P20A0 Code - Reductant Purge Control Valve Circuit /Open
Quick Answer
In order to reverse the reductant flow direction (for line purge) a 4-2-way valve (reverting valve) needs to be switched. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Purge Control Valve, Reductant Purge Control Valve harness is open or shorted, Reductant Purge Control Valve 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
- P20A0 indicates Reductant Purge Control Valve Circuit /Open.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Reductant Purge Control Valve, Reductant Purge Control Valve harness is open or shorted, Reductant Purge Control Valve 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.
Code P20A0 Description
The reverting valve functional check monitors the pressure drop when the purge cycle is started. To run this test the pressure level must exceed a calibration threshold (280 kPa) at beginning of test. For a successful test result, the pressure must drop by another threshold (230 kPa) within the time.
If the test is not successfully passed the purge cycle will be terminated immediately because of the risk of uncontrolled injection of reductant into the exhaust pipe.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20A0?
- Faulty Reductant Purge Control Valve
- Reductant Purge Control Valve harness is open or shorted
- Reductant Purge Control Valve circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P20A0?
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 P20A0 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
- P20A0 Ford — Reductant Purge Control Valve Circuit Open Load
Frequently Asked Questions about P20A0 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P20A0 (Reductant Purge Control Valve Circuit/Open)?
- Common symptoms include the check engine light illuminating, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential rough engine performance.
2. What can cause OBDII code P20A0 to trigger?
- The code P20A0 can be triggered by issues such as a faulty reductant purge control valve, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).
3. How serious is OBDII code P20A0?
- While this code may not cause immediate engine failure, it can lead to reduced performance and increased emissions. It is advisable to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.
4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P20A0?
- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the code, checking the reductant purge control valve and its connectors for damage, and testing the circuit for continuity and proper voltage.
5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P20A0?
- Repair tips may include replacing the faulty reductant purge control valve, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the PCM to clear the code.
6. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code P20A0?
- While it may be possible to drive with this code present, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage to other engine components and to ensure optimal vehicle performance.
7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P20A0?
- Repair costs can vary depending on the underlying cause of the code and whether professional assistance is needed. Costs may include parts and labor for valve replacement, wiring repairs, or PCM reprogramming.
8. Can OBDII code P20A0 be cleared/reset without fixing the underlying issue?
- Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the problem will likely persist and trigger the code again in the future.
9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code P20A0?
- Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking and replacing components like the reductant purge control valve as recommended by the manufacturer, can help prevent issues that may trigger this code.
10. Will OBDII code P20A0 cause my vehicle to fail an emissions test?
- Yes, OBDII code P20A0 can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test due to increased emissions caused by the malfunctioning reductant purge control valve circuit.
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