P050BCold Start Ignition Timing Performance
- Generic OBD-II code · Powertrain
- Turns on the check-engine light
- Matters for the ITP
- Needs a drive cycle to confirm a fix
- How the car detects it
- After a cold start the engine module raises idle speed and air mass and retards the ignition so that much heat goes into the exhaust and the catalyst lights off quickly. CARB requires this cold-start strategy to be monitored with its own codes, separate from ordinary idle and ignition faults. Ford collects data during the first 15 s after a cold start (coolant and catalyst 20–100 °F) and judges after 300 s, once per trip. P050B checks the ignition part of the strategy – the retard for catalyst heating; CARB allows checking only the commanded value. Ford sets it when desired and commanded cold-start timing differ by more than 10°, for example because knock, torque or idle control take back the retard. FCA fixed P050B on the 2.0-litre turbo Wrangler of 2018–19 with software. GM has no separate monitor.
- What you may notice
- Check engine light on
- Usually no noticeable symptoms
- Catalyst warms up more slowly after a cold start
- Likely causes
- LikelyEngine module software or calibration
- PossibleIdle control takes back the retard because speed would drop (false air, dirty throttle)
- RareKnock control or knock sensor intervenes
- RareExtra load or alternator at cold start
- Inspection (ITP)
- Matters for the ITP. While the check-engine light is on, the car fails the emissions check.
- Repair
- Medium · Usually a job for a workshop.Typical cost: €0 – €250
- Related codes
Explanation from obdex (CC0), exactly as the app shows it. Guidance only; confirm with a workshop.