Bmw I3 P273D Engine Trouble Code
What is Bmw I3 P273D?
Bmw I3 P273D code can indicate a faulty oxygen sensor, which may eventually damage the catalytic converter (repair cost: $2,000–$2,200). Professional diagnosis costs around $200–$210. Oxygen sensors are often straightforward to replace — check your owner's manual for location and instructions. This issue should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
P273D on the Bmw I3
Transmission-mounted speed sensors on the Bmw I3 share a ground path with the engine control module. A corroded ground point on the transmission bell housing generates electrical noise that the ECU misinterprets as a P273D fault condition.
Code Information
| Code Type: | OBD-II Powertrain (P) Trouble Code |
| System: | Powertrain |
| Vehicle: | Bmw I3 |
| Brand: | Bmw |
| Model: | I3 |
| Code: | P273D |
P273D Bmw I3 Symptoms
Check Engine Light
Illuminated Bmw I3 dashboard warning
Engine Stalling
Engine stops unexpectedly or misfires
Performance Issues
Reduced power or acceleration on the Bmw I3
Starting Problems
Difficulty starting the engine
Poor Fuel Economy
Increased fuel consumption on the Bmw I3
Increased Emissions
Failed emissions test due to P273D
P273D Code Structure
Understanding what each digit means in the P273D powertrain trouble code:
| P | 2 | 7 | 3 | d |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain Code | Fuel And Air Metering (Injector Circuit Malfunctions Only) | Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction | Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control 'A' High | System Malfunction |
How to Fix Bmw I3 P273D
Diagnostic Steps:
Regarding P273D, carefully inspect the wire harness near the intake manifold bracket, best accessed from below near the oil filter. Look for chafing, pinching, or damaged insulation.
Repair Solution:
Brake switch circuit concerns may involve open or shorted BPP circuits, damaged switches, or misadjustment. Verify stoplight function and follow proper self-test procedures per service manual.
Technical Notes:
P273D DTC indicating a sensor fault does not always mean the sensor itself is bad. The issue may stem from the systems being monitored or even the sensor wiring. Proper diagnosis is essential.
Bmw I3 P273D Repair Cost
When P273D appears on a Bmw I3, a camshaft position sensor swap costs $140–$260 all-in. This is one of the more affordable sensors on this platform. If the wiring harness is also damaged, add $60–$90 for harness repair or section replacement.
P273D Description
P273D engine trouble code is related to System Malfunction.
Main Cause
The primary reason for P273D OBD-II Engine Trouble Code is: Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction.
Common P273D Misdiagnosis on the Bmw I3
When Bmw I3 presents P273D with a concurrent coolant temperature DTC, technicians sometimes replace the thermostat rather than the coolant temperature sensor (CTS). The CTS is a $15–$25 component; the thermostat job carries 1–2 hours of additional labour.
DIY Repair Guide: P273D on Bmw I3
The fuel pressure test on the Bmw I3 requires a Schrader-valve type fuel pressure gauge ($25–$40) connected to the fuel rail test port. With the ignition ON (engine off), pressure should hold above 30 PSI for two minutes. A rapid drop confirms a leaking injector or failing regulator as the root cause of P273D.
Preventing P273D on the Bmw I3
Spark plug replacement at the manufacturer's interval — typically 30,000–60,000 miles depending on plug type — is the single most cost-effective preventive maintenance item for avoiding P273D on the Bmw I3.
Frequently Asked Questions — Bmw I3 P273D
A: Temporarily clearing P273D can help determine whether it is intermittent or persistent, but it does not fix the underlying fault. The code will return if the problem is still present. Do not clear codes just before an emissions test without a proper drive cycle.