AutoCodesChevrolet – P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage

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
P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage.
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 342
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 P20BF 2018 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 shorted to ground or overloaded for greater than 4 s.
OBDII Code P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BF 2018 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 P20BF 2018 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 P20BF 2018 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 P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code?

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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 P20BF 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does the OBDII code P20BF mean for a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

P20BF indicates a problem with the Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit, specifically low voltage detected, which impacts the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system.

What are common symptoms of code P20BF in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, DEF system warnings, reduced engine power, and difficulty starting in cold weather.

What causes the P20BF code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty reductant heater, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, or a malfunctioning reductant heater control module.

Can driving with code P20BF damage my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

While the vehicle may still operate, prolonged driving with this code could lead to DEF system issues and reduced emissions system efficiency.

How can I diagnose the P20BF code?

Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors for damage, use a multimeter to test for proper voltage, and check the reductant heater for functionality.

What is the function of the reductant heater in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The reductant heater prevents diesel exhaust fluid from freezing in cold temperatures, ensuring proper operation of the DEF system.

How do I fix code P20BF on my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may involve replacing the reductant heater, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or addressing issues with the control module.

Is code P20BF covered under warranty for a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Depending on the vehicle's warranty and mileage, emissions-related components like the reductant heater may be covered. Check with your dealership for details.

How much does it cost to repair the P20BF code?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $200 to $600, depending on whether the reductant heater or related wiring needs replacement.

Can cold weather trigger code P20BF?

Yes, cold weather can exacerbate issues with the reductant heater, especially if it is failing or the circuit has low voltage.

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