagnostic connector and record all stored codes and freeze frame data.
• Record this information as it can be helpful in diagnosing intermittent conditions that may have contributed to this code being stored.
• Again, clear the codes to see if the code returns.
• If the code doesn’t return, it may be an intermittent condition. Also, in these cases, intermittent conditions can prove to be quite a challenge to diagnose and in extreme cases may have to be allowed to worsen before a correct diagnosis can even be attempted
• Not like other codes, this code may be left for professional assistance because of bulk of circuitry involved
• A mechanic will use a specialized scanner (autohex or tech II) to determine the general area of the malfunction quickly and easily than someone using a code reader and a digital volt ohmmeter
• Next, each and every single pin of the CAN bus should be disconnected as it could prove to be extremely time and cost prohibitive
• Also, we advise you to install some kind of a memory saving device or otherwise the PCM and other controllers may require reprogramming due to loss of memory
• Without a risk of any meltdown, the specialized diagnostic CAN scanner will show pin values and control module operation
• It performs the function of diagnosing the computer and circuitry problems by monitoring vehicle operation while the vehicle is being operated
• While this type of code is diagnosed, a digital volt ohmmeter would require probing thousands of circuits, independently
• It should be noted that one should be careful as a misplaced probe can destroy costly control modules and require that the vehicle be totally reprogrammed. You should perform (at most) a continuity test after all control modules are disconnected, and this could literally require 40-hours or more, depending upon the vehicle
• Many applications have around 18 separate control modules. If you choose to perform this tedious task, start with a careful inspection of all the circuitry, connector and fuses.
• Test the control module ground circuits for continuity with battery ground
• Defective or loose system grounds often lead to such type of codes being stored
• To diagnose system ground problems, an auxiliary ground cable will be extremely helpful
• Make sure there are no engine and transmission ground cables, straps and wires left dangling after repairs are performed
• Search for any open or burnt electrical connectors that may increased the circuit resistance and caused these types of codes to be stored. Acquire a CAN bus system and/or pin out value chart. Then, utilize the digital volt ohmmeter to probe continuity between individual controller connectors
• The results should be compared to the manufacturer's referenced values. All the open or shorted circuits should be restored or mended
• It is always easy to restore damaged wiring rather than trying to remove it from the complex web of wiring harnesses

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P268E Code

Here we have listed a few common mistakes that should be avoided while performing the diagnosis:

• Failure in reprogramming the fuel injectors linked to the powertrain control module and glow plug control module is one of the most common mistakes.