AutoCodesGeneric – P208A

P208A Code - Reductant Pump Control Circuit Open

Quick Answer

The reductant pump assembly contains a diaphragm pressure pump, a pressure sensor, a purge valve, an outlet filter and an internal heating element. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Pump, Reductant Pump harness is open or shorted, Reductant Pump 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
P208A indicates Reductant Pump Control Circuit Open.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Reductant Pump, Reductant Pump harness is open or shorted, Reductant Pump 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 52,287
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 27, 2023
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Code P208A Description

The reductant pump assembly contains a diaphragm pressure pump, a pressure sensor, a purge valve, an outlet filter and an internal heating element. The reductant pressure sensor provides feedback to Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which regulates system pressure by controlling pump speed using pulse width modulation. When PCM requests reductant injection, the reductant injector opens and the pump operates, filling reductant pressure line and injector and purging air from the system. When all air is purged, injector closes and pump builds pressure to 73 psi. (500 kPa). The system is then primed and injector provides DEF to the SCR catalyst as determined by PCM.
When the vehicle is shut down, PCM closes injector and actuates reductant purge valve, causing the pump to reverse flow and bleed down pressure on reductant pressure line. The PCM then opens injector to allow gas to enter reductant pressure line, which in turn allows the pump to purge all remaining DEF from the system and return it to reductant tank. The PCM closes injector and returns purge valve to forward position. The PCM commands glow plug control module to provide voltage to reductant pump assembly internal heating element when reductant temperature approaches 12°F (-11°C).
OBDII Code P208A - Reductant Pump Control Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com
P208A Code - Reductant Pump Control Circuit Open

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P208A?

  • Faulty Reductant Pump
  • Reductant Pump harness is open or shorted
  • Reductant Pump circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P208A?

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 P208A 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.

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Information for Specific Makes

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 P208A Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P208A (Reductant Pump Control Circuit Open)?

- Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with the vehicle's emissions system.

2. What does the OBDII code P208A indicate?

- This code indicates a problem with the reductant pump control circuit being open, meaning there is an interruption in the electrical connection to the reductant pump.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P208A?

- Possible causes can include a faulty reductant pump, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P208A?

- Diagnosing this code typically involves checking the reductant pump, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and using a scan tool to analyze the PCM data for any anomalies.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P208A present?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with this code present, as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the vehicle's emissions system.

6. Can OBDII code P208A be repaired at home?

- Depending on the cause of the code, some repairs may be possible at home, such as replacing damaged wiring or connectors. However, diagnosing and repairing issues with the reductant pump itself may require professional assistance.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P208A?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the cause of the code and the extent of the repairs needed. It is recommended to obtain quotes from automotive professionals for an accurate estimate.

8. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code P208A?

- DIY troubleshooting tips include checking the reductant pump fuse, inspecting the wiring for visible damage, and ensuring all connections are secure before seeking professional help.

9. Can a faulty reductant pump cause OBDII code P208A?

- Yes, a faulty reductant pump is a common cause of this code, as it can lead to issues with the control circuit being open and interrupting the pump's operation.

10. How urgent is it to address OBDII code P208A?

- It is recommended to address this code promptly to prevent potential damage to the vehicle's emissions system and ensure optimal engine performance.

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