P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit
Quick Answer
As reductant will freeze at temperatures below -11°C (12°F), there are 2 reductant heaters located in the reductant tank. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Heater, Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted, Reductant Heater 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
- P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Reductant Heater, Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted, Reductant Heater 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 P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM indicates the reductant tank heater control circuit is open for greater than 4 s.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
- Faulty Reductant Heater
- Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted
- Reductant Heater circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Reductant Pump and Sensor Assembly
- Faulty Reductant Control Module
How to Fix the DTC P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
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 P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?
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Frequently Asked Questions about P20B9 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code
What does the OBDII code P20B9 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The P20B9 code indicates an issue with the Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit, which is responsible for heating the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to prevent it from freezing in cold temperatures.
What are the common symptoms of the P20B9 code?
Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, DEF warning messages on the dashboard, poor DEF system performance, and potential issues with emissions compliance.
What causes the P20B9 code to appear in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Common causes include a faulty reductant heater, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning DEF control module.
Can I drive my 2016 Silverado with the P20B9 code?
While the truck may still be drivable, ignoring the P20B9 code can lead to reduced emissions performance and potentially cause the DEF system to freeze in cold weather.
How do you diagnose the P20B9 code?
Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to check for related codes, visually inspecting the wiring and connectors, testing the reductant heater for proper resistance, and checking the fuse and control module.
What is the role of the reductant heater in the DEF system?
The reductant heater prevents the DEF fluid from freezing in cold temperatures, ensuring proper flow and function of the emissions system.
How much does it cost to repair the P20B9 code?
Repair costs can vary but typically range from $200 to $600, depending on whether the reductant heater or wiring requires replacement.
Can a bad reductant heater cause other issues besides the P20B9 code?
Yes, a faulty reductant heater can lead to additional DEF-related codes, emissions system problems, and freezing of DEF fluid in cold climates.
Is the reductant heater covered under warranty for a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The reductant heater may be covered under the emissions or powertrain warranty, but coverage depends on your truck's mileage and warranty terms.
What tools are needed to fix the P20B9 code?
You’ll need a scan tool for diagnostics, a multimeter to test electrical components, and standard tools to replace the reductant heater or repair wiring.
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