OBD-II Code P219E: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes & How to Fix It with iCarsoft CR Ultra P
If your engine misfires, sputters under load, or triggers the check engine light with OBD-II Code P219E—defined as “Cylinder 3 Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance”—you’re facing a cylinder-specific combustion issue that erodes performance and risks costly damage. The ideal 14.7:1 air-fuel ratio is non-negotiable for smooth engine operation, but an imbalance in Cylinder 3 throws off this harmony, leading to inefficient burning and component wear. But you don’t need to overpay for dealer guesswork: this guide breaks down everything you need to know about P219E, plus why the iCarsoft CR Ultra P diagnostic tool is the DIYer’s must-have to detect, troubleshoot, and clear this error code for good.
What Is OBD-II Code P219E?
OBD-II codes are universal alerts from your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) when powertrain systems malfunction. Specifically, P219E indicates the air-fuel mixture in Cylinder 3 is imbalanced—either too rich (excess fuel) or too lean (excess air) compared to the ECM’s target ratio.
Cylinder 3’s location varies by engine layout: inline engines number cylinders front to back, while V-shaped engines split into banks (Cylinder 3 typically resides in Bank 1 or 2, depending on the make/model). The ECM relies on oxygen (O2) sensors, fuel injectors, and mass airflow (MAF) sensors to regulate fuel delivery to each cylinder. When Cylinder 3’s mixture deviates significantly, P219E is triggered—wasting fuel, causing misfires, and potentially damaging spark plugs, injectors, or the catalytic converter over time.
Common Symptoms of P219E
Watch for these telltale signs that P219E is affecting Cylinder 3:
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Illuminated or flashing Check Engine Light (MIL)
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Engine misfires (most noticeable at idle or low speeds)
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Rough idling or noticeable vibration from the engine bay
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Sluggish acceleration and reduced power (Cylinder 3 fails to contribute fully)
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Increased fuel consumption (imbalanced mixture forces the engine to work harder)
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Strong fuel odor (rich mixture) or popping noises (lean mixture) from the exhaust
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Black smoke (rich) or white/gray smoke (lean) from the tailpipe
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Failed emissions tests (unburned fuel or incomplete combustion skews readings)
Top Causes of P219E
Pinpointing P219E’s root cause (specific to Cylinder 3) is key to cost-effective repairs—and a professional diagnostic tool simplifies this. Common triggers include:
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Faulty or clogged fuel injector (Cylinder 3): Delivers inconsistent fuel flow
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Malfunctioning oxygen (O2) sensor (upstream, near Cylinder 3): Sends inaccurate ratio data
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Intake air leak (near Cylinder 3’s intake valve): Unmeasured air disrupts the mixture
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Damaged spark plug or ignition coil (Cylinder 3): Poor combustion leads to ratio imbalance
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Contaminated Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor: Miscalculates total incoming air volume
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Fuel pressure issues (faulty pump or regulator): Inconsistent fuel delivery to Cylinder 3
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Vacuum leaks (damaged hoses or gaskets): Disrupts air intake for Cylinder 3
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Worn valve seals or piston rings (Cylinder 3): Allows oil into the combustion chamber
Why the iCarsoft CR Ultra P Is Ideal for P219E
Not all OBD scanners can isolate cylinder-specific issues like P219E—many only detect general air-fuel imbalances. The iCarsoft CR Ultra P is a professional-grade tool designed to pinpoint Cylinder 3’s problem with precision. Here’s why it stands out:
Cylinder-Specific Diagnostics
Reads real-time data for Cylinder 3, including O2 sensor voltage, fuel injector pulse width, and ignition timing—identifying if the issue is fuel, air, or ignition-related.
One-Click Code Clearing
After fixing Cylinder 3’s imbalance, reset the Check Engine Light and clear P219E in seconds—no guesswork or complicated steps.
Sensor & Injector Testing
Offers fuel injector performance checks and O2 sensor response tests—critical for resolving P219E’s root cause.
Wide Vehicle Compatibility
Works with most OBD-II compliant cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans (1996+ US, 2000+ EU/Asian) from Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and more.
Live Data Streaming
Monitors Cylinder 3’s combustion data, air-fuel ratio, and sensor outputs in real time to verify your repair worked.
User-Friendly Design
Plug-and-play operation, large LCD screen, and step-by-step prompts—no advanced mechanical skills required.
Durable & Reliable
Built with rugged materials to withstand garage use, backed by iCarsoft’s customer support and warranty.
Real Customer Reviews: iCarsoft CR Ultra P for P219E
“My 2018 Ford Escape threw P219E and misfired every time I accelerated. The dealer quoted $300 for diagnostics plus $650 for new injectors! Bought the iCarsoft CR Ultra P, scanned it in 2 minutes, and it showed Cylinder 3’s injector was clogged. Cleaned it with injector cleaner for $12, cleared the code, and the misfire vanished. Saved $938—this tool is priceless!”
— Jake T., Michigan
“I’m a DIYer with a Toyota RAV4 that had P219E. Cheap scanners only said ‘air-fuel imbalance’—no cylinder info. The iCarsoft CR Ultra P pointed directly to Cylinder 3’s faulty ignition coil. Replaced it for $45, cleared the code, and my SUV runs smoother than ever. Super easy to use, even for someone new to cylinder-specific issues!”
— Olivia M., Arizona
“Had P219E on my Volkswagen Tiguan for weeks—dealer wanted $800 to replace all O2 sensors. The iCarsoft CR Ultra P’s live data showed a vacuum leak near Cylinder 3, not faulty sensors. Fixed the cracked hose for $18, cleared the code, and fuel efficiency is back. This tool saved me from a huge scam—highly recommend!”
— Noah K., Oregon
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About P219E & iCarsoft CR Ultra P
What exactly does OBD-II Code P219E mean?
P219E indicates an air-fuel ratio imbalance in Cylinder 3—either too rich or too lean, disrupting combustion and engine performance.
Is it safe to drive with P219E?
Short-term driving is possible, but long-term use can damage Cylinder 3’s spark plug, injector, or the catalytic converter. Fix it promptly to avoid costly repairs.
Can I clear P219E without a diagnostic tool?
Disconnecting the battery resets the Check Engine Light temporarily, but the imbalance remains. A tool like the iCarsoft CR Ultra P is needed to identify Cylinder 3’s specific issue.
Will the iCarsoft CR Ultra P work with my vehicle?
It’s compatible with most OBD-II compliant vehicles (1996+ US, 2000+ EU/Asian) including cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Check the product page for full brand/model coverage.
Do I need technical skills to use it?
No! It’s plug-and-play: connect to your vehicle’s OBD-II port (under the dashboard), turn on the ignition, and follow on-screen prompts to scan for P219E.
Will the iCarsoft CR Ultra P clear P219E permanently?
Yes—if you repair the root cause (e.g., clean/replace injector, fix vacuum leak). The tool resets the ECM, so the code won’t return if Cylinder 3’s ratio is balanced.
How much money can I save with this tool?
Professional diagnostics for P219E cost $100–$350, plus $200–$1,200 in repair fees. The iCarsoft CR Ultra P pays for itself after one use.
Where can I buy the iCarsoft CR Ultra P?
Purchase directly from the official iCarsoft website for genuine quality, worldwide shipping, and a 1-year warranty.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let P219E Ruin Cylinder 3’s Performance
OBD-II Code P219E is a targeted but fixable issue—if you have the right tool to diagnose it. The iCarsoft CR Ultra P takes the guesswork out of identifying and clearing Cylinder 3’s air-fuel imbalance, saving you time, money, and the stress of misfires or poor efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast, daily commuter, or budget-conscious driver, this tool is a must-have for protecting your engine and restoring smooth, balanced combustion.
Ready to fix P219E, stop misfires, and boost fuel efficiency? Grab the iCarsoft CR Ultra P today and take control of your vehicle’s Cylinder 3 health!
Buy iCarsoft CR Ultra P Now →
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a certified mechanic before cylinder-specific or air-fuel ratio system repairs. iCarsoft is not responsible for damage from improper tool use or engine maintenance.
