Powertrain, generic · Vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs
P050D Cold Start Rough Idle
Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo
GM's direct-injection petrol engines (from about 2016) split the injection into two pulses and retard the ignition after a cold start to heat the catalyst. P050D counts engine cycles with incomplete combustion via the crankshaft misfire detection during this strategy; if the rate reaches the catalyst-damaging misfire threshold, the code sets – once per trip, while the strategy is active (under 45 s running, coolant up to 66 °C). Mostly MIL after two trips, some calibrations without MIL. Ford and FCA do not use P050D.
Likely causes
Injector with poor spray pattern or deposits, or injector circuit fault
Spark plug or ignition coil weak
Engine module software or calibration
Poor fuel or low fuel pressure
Symptoms
- Check engine light on (depending on calibration)
- Rough idle or jerking in the first seconds after a cold start
- Usually unremarkable when warm
Repair estimate
DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–800
Time0.5–3 h
Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.
Parts involved
fuel injectorsignition coilscold start strategyengine control module
Related codes
References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, static.nhtsa.gov.