P0263: Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance
3 vehicles · 3 makes · $400-$5,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0263 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance.” Cylinder 1 is not contributing its expected share of engine power. Common on diesel engines. This code is most commonly reported on 2001-2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, 2005-2010 SEAT Leon (Reference, Style, FR), and 2015-2024 GMC Sierra 3500HD, with repair costs ranging from $400 to $5,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 3 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0263, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.
Vehicles Affected (3)
FAQ
What does P0263 mean?
P0263 stands for "Cylinder 1 Contribution/Balance." Cylinder 1 is not contributing its expected share of engine power. Common on diesel engines.
What are the most common causes of P0263?
The most common causes of P0263 are: Faulty fuel injector cylinder 1, Low compression, Glow plug failure (diesel), Injector calibration issue, Valve timing fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0263?
Repair costs for P0263 range from $400 to $5,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0263?
Au7o has documented P0263 across 3 vehicle models from 3 manufacturers: Chevrolet, GMC, SEAT.
Sources (8)
- mediaDuramax LML CP4 Pump Problems - Merchant Automotive
- mediaHow to Prevent LML CP4 Failure - Dirty Diesel Customs
- ForumCP4 failure - DuramaxForum
- manufacturerOregon Fuel Injection: Chevrolet-GMC Diesel Diagnostics
- ForumSilveradoSierra: 6.6L Duramax Diesel blowing white smoke
- mediaChevy Trucks: The 3 Most Common Duramax L5P Engine Problems
- mediaDiesel Power Products: Common Duramax Diesel Problems & Fixes LB7 to L5P
- ForumDuramax Forum: 2015 LML blowing white smoke but why
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.