OBD-II Code P201F – Reductant Pump A Stuck On: What it Means and How to Fix It
If you’ve ever seen the check engine light illuminate on your dashboard, you know how nerve-wracking it can be. This warning light is an indication that something is wrong with your vehicle, and it could be a simple or complex issue. In most cases, the light indicates that your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic (OBD) system has detected an issue with the emissions control system. One such code is OBD-II code P201F — reductant pump A stuck on. In this article, we’ll discuss what this code means and how to fix it.
What is OBD-II Code P201F?
OBD-II code P201F means that the reductant pump A is stuck on. The reductant pump is a critical component of the emissions control system that injects a urea-based solution called diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) into the exhaust system to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The pump is controlled by the engine control module (ECM) through a relay, and it runs periodically as needed to maintain the correct level of DEF in the system.
When the OBD-II detects that the reductant pump A is stuck on, it means that the ECM has commanded the pump to turn off, but it continues running. This could be due to a malfunctioning relay, wiring issues, a faulty pump, or a problem with the ECM itself.
What are the Symptoms of OBD-II Code P201F?
In most cases, you may not notice any significant symptoms with OBD-II code P201F. However, in some cases, you may experience the following:
1. The check engine light will illuminate on the dashboard.
2. Reduced fuel economy.
3. Decreased engine performance.
4. The engine may misfire.
5. Your vehicle may fail an emissions test.
How to Diagnose OBD-II Code P201F
Diagnosing OBD-II code P201F is a relatively straightforward process that involves:
Step 1: Scan the Vehicle’s Computer
If your check engine light comes on, the first step is to scan the vehicle’s computer system using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the fault codes. Once you have the codes, you can use them to diagnose the issue in your vehicle.
Step 2: Inspect the Reductant Pump Relay
The next step is to inspect the reductant pump relay to ensure it’s functioning correctly. The relay can be found in the fuse box under the hood of your vehicle and is generally labeled.
Step 3: Check the Wiring
After inspecting the relay, the next step is to check the wiring. Ensure that all the connections are secure and that there are no physical damages to the wires.
Step 4: Check the Reductant Pump
If everything looks fine, the reductant pump may be faulty. The pump is also located under the hood of the vehicle and may need to be removed for proper inspection. If the pump fails to work, it needs to be replaced as needed.
How to Fix OBD-II Code P201F
Fixing the OBD-II code P201F involves several steps, depending on the root cause of the issue. Here are some of the steps:
1. Replace the Reductant Pump Relay
If the reductant pump relay is faulty, it needs to be replaced. It’s relatively easy to replace. You only need to remove the old one and install a new relay in its place.
2. Replace the Wiring
If you find any damaged wiring, it should be replaced by a licensed mechanic. Faulty wiring can cause electrical faults that can cause other issues in your vehicle.
3. Replace the Reductant Pump
If the pump is faulty, it needs to be replaced. This is a relatively straightforward process that involves removing the faulty one out of the system and replacing it with a new pump.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I drive my vehicle with OBD-II code P201F?
You can still drive your car with this code, but it’s not advisable. The check engine light signifying an issue is on, and it’s important to address it as soon as possible.
2. What can cause OBD-II code P201F?
Several reasons could cause OBD-II code P201F, including a faulty relay, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning pump.
3. Why is it important to fix OBD-II code P201F?
Fixing OBD-II code P201F is crucial as it affects your vehicle’s emissions and, in some countries, will impede your ability to pass emission tests
4. How much does it Cost to Fix OBD-II code P201F?
The cost of fixing OBD-II code P201F varies depending on your car’s make and model and the extent of the damage. However, the cost ranges anywhere from $100 to $500.
5. Can I fix OBD-II code P201F myself?
It is advisable to seek a licensed mechanic to fix the OBD-II code P201F. However, if you are experienced in vehicle repairs and have the correct tools, you can fix it yourself.
Conclusion
OBD-II code P201F indicates a malfunction in the reductant pump A that injects DEF into the exhaust system. To fix this issue, performing a thorough diagnostic test is critical to finding the root cause of the problem. Once the root cause is identified, it is relatively straightforward to fix the issue. If you are unsure how to fix it, it is essential to seek the services of a licensed mechanic to avoid causing further damage.