What does fault code ECM-P120164 mean?

Diagnostic fault code details for ECM-P120164 (Volvo C30 (2007–2013), Volvo C70 (2006–2013), Volvo C70 (2006–2013)). Repair service at OBD Tuning.

VOLVO

ECM-P120164 - Cylinder #1 Injector Circuit Open/Shorted. Algorithm Based Failures. Signal plausibility failure

System

Engine Control Module (ECM)

Volvo models this fault code applies to

Applies to the following models:

12 models

C30 (2007–2013), C70 (2006–2013), S40 (2004–2013), S60 (2011–), S80 (2007–), V40 (2013–), V40 Cross Country (2013–), V50 (2004–2013), V60 (2011–), V70 (2008–), XC60 (2009–), XC70 (2008–)

Show models by year and engine (40)

What does this fault code mean?

The ECM monitors the injection system and its parts. The code is set when the cylinder 1 injector circuit has a short. This may be caused by short circuits in the supply, ground or signal wiring, or by an internal short circuit in the injector.

Possible causes

Supply wire shorted to ground
Supply wire shorted to voltage
Ground wire shorted to voltage
Signal wire shorted to ground
Signal wire shorted to voltage
Internal short circuit in the injector

What you can do

1Read and note the code, clear it and road test to see whether it returns
2Use a multimeter to check whether the wires to injector cylinder 1 are shorted to ground or voltage, with the engine control module connector disconnected
3Inspect the wires to injector cylinder 1 for chafing and pinching, especially where they may have touched each other
4Check that the injector connector is firmly seated and clean
5If you find no fault in the wiring: have a workshop check the injector

Symptoms you may notice4

Uneven idle
Poor performance and lack of power while driving
Hesitation, surging or jerky running while driving, either occasionally or all the time
The engine does not start, either occasionally or all the time

General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.