AutoCodes – Generic – P2206

P2206 Code - NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P2206 indicates NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 11,230

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 29, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2206 Description

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. There are two NOx sensors, one placed upstream of selective catalytic reduction, to measure inlet NOx concentration, and one placed downstream. They are connected with the control module via CAN and all the information is exchanged through it. Since it is a smart sensor, all the electrical monitoring is performed inside the sensor and only the results are sent to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Each NOx sensor contains a sensing cell, a pumping cell, and a heater. A sample of exhaust gas passes through a diffusion gap between the sensing cell and the pumping cell. The NOx sensor maintains a constant reference voltage across the sensing cell. An electronic circuit within sensor controls the pump current through the pumping cell in order to maintain a constant voltage in the sensing cell. The amount of current required to maintain the reference voltage in the sensing cell is proportional to the concentration of NOx in the exhaust. The ECM varies the amount of diesel exhaust fluid (reductant) added by varying the reductant injector duty cycle in response to changes in engine exhaust NOx levels. The smart NOx sensors consist of two components, the NOx module and the NOx sensor element that are serviced as a unit. A circuit or performance condition with a NOx sensor is detected by the NOx sensor module. The smart NOx sensor module communicates the condition to the ECM over the serial data line. The ECM sets a DTC when a serial data message is received from the NOx sensor module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM software detects a fault in the NOx sensor circuitry or a performance fault in the NOx sensor for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P2206 - NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P2206 Code - NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2206?

Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P2206?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2206 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P2206 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2206 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2206 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P2206 Buick — NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage
P2206 Cadillac — NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage
P2206 Chevrolet — NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage
P2206 Dodge — NOx Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1
P2206 Ford — NOx Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1
P2206 GMC — NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P2206 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

The common symptoms include the illumination of the check engine light, poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential failure to pass emissions tests.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

Possible causes include a faulty NOx sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a malfunctioning heater control circuit, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspecting the NOx sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and checking the heater control circuit for proper voltage.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage) present?

It is not recommended to continue driving with this code present, as it can lead to further damage to the vehicle and may cause it to fail emissions tests. It is best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

Repair options may include replacing the NOx sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, addressing issues with the heater control circuit, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage) make it go away permanently?

Simply resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to return. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, the extent of the damage, and whether professional labor is required. Generally, expect costs for parts and labor to range from $200 to $800.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage) at home?

Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this code at home. However, complex electrical issues or sensor replacements may require professional expertise.

9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking and replacing sensors as recommended by the manufacturer, can help prevent issues like OBDII code P2206. Additionally, avoiding rough driving and extreme conditions may prolong sensor life.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P2206 (NOx Sensor 1 Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage)?

The repair time can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, availability of parts, and the expertise of the technician. In general, repairs for this code can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to complete.