U212U Alpine V6 Diagnostic Trouble Code

U212U Alpine V6 code definition:
U212U is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic U-Network Diagnostic Trouble Code for Alpine V6.

U212U Alpine V6 is defined as Cylinder 3 Injector Circuit Malfunction. This code means the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control) has detected a problem in the injector or its wiring, or in injector circuit for cylinder 3. The spark should have a light tan color. If the sensor probe comes with white and chalky parts, this means it has been lagging between switching phases, and should be replaced.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a U212U Alpine V6 diagnostic trouble code may include:

The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Faulty PCM
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Rich or lean exhaust

Possible Causes :

The Mass Airflow sensor will also cause this problem. Mass Airflow circuit malfunction.
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Common Misdiagnoses

Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Valve 1 Problem
BBV Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Problem
Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle Problem
Cruise Inhibit Control Circuit Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender. Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed. If the scan tool has that capability, and the scan tool can operate the IMRC valves, then the problem is either resolved and a simple code clearing is all that's left or a new PCM would be called for.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code U212U Alpine V6 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 U212U Alpine V6.

Fortunately, U212U Alpine V6 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.