Diesel-powered engines are equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that uses Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. When there are problems with the SCR system, it can trigger the P2001 code or other related trouble codes. You should use a scan tool to check if your vehicle has stored these codes, as they can help you diagnose the issue.
What Does the P2001 Code Mean?
The P2001 code is defined as NOx Adsorber Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2. The powertrain control module triggers the P2001 code when it detects that the SCR system isn’t performing its job properly. This code can be triggered when your vehicle’s nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensors detect higher levels of NOx in the exhaust. This code indicates that this problem is present in engine bank #2.
Note: The definition of the P2001 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 P2001 Code?
The P2001 code is typically triggered when your vehicle has the following problems:
- Faulty oxygen sensor or NOx sensor
- Bad or overloaded NOx adsorber catalyst
- Faulty mass air flow sensor
- Exhaust or intake leaks
- Circuit issues, such as a damaged wire or poor connection
- A PCM issue, such as software in need of an update
What are the Common Symptoms of the P2001 Code?
Common symptoms associated with code P2001 include the following:
How to Diagnose the P2001 code
If the P2001 code has been triggered, then you need to identify the cause of the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) before you make any repairs. You shouldn’t automatically assume that your vehicle has the same problems as the common causes of the P2001 code.
Diagnosing DTCs typically involves doing visual inspections and perhaps even tests on some components. This task can require technical knowledge and specialized tools. If you think this is daunting, then you should leave it to a professional mechanic.
How to Fix the P2001 Code
Want to solve the problems triggering the P2001 code? Unfortunately, there isn’t a single procedure that will guarantee a fix. There’s a chance that your vehicle might not experience any reliability or drivability symptoms with this trouble code. However, this shouldn’t stop you from fixing this DTC, especially considering that your vehicle will produce more emissions and pollution when this problem persists. We recommended that you fix the issues triggering this code to prevent any future problems.
Your course of action will depend on the diagnosis. That’s why getting an accurate diagnosis is important. Once you’ve found the root cause, you can start looking at reputable internet repair resources and how-to guides for possible solutions. Also, make sure to check your owner’s manual because it might have important information regarding your problem.
If you don’t have much experience diagnosing or fixing error codes, then you should consult a professional mechanic.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.