AutoCodes – RAM – P2257 RAM

P2257 RAM Code - Secondary Air Injection System Control 'A' Circuit Low

Quick Answer

An Air Pump is used on the vehicle to lower tail pipe emissions on start-up. Common causes include Faulty Secondary Air System Relay, Secondary Air System Relay harness is open or shorted, Secondary Air System Relay 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: P2257 RAM indicates Secondary Air Injection System Control 'A' Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Secondary Air System Relay, Secondary Air System Relay harness is open or shorted, Secondary Air System Relay 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 398

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 25, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2257 RAM Description

An Air Pump is used on the vehicle to lower tail pipe emissions on start-up. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) grounds the Air Pump Relay Control Circuit which energizes the Air Pump. The PCM also grounds the Air Combination Valve Vacuum Control Solenoid Circuit, which energizes the Air Vacuum Control Solenoid. Vacuum is then applied to both Air Combination Valve Diaphragms which opens the shut-off valves. The PCM enables both circuits simultaneously when Air System operation is desired. When the Air System is active, then Air pump forces fresh air into the exhaust stream in order to accelerate catalyst operation. The AIR combination valves replace the conventional check valves. When the AIR system is inactive the shut-off valves prevent air flow in either direction.

OBDII Code P2257 RAM - Secondary Air Injection System Control 'A' Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P2257 RAM Code - Secondary Air Injection System Control 'A' Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2257 RAM?

Faulty Secondary Air System Relay
Secondary Air System Relay harness is open or shorted
Secondary Air System Relay circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Secondary Air System Pump

How to Fix the DTC P2257 RAM?

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 P2257 RAM 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 P2257 RAM Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2257 mean for a RAM vehicle?

P2257 indicates that the Secondary Air Injection System Control 'A' Circuit is experiencing a low voltage or signal issue in your RAM vehicle.

2. What are the symptoms of the P2257 code in a RAM vehicle?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced engine performance, failed emissions tests, and in some cases, rough idling.

3. What causes the P2257 code in a RAM?

Common causes include a faulty secondary air injection pump, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, a failed relay, or a malfunctioning control module.

4. Can I drive my RAM with the P2257 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, prolonged operation with this code can lead to increased emissions and potential damage to the emissions system.

5. How can I diagnose the P2257 code in a RAM?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the secondary air injection system components, checking for damaged wiring or connectors, testing the air pump relay, and using a multimeter to measure circuit voltage.

6. How do I fix the P2257 code on a RAM vehicle?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty air injection pump, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing a failed relay, or reprogramming/updating the control module if necessary.

7. What tools are needed to fix the P2257 code?

You may need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter, basic hand tools, and potentially a wiring diagram specific to your RAM model for troubleshooting.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P2257 code on a RAM vehicle?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $500 depending on the specific issue, such as replacing parts like the air injection pump or repairing electrical components.

9. Can a dirty air injection system cause the P2257 code?

Yes, debris or carbon buildup in the air injection system can restrict airflow and trigger this code.

10. Does the P2257 code affect emissions testing?

Yes, the P2257 code can cause your RAM to fail an emissions test since the secondary air injection system is critical for reducing emissions during cold starts.