P0263 — Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance

What Does P0263 Mean?

P0263 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance. This code relates to the fuel injection system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 2 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P0263

⚠️ Engine misfires

Common Causes

🔍 Clogged or leaking fuel injector

P0263 Reports by Year

2020

1

2013

1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE RUNNING BUT STANDING STILL THE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, THE UVO/ONBOARD VOICE ALERT CAME ON AND ALERTED TO A SERIOUS ENGINE ISSUE/OR FAILURE. ENGINE CODE P0263 (CONTRIBUTION BALANCE) & P0301 (CYLINDER 1 MISFIRE). DEALER DIAGNOSED CYLINDER 1 INTER"
— Kia Sorento owner, 10/02/2020

"MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HER 2010 VW JETTA S/W TDI DSG HOME FROM WORK AND SHE NOTICED THAT IT SEEMED TO BE RUNNING A LITTLE ROUGHER THEN USUAL (IN DECEMBER WHEN WE HAD THE 40K SERVICE DONE WE WERE TOLD THAT IT NEEDED A FUEL FILTER AND THAT WOULD SOLVE THE PROBLEM...IT DID FOR ABOUT A WEEK OR SO). WHEN SH"
— Volkswagen Jetta owner, 03/11/2013

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P0263

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	KIA SORENTO
2	VOLKSWAGEN JETTA

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?

It depends on the severity. If the vehicle runs normally, short trips are usually OK. If you notice performance issues, drivability problems, or warning lights beyond the check engine light, get it checked soon.

Will this code clear itself?

Some codes clear automatically after the underlying issue is fixed and several drive cycles pass. But the root cause must be addressed first.

How do I find the exact cause?

A code alone doesn't pinpoint the failed part. You need a diagnostic scan ($50-150 at most shops) that reads freeze frame data and live sensor readings to identify the specific component.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)

1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

P0263: Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance