Fix P219D: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The P219D: Cylinder #2 Imbalance Error code indicates a problem with the air to fuel ratio in cylinder #2 of the engine. This imbalance can affect the engine’s performance, causing issues like rough idling, hesitation, and reduced fuel efficiency. The code is set off by the powertrain control module (PCM) when it detects inconsistencies in the oxygen sensor readings or variations in the engine RPM, pointing to a potential imbalance.

P219D quick overview

Meaning	P219D: Cylinder #2 Imbalance Error
Is it serious?	This code is serious as it indicates an imbalance in the air to fuel ratio for cylinder #2, which can lead to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Possible causes	– Faulty or dirty oxygen sensors – Inadequate engine compression in cylinder #2 – Defective crankshaft position (CKP) or camshaft position (CMP) sensor – Damaged or disconnected wiring and connectors – Issues with the fuel injection system – Clogged or dirty fuel filter – Malfunctioning mass air flow (MAF) or manifold air pressure (MAP) sensor
How to diagnose?	Inspect Oxygen Sensors: Check the oxygen sensors for proper operation. Test Engine Compression: Ensure cylinder #2 has adequate compression. Evaluate CKP and CMP Sensors: Examine these sensors for correct readings. Check Wiring and Connectors: Look for any damage or disconnections in wiring. Assess Fuel System: Inspect the fuel injectors and fuel pressure. Examine MAF/MAP Sensors: Check these sensors for faults or dirt. Investigate Fuel Filter: Ensure the fuel filter is not clogged.

How to fix P219D – learn from mechanics

I looked into P219D service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Audi

Vehicle Information: 2010 Audi Q5 Premium Plus 3.2L

Issue + Repair History:

• Cylinder imbalance codes for all 3 cylinders on the right bank.
• Recent intake cam replacement on the same bank due to worn lobe.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P219c: Fuel/air mixture cylinder 1 unbalanced sporadic.
• P219e: Fuel air mix cylinder 3 unbalanced sporadic.
• P219d: Fuel air mix cylinder 2 unbalanced sporadic.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check fuel injectors for possible issues or mismatch.
• Verify fuel trim at idle and off idle speeds in group 032 using a scan tool.
• Consider checking the running compression on the engine.
• Reset all adaptives, including fuel trims, before proceeding with any repair actions.

Final Fix:

• The issue was due to a new #1 injector that did not match the flow of the old ones, causing fuel trim issues.
• Replacing all injectors in each bank resolved the issue.

Case #2: Toyota

Vehicle Information: 2012 Toyota Camry 2.5L

Issue + Repair History:

• Rough idling and occasional stalling.
• Code P219D triggered, indicating cylinder #2 imbalance error.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P219D: Cylinder #2 Imbalance Error.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Inspect the oxygen sensors for proper operation.
• Check the engine compression to rule out mechanical issues.
• Examine CKP and CMP sensors for correct readings.

Final Fix:

• Replaced a faulty oxygen sensor, improving air-fuel balance and resolving the issue.

Case #3: Volkswagen

Vehicle Information: 2015 VW Passat 1.8T

Issue + Repair History:

• Decreased fuel efficiency and occasional misfires.
• Diagnostic tool displayed P219D for cylinder #2 imbalance.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P219D: Cylinder #2 Imbalance Error.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Verify fuel pressure and quality.
• Check for damaged or disconnected wiring and connectors.
• Evaluate mass air flow (MAF) sensor functionality.

Final Fix:

• Identified and repaired a wiring issue affecting the MAF sensor, which resolved the cylinder imbalance.

Case #4: Lexus

Vehicle Information: 2013 Lexus IS 250

Issue + Repair History:

• Engine performance issues, particularly under load.
• P219D code indicated imbalance in cylinder #2.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P219D: Cylinder #2 Imbalance Error.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Inspect for vacuum leaks in the intake system.
• Perform a fuel system cleaning to clear potential clogs.
• Test the CKP and CMP sensors for erratic readings.

Final Fix:

• A vacuum leak was found and repaired in the intake manifold, resolving the imbalance issue in cylinder #2.

Case #5: Audi

Vehicle Information: 2014 Audi A4 2.0T

Issue + Repair History:

• Hesitation during acceleration, especially when cold.
• Code P219D flagged for cylinder #2.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P219D: Cylinder #2 Imbalance Error.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Replace spark plugs and ignition coils if worn.
• Check the fuel injector for cylinder #2 for proper function.
• Ensure there are no exhaust leaks before the oxygen sensors.

Final Fix:

• Replaced a malfunctioning fuel injector on cylinder #2, which corrected the air-fuel ratio imbalance and resolved the hesitation issue.

Advice	Brief Description of Diagnostic Step
Check Oxygen Sensors	Inspect the oxygen sensors for proper functionality and response.
Inspect Wiring and Connectors	Examine wiring and connectors related to the cylinder for damage or disconnection.
Evaluate Fuel Pressure	Verify the fuel pressure to ensure it’s within the proper range for optimal engine performance.
Test CKP and CMP Sensors	Check the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors for accurate readings.
Inspect Fuel Injectors	Evaluate the fuel injectors, especially for the affected cylinder, for clogs or malfunctions.
Look for Vacuum Leaks	Search for any vacuum leaks in the intake system that might affect air-fuel balance.
Check Spark Plugs and Coils	Inspect the condition of spark plugs and ignition coils, replacing if necessary.
Examine for Exhaust Leaks	Ensure there are no leaks in the exhaust system, particularly before the oxygen sensors.