P0276 Gray Model O Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0276 Gray Model O code definition:
P0276 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Gray Model O.

P0276 Gray Model O is described as Fuel System Too Rich, which basically means bank 1's oxygen sensor has detected a rich condition of fuel. This means there's not enough oxygen in the exhaust from too much fuel being delivered into the air and gas mixture for combusion. This is because the barometric pressure sensor is part of the MAF sensor. Sometimes, the MAF's sensing wire can accumulate and get covered with dirt, dust and/or oil residue, which can also lead to the error code.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0276 Gray Model O diagnostic trouble code may include:

Lack of power
Faulty O2 Sensor
Poor acceleration
Rich or lean exhaust

Possible Causes :

Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.

Common Misdiagnoses

Vehicle Speed Output Circuit Problem
Cruise Control Servo Indicates Low Problem
A/C System High Pressure High Temperature Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem
Transmission Control Module Reprogrammable Memory Problem

Repair Processes :

Check to make sure they are not burnt or corroded. If in doubt, get some Electrical Contact cleaner at any parts store if cleaning of the terminals is needed. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0276 Gray Model O is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P0276 Gray Model O.

Fortunately, P0276 Gray Model O is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.