AutoCodes – Generic – P205E

P205E Code - Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

Quick Answer

The Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor is a variable resistor used to measure the temperature inside the reductant tank. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor, Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Reductant Tank Temperature 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: P205E indicates Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor, Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Reductant Tank Temperature 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 5,919

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 21, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P205E Description

The Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor is a variable resistor used to measure the temperature inside the reductant tank. The sensor is wired to the Reductant Control Module, which acquires the sensor signal and sends it to the Engine Control Module (ECM) via serial data. The Reductant Control Module supplies 5 V to the reductant temperature sensor signal circuit and a ground for the low reference circuit. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the difference between reductant temperature sensor signal and exhaust gas temperature sensor signals is outside a calibrated range.

OBDII Code P205E - Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic - AutoCodes.com — P205E Code - Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P205E?

Faulty Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor
Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P205E?

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 P205E 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 P205E code?

Need more information on how to fix the P205E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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Information for Specific Makes

P205E Audi — Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
P205E Chevrolet — Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
P205E Dodge — Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
P205E Ford — Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
P205E GMC — Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
P205E Volkswagen — Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

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 P205E Code

1. What does the OBDII code P205E mean?

P205E indicates an intermittent or erratic issue with the reductant tank temperature sensor circuit, which monitors the temperature of the DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) in the tank.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P205E code?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced engine performance, DEF system warnings, and potential activation of limp mode.

3. What causes the P205E code to appear?

Common causes include faulty reductant tank temperature sensors, wiring or connector issues, corroded electrical connections, or a malfunctioning DEF control module.

4. Can the P205E code affect my vehicle’s drivability?

Yes, it can lead to reduced engine performance, activation of limp mode, or DEF system restrictions if not addressed promptly.

5. How can I diagnose the P205E code?

Diagnosis involves checking the temperature sensor, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the DEF control module for proper functionality.

6. Can I continue driving with a P205E code?

While you may be able to drive, prolonged operation without addressing the issue could lead to reduced performance or damage to the emission system.

7. How do I fix the P205E code?

Repairs may include replacing the reductant tank temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the DEF control module.

8. Is the P205E code covered under warranty?

It depends on your vehicle’s warranty and mileage, but emissions-related components like the DEF system may be covered under federal emissions warranties.

9. How much does it cost to fix a P205E code?

Repair costs can vary widely, ranging from $100 for a DIY wiring repair to $500 or more if the temperature sensor or control module needs replacement.

10. Can a P205E code clear itself?

The code may disappear temporarily if the issue is intermittent, but it’s likely to return unless the underlying problem is resolved.