AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P21AF Chevrolet

P21AF Chevrolet Code - Reductant Level Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The reductant level/temperature sensor is a solid-state device that provides the Engine Control Module (ECM) with information on reductant level and temperature. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Level Sensor 3, Reductant Level Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Reductant Level Sensor 3 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
P21AF Chevrolet indicates Reductant Level Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Reductant Level Sensor 3, Reductant Level Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Reductant Level Sensor 3 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 409
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 10, 2021
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Code P21AF Chevrolet Description

The reductant level/temperature sensor is a solid-state device that provides the Engine Control Module (ECM) with information on reductant level and temperature. The level/temperature sensor receives system voltage directly from the underhood electrical center and ground through a chassis ground circuit. The level sensor consists of three sensing elements. Reductant level sensor 3 is highest, reductant level sensor 2 is located between sensors 1 and 3. Reductant level sensor 1 is located at a low reductant level. Reductant level sensor 3 is located at less than half the range of the DEF tank level. The scan tool will display Active when the level sensors are in contact with the reductant and Inactive when not in contact with the reductant. An integrated temperature sensor monitors reductant temperature. Reductant level and temperature signals are processed within the sensor and supplied to the ECM as serial data messages. The ECM will set a DTC when it detects an invalid level or temperature serial data message from the sensor. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM receives a serial data message from the reductant sensor module that the emission reduction fluid tank level sensor 1, 2, or 3 voltage is less than 0.17 V for greater than 3 s. A voltage within this range indicates a short to ground.
OBDII Code P21AF Chevrolet - Reductant Level Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P21AF Chevrolet Code - Reductant Level Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P21AF Chevrolet?

  • Faulty Reductant Level Sensor 3
  • Reductant Level Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted
  • Reductant Level Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P21AF Chevrolet?

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 P21AF Chevrolet 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 P21AF Chevrolet Code

1. What does OBDII code P21AF mean on a Chevrolet?

P21AF indicates a "Reductant Level Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage," meaning the vehicle's diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system is detecting an issue with the voltage signal from the third reductant level sensor.

2. What are the symptoms of code P21AF in a Chevrolet?

Common symptoms include a check engine light, DEF system warnings, reduced engine performance, or a "limp mode" condition if the issue is not resolved.

3. What causes the P21AF code to appear?

The most common causes are a faulty reductant level sensor, damaged wiring, poor electrical connections in the sensor circuit, or a failed DEF tank module.

4. Can I drive with the P21AF code active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, prolonged driving with this code can lead to reduced performance or force the vehicle into limp mode. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How is the P21AF code diagnosed?

A mechanic will typically use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and test the sensor circuit and DEF tank module for proper function.

6. What repairs are commonly needed for the P21AF code?

Repairs may include replacing the reductant level sensor, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or replacing the DEF tank module if it's defective.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P21AF code on a Chevrolet?

The repair cost can vary but typically ranges from $200 to $600, depending on whether the sensor, wiring, or DEF tank module needs replacement.

8. Can a P21AF code be caused by low DEF fluid?

No, this code specifically relates to the sensor circuit's low voltage, not the DEF fluid level. However, a low DEF level may trigger separate warnings.

9. How can I prevent the P21AF code from recurring?

Regularly inspect and maintain the DEF system, ensure proper connections, and avoid contamination or damage to the DEF tank and sensors.

10. Will clearing the P21AF code fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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