AutoCodes – Ford – P20B9 Ford

P20B9 Ford Code - Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open

Quick Answer

The reductant heater and sender assembly contain a pickup tube for the reductant pump modules, an electric heating element, a reductant temperature sensor, and an electrode type level sensor. 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 Ford indicates Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open.
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.

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Code Popularity 42,132

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 29, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P20B9 Ford Description

The reductant heater and sender assembly contain a pickup tube for the reductant pump modules, an electric heating element, a reductant temperature sensor, and an electrode type level sensor. The heating element is directly above the pickup tubes inlet filter. When the reductant temperature sensor detects the diesel exhaust fluid temperature dropping to the freezing point of 12°F (-11°C), the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will command the glow plug control module to provide voltage to the heating element. The heating element thaws liquid reductant within the reductant heater and sender assembly reservoir during cold ambient temperatures.

OBDII Code P20B9 Ford - Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open - AutoCodes.com — P20B9 Ford Code - Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20B9 Ford?

Faulty Reductant Heater
Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted
Reductant Heater circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P20B9 Ford?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P20B9 Ford 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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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 P20B9 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P20B9 in a Ford vehicle?

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

2. What does the OBDII code P20B9 Ford indicate?

- The code P20B9 indicates a problem with the Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open in the vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of the P20B9 code in a Ford vehicle?

- Possible causes include a faulty reductant heater 'A', damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. How can I diagnose the P20B9 code in my Ford vehicle?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the fault codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors in the control circuit, and testing the reductant heater 'A' for proper operation.

5. Can I continue driving my Ford vehicle with the P20B9 fault code?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle for an extended period with the P20B9 code present, as it can lead to reduced engine performance and potential emissions issues.

6. How can I repair the Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open issue in my Ford vehicle?

- Repair options may include replacing the faulty reductant heater 'A', repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the PCM to address the issue.

7. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent the P20B9 code from reoccurring?

- Regularly inspecting the emissions system components, such as the reductant heater and associated wiring, can help prevent the recurrence of the P20B9 fault code.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P20B9 code issue in a Ford vehicle?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address simple wiring or connector issues, diagnosing and repairing the reductant heater 'A' control circuit problem may require professional help.

9. How long does it typically take to repair the Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit/Open fault in a Ford vehicle?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed, but it may take a few hours to complete.

10. Is the repair for the P20B9 code covered under warranty for Ford vehicles?

- Depending on the vehicle's warranty status and the specific circumstances, the repair for the P20B9 code may be covered under the manufacturer's warranty. It is recommended to check with a Ford dealership for more information.