OBD-II Code P0213 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

P0213 means the ECM has detected a fault in the cold start injector 1 circuit. Some older engines use a separate cold start injector that sprays extra fuel when the engine is cold to help it start smoothly. This injector is separate from the normal fuel injectors and only operates during cold starts. You may notice hard starting in cold weather, rough idle on startup, or the engine cranking longer than usual before it fires.

Affected Models

Older Toyota and Lexus V6/V8 models
Classic Nissan engines (VG series)
Older Honda engines
Early 1990s Mitsubishi vehicles
Some older European vehicles with cold start systems

Common Causes

Cold start injector 1 has a failed solenoid coil and cannot open
Wiring to the cold start injector is broken, corroded, or shorted
Cold start injector connector is loose, corroded, or has damaged pins
Cold start injector relay has failed and is not sending power to the injector
ECM cold start injector driver circuit has an internal fault

How to Fix It

Confirm your vehicle actually has a cold start injector. Many modern vehicles do not use this system. Check your repair manual or a vehicle-specific forum to verify.

On most vehicles made after 2000, this code is rare because cold start injectors were phased out in favor of better fuel injection strategies.
Locate the cold start injector — it is usually mounted on the intake manifold, separate from the main injectors. Inspect its wiring and connector for obvious damage or corrosion.

The cold start injector on many Japanese vehicles from the 1980s and 1990s is centrally mounted on the intake plenum.
Test the cold start injector relay with a multimeter. Locate the relay in the fuse box, test for power on the input side, and confirm the relay clicks and passes power when activated.

A bad relay is one of the cheapest fixes — most relays cost under $20.
Measure the resistance of the cold start injector itself. Disconnect the connector and probe the two terminals. Compare your reading to the factory specification.

Cold start injectors often have different resistance specs than regular injectors — check your manual.
Inspect the cold start injector wiring from the injector back to the ECM and relay. Repair any breaks, corrosion, or damaged insulation found along the route.

Old wiring insulation becomes brittle over time and cracks easily — look closely along the whole harness.

When to Call a Professional

Cold start injectors are found on older vehicles, and finding the correct replacement part can be challenging. A professional mechanic with experience on older imports or classics is your best resource. Fuel system electrical work requires care — working near fuel with electrical tools has safety risks. If the relay or ECM is suspected, professional diagnosis will save you money on guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cold start injector?

A cold start injector is an extra fuel injector used only when the engine is cold. It sprays a fine mist of fuel into the intake manifold to help the engine fire up quickly in freezing temperatures. Most modern vehicles no longer use them — improved fuel injection computers eliminated the need.

Can I drive with P0213?

In warm weather, yes — the cold start injector is only used during cold starts, so you may not notice a problem in summer. In cold weather, you may have hard starting or extended cranking. The code should still be diagnosed and fixed before winter arrives.

Is the cold start injector expensive to replace?

The injector itself is usually $30 to $100 if you can find one for your specific older vehicle. The labor is typically low because the injector is easy to access on most engines. The bigger challenge is finding the correct part for older vehicles — try dealer parts departments or specialty suppliers.