P208B Code: Reductant Pump Control Range / Performance

Do you think your vehicle has issues that you’re not seeing? A great way to check is by hooking up a scan tool to your vehicle and seeing if it has any stored trouble codes. If the P208B code has been stored, this article will tell everything you need to know about its definition and common causes and symptoms.

What Does the P208B Code Mean?

The P208B code is defined as Reductant Pump Control Range/Performance. The P208B code is triggered when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects that a part called the reductant pump fails to function as it should. The reductant pump is a component that pumps diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) into the exhaust system to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The reductant pump also helps burn off exhaust particles since the DEF heats up the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which collects and burns off exhaust particles such as soot.

Note: The definition of the P208B code can be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P208B Code?

The common causes of issues that trigger the P208B code include:

• Reductant Pump Failure
• Wiring Issue
• PCM Failure

What are the Common Symptoms of the P208B Code?

A triggered P208B code can result in your DPF not regenerating. If your DPF doesn’t regenerate, then your vehicle might show the following symptoms:

• Decreased engine performance
• Poor fuel efficiency
• Trouble starting
• Strange smells
• Check engine light

How to Diagnose the P208B Code

If the P208B code has been triggered, then you need to find the main problem causing the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) before you make any repairs. The P208B code might have a list of common causes, but you shouldn’t automatically assume that your vehicle has those issues.

Diagnosing DTCs typically involves doing visual inspections and perhaps even tests on specific components. This task might require a lot of technical knowledge and specialized tools. If you think this is too daunting, then you should leave it to a professional mechanic.

How to Fix the P208B Code

Want to fix the problems causing the P208B code to trigger? Unfortunately, there isn’t a single cure-all. Repair procedures can vary greatly between different vehicle makes and models.

The best way to fix the P208B code is to first get an accurate diagnosis. You should only start doing repairs once you’ve identified the main problem. Otherwise, you might fix a perfectly functioning component. You can look at reputable internet repair resources and how-to guides when you find the main problem. Also, check your owner’s manual because it might have important information regarding your vehicle’s problem.

If you don’t have much experience diagnosing or fixing error codes, you should consult a professional mechanic.