AutoCodesFord – P20C2 Ford

P20C2 Ford Code - Reductant Heater 'C' Control Performance

Quick Answer

The reductant heater and sender assembly contains pickup tube for reductant pump module, 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
P20C2 Ford indicates Reductant Heater 'C' Control Performance.
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 23,185
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P20C2 Ford Description

The reductant heater and sender assembly contains pickup tube for reductant pump module, an electric heating element, a reductant temperature sensor and an electrode type level sensor. The heating element is directly above pickup tubes inlet filter. When 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 heating element. The heating element thaws liquid reductant within reductant heater and sender assembly reservoir during cold ambient temperatures.
OBDII Code P20C2 Ford - Reductant Heater 'C' Control Performance - AutoCodes.com
P20C2 Ford Code - Reductant Heater 'C' Control Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20C2 Ford?

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

How to Fix the DTC P20C2 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P20C2 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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Need Help with the 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 P20C2 Ford Code

1. What does the OBDII code P20C2 mean for a Ford vehicle?

P20C2 indicates a problem with the "Reductant Heater 'C' Control Performance," which is part of the DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) system responsible for heating the fluid to maintain proper operation.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P20C2 on a Ford?

Symptoms include a check engine light, trouble with DEF system operation, reduced engine power, and potential issues with emissions system efficiency.

3. What causes the P20C2 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty reductant heater, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning control module, or insufficient power supply to the heater.

4. Can driving with code P20C2 damage my Ford vehicle?

While the car may still be drivable, prolonged operation with this code can lead to reduced engine performance and higher emissions, potentially causing long-term damage to the emissions system.

5. How is the P20C2 code diagnosed?

A mechanic typically uses an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspects the reductant heater and wiring, and checks for proper voltage and resistance levels.

6. How do you fix code P20C2 on a Ford?

Repairs may include replacing the reductant heater, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the control module if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P20C2 code?

Costs vary depending on the specific issue but can range from $100 to $600, depending on whether the heater, wiring, or module needs replacement or repair.

8. Can I reset the P20C2 code without fixing the issue?

While you can clear the code temporarily, it will likely return unless the underlying problem with the reductant heater or related components is addressed.

9. What tools are needed to diagnose and repair the P20C2 code?

Diagnosis typically requires an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical circuits, and basic tools for accessing and inspecting the DEF system components.

10. Is the P20C2 code specific to Ford vehicles?

No, this code can appear on other diesel vehicles equipped with DEF systems, but the repair process may vary depending on the make and model.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P20C2 Ford OBDII Code

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