96 Acura TL 3.2L P1205 Code: Injector Circuit Issue After Head Gasket Repair
I recently purchased a 1996 Acura TL with a 3.2L engine that previously had a blown head gasket. I replaced the head gaskets and had the heads professionally machined with a valve job. The car ran well initially, but the check engine light eventually came on. At first, code P1201 appeared — I reset it. Then, code P1205 showed up. After resetting again, multiple P12XX codes (P1201 through P1205) and a P1300 code were triggered, though not P1204. I then performed a coil and plug swap (even though the plugs were new), which did not resolve the issue. After several resets and driving over 200 miles, only P1205 remained. I repeated the coil/plug swaps — the code stayed with cylinder #5. The car runs fine now, but the P1205 code returns after just 10 miles of driving. I’ve already replaced all six fuel injectors, yet the issue persists. I’m now wondering if the problem lies in the injector harness wiring or possibly a faulty ECM. Any advice on how to diagnose this further would be greatly appreciated.
P1205 indicates an open or shorted injector circuit for cylinder #5. If you have access to a noid light, test the injector wiring for blinking pulses when cranking the engine. Without a noid light, use a screwdriver against your ear and listen for clicking sounds during crank cycles. However, given the presence of multiple P12XX codes, begin by inspecting the injector harness for damage or loose connections.