P20BC Dodge Code - Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit High
Quick Answer
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Heaters via datalink communication with the Diesel Exhaust Fluid Dosing Control Unit (DEF DCU - sometimes referred to as the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) Module). Common causes include Faulty Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Pressure Line heater, DEF Pressure Line heater harness is open or shorted, DEF Pressure Line 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
- P20BC Dodge indicates Reductant Heater 'A' Control Circuit High.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Pressure Line heater, DEF Pressure Line heater harness is open or shorted, DEF Pressure Line 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 P20BC Dodge Description
Activation of the DEF Supply Line and DEF Tank Heaters operate independently of each other. Line heating is based on the Ambient Temperature Sensor input and Tank heating is based on the DEF Tank Temperature Sensor value. Heating of the Line or Tank Heater is initiated when the corresponding temperature value is below -5°C (23°F). Heating stops when the corresponding temperature value goes above -4°C (24.8°F). The DEF Dosing Control Unit monitors these inputs and reports them to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM will illuminate the MIL lamp after this diagnostic runs and fails. The PCM will turn off the MIL light when the monitor runs and passes in three consecutive key cycles. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the DEF Dosing Control Unit detects that the DEF Pressure Line heater circuit voltage is above a calibrated threshold when one or both of the monitor run.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BC Dodge?
- Faulty Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Pressure Line heater
- DEF Pressure Line heater harness is open or shorted
- DEF Pressure Line heater circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Diesel Exhaust Fluid Dosing Control Unit (DEF DCU)
How to Fix the DTC P20BC Dodge?
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 P20BC Dodge 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P20BC Dodge Code
What does the OBDII code P20BC mean on a Dodge vehicle?
The P20BC code indicates a high voltage issue in the control circuit for Reductant Heater 'A,' which is responsible for heating the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to ensure proper operation.
What are the common symptoms of the P20BC code on a Dodge?
Symptoms may include a check engine light, reduced engine performance, trouble starting in cold weather, and issues with DEF system functionality.
What causes the P20BC code on a Dodge vehicle?
Common causes include a faulty DEF heater, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater control circuit, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).
Can the P20BC code cause drivability issues?
Yes, this code may result in reduced engine power or restricted vehicle performance, especially if the DEF system is not functioning properly.
How do you diagnose the P20BC code on a Dodge vehicle?
Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the DEF heater and its wiring for damage, checking circuit voltages, and using a scan tool to monitor PCM signals.
Is it safe to drive with the P20BC code on a Dodge?
Driving with this code may be possible in the short term, but long-term operation can lead to DEF system failure, reduced performance, or emissions non-compliance.
How do you fix the P20BC code on a Dodge vehicle?
Repairs may include replacing the DEF heater, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.
How much does it cost to repair the P20BC code on a Dodge?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $200 to $600, depending on whether the DEF heater needs replacement or if wiring repairs are required.
Can a faulty DEF heater trigger the P20BC code?
Yes, a faulty DEF heater is one of the primary causes of this code, as it can prevent the proper operation of the Reductant Heater 'A' control circuit.
Can the P20BC code affect emissions compliance?
Yes, since the DEF system is critical for reducing emissions, this code can lead to the vehicle failing emissions tests or producing higher pollutant levels.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P20BC Dodge OBDII Code
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