Easy one-page printout for the garage or repair shop
This summary uses the existing diagnostic information shown in full below.
The car's engine is having trouble with one of its cylinders, specifically the third one, when using an alternative fuel like ethanol or natural gas. It's like when a sparkler doesn't light up properly during a celebration.
The engine control module (ECM) has detected a misfire in cylinder 3 when running on an alternative fuel. This means the cylinder isn't firing correctly, which can affect engine performance.
A misfire in cylinder 3 has been detected while the engine is operating on an alternative fuel. This could be due to issues with fuel delivery, ignition, or mechanical problems within the cylinder. The ECM monitors the crankshaft position sensor and other parameters to identify misfires.
• Rough idling
• Reduced engine performance
• Increased fuel consumption
• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Engine hesitation or stalling
• Faulty spark plug in cylinder 3
• Clogged or faulty fuel injector for cylinder 3
• Ignition coil failure in cylinder 3
• Incorrect fuel mixture or pressure for alternative fuel
• Mechanical issues such as a worn piston or valve in cylinder 3
ECM: Engine Control Module, the computer that manages engine functions.
Misfire: A failure of the air/fuel mixture in a cylinder to ignite properly.
• Check for any other diagnostic trouble codes.
• Inspect the spark plug and ignition coil for cylinder 3.
• Test the fuel injector for cylinder 3.
• Verify fuel pressure and quality of alternative fuel.
• Conduct a compression test on cylinder 3.
• Replace the spark plug for cylinder 3.
• Replace or clean the fuel injector for cylinder 3.
• Replace the ignition coil for cylinder 3.
• Adjust the fuel mixture or repair fuel delivery issues.
• Repair any mechanical issues within cylinder 3.
• OBD-II scanner
• Spark plug socket
• Fuel pressure gauge
• Compression tester
• Multimeter
$150 - $600
Moderate
• Chevrolet Volt
• Toyota Prius
• Honda Civic Natural Gas
• Regularly maintain and inspect spark plugs and ignition components.
• Use high-quality alternative fuels.
• Perform regular fuel system cleanings.
Engine Performance
• Avoid driving the vehicle aggressively until repaired.
• Monitor fuel efficiency and engine performance.
• Schedule a diagnostic check with a professional mechanic.
Check with your vehicle manufacturer, as some powertrain warranties may cover engine misfires.
Misfires in alternative fuel vehicles have been a common issue as these vehicles require precise fuel and ignition management.
Moderate – While the vehicle may still operate, prolonged driving with a misfire can cause further engine damage.
Driving with an engine misfire can lead to increased emissions and may not comply with local environmental regulations.
• Engine running on alternative fuel
• Engine at operating temperature
Cylinder 3 is located on the engine block, typically identified in the vehicle's service manual.
Q: Can I drive with a P2E5B code?
A: It's not recommended to drive for extended periods with this code, as it can lead to further engine damage.
Q: What alternative fuels might cause this issue?
A: Common alternative fuels include ethanol, natural gas, and propane. Each requires specific engine tuning.
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Fitment Required · Vehicle-fitment part
Commonly relevant for misfire, ignition-efficiency, and some drivability-related repairs.
Misfire and ignition-related faults commonly involve spark plugs as part of the repair path.
Check the correct plug type, gap, and engine application for your vehicle.
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Fitment Required · Vehicle-fitment part
Relevant when the fault points toward ignition-coil performance or cylinder-specific ignition issues.
Some ignition faults involve coil performance or cylinder-specific coil problems.
Match the coil to your engine and confirm the failed component before ordering.
View options on AmazonThese parts may be related to this fault category, but a code by itself does not confirm exact fitment or guarantee that replacing a part will solve the problem.