AutoCodesChevrolet – P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 2 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
P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Reductant Heater 2 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.
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Code Popularity 319
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 29, 2022
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Code P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

As reductant will freeze at temperatures below -11°C (12°F), there are 2 reductant heaters located in the reductant tank. One heats the reductant in the tank, and one heats the reductant supplied to the reductant injector supply pipe. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the reductant temperature in the tank in order to determine if the reductant temperature is below its freeze point. If the ECM determines that the reductant may be frozen, it activates a "defrost strategy" energizing the reductant eater. This energizing action terminates when the temperature sensor measures a threshold value over which the heater must be deactivated.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM indicates the reductant line heater control circuit is open for greater than 4 s.
OBDII Code P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BD 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 P20BD 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 P20BD 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 P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P20BD 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does OBDII code P20BD on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicate?

The P20BD code specifically refers to a fault in the Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit of the vehicle's emissions system.

2. What are common symptoms of a P20BD fault in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common symptoms include the illumination of the Check Engine Light, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with the vehicle passing emissions tests.

3. What are possible causes of the P20BD code in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Potential causes may include a faulty reductant heater, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, or issues with the powertrain control module.

4. How can I diagnose a P20BD fault in my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code and then conducting further testing to pinpoint the exact cause, such as checking the wiring, connectors, and components related to the Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit.

5. Can I continue driving my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with a P20BD fault code?

While the vehicle may still be operable with this fault, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage to the emissions system and ensure optimal engine performance.

6. How can I repair a P20BD fault in my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair methods may include replacing the faulty reductant heater, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, resetting the fault code with an OBDII scanner, and verifying proper operation of the system.

7. Is it possible to clear the P20BD code in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue?

While it is possible to clear the fault code temporarily, the Check Engine Light is likely to reappear if the root cause of the P20BD code is not addressed.

8. Are there any preventative maintenance steps to avoid the P20BD fault in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Regularly servicing the emissions system, keeping up with scheduled maintenance, and addressing any related warning signs promptly can help prevent the occurrence of the P20BD fault code.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast resolve a P20BD fault in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and address a P20BD fault themselves, although complex repairs may require professional assistance.

10. How long does it typically take to repair a P20BD fault in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the fault, but it may take anywhere from a few hours to a day to diagnose, repair, and verify the resolution of the P20BD fault in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado.

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