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DTC P2002

31.08.2024
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P2002
Vehicle engine and/or automatic transmission
Code: P2002 - Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1

If you do not drive a diesel-powered vehicle, you are unlikely to encounter the P2002 code on your OBD-II scanner. However, for those who do (owners of Renault, Kia, Skoda, Nissan, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Chery, Audi), this code is an indicator of a malfunction generated by the ECM (engine control module) when an issue with the exhaust particulate filter is detected according to SAE standards. If changes in exhaust backpressure exceed the manufacturer’s specified limits, the fault code is triggered for bank 1 if the issue occurs in one set of cylinders, and for bank 2 if the problem is detected in the opposite set.

Causes of OBD P2002

Exhaust system issues can have various causes, but the P2002 fault code typically helps identify one of the following:

  • Damage or blockage of the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
  • Damage or malfunction of the backpressure sensor on bank 1.
  • Presence of an exhaust system leak on bank 1.
  • Use of low-quality diesel fuel.

Symptoms of P2002 Error

The issue with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) primarily relates to emission control. Most drivers will only notice the check engine light or DPF indicator on the dashboard, signaling the presence of fault codes. In rare cases, the engine may idle poorly, or black smoke may be emitted from the exhaust pipe, but this is uncommon. In most situations, you may not even be aware of the problem unless the indicator activates.

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How to Diagnose DTC P2002?

Fixing this code can be relatively simple, especially if you are confident in your automotive repair skills. Here are the steps you can take to determine the cause of the P2002 code:

  • Start with a thorough visual inspection of all related wiring harnesses leading to the backpressure sensor and around the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Most often, damaged connectors and wiring can be the primary cause of the issue, so checking them first is essential.
  • If the wiring appears intact, remove the DPF and inspect the exhaust backpressure sensor. Ensure that none of the components are damaged or excessively dirty. Sometimes, cleaning the sensor can resolve the issue, so it is worth trying this before replacing any parts.
  • Connect an OBD-II scanner and perform a test drive while monitoring the backpressure sensor readings. If the readings for bank 1 differ from those for bank 2, additional troubleshooting may be needed to determine whether the filter or the sensor requires replacement. If both components have been cleaned and the problem persists, the issue is likely with the sensor itself rather than the filter.
dtc p2002

Common Mistakes When Dealing with OBD Code P2002

Checking the quality of diesel fuel is a key aspect that is often overlooked but can be a cause of the P2002 fault code. It is worth testing the vehicle at highway speeds to attempt to clear carbon buildup or other particles from the exhaust filter and see if the code disappears. Sometimes, a high-speed test drive can resolve the issue for you.

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How Serious is the P2002 Error?

If the fault code remains in the ECM for an extended period, it may trigger what is known as "limp mode." In this mode, the ECM will limit both the maximum speed and engine power to protect the internal transmission components. The only way to exit this mode is to fix the root cause of the fault code and reset the ECM.

What Repairs Can Fix the P2002 Code?

Most of these issues can be resolved quickly and easily. Here are the most common solutions:

  • Cleaning the diesel particulate filter (a simple and almost cost-free method).
  • Replacing the diesel fuel (cost may be high depending on the amount of poor-quality fuel that needs to be replaced).
  • Replacing the diesel particulate filter (not very expensive and can be done independently).
  • Replacing the backpressure sensor (requires higher costs and more advanced repair skills than replacing the filter).

Conclusion

This is not a very serious issue for your diesel vehicle, but it should not be ignored for an extended period. If you are capable of retrieving and clearing codes yourself, try first checking the wiring, filter, and sensor.

If these tasks are not for you, visit a repair shop and have a specialist assess the problem. Before doing so, take your vehicle for a highway drive to ensure the issue is not simply due to carbon buildup in the exhaust system. This can save you considerable time and effort.

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OBD P2002 code analysis and solutions

The page presents a in-depth analysis of code P2002 for Opel, Renault, VW (Volkswagen), Ford, Peugeot, Mitsubishi, Skoda, BMW, Citroën, Toyota, Lada, Honda, Kia, and other models to investigate probable causes and solutions related to obd 2 errors, with main attention on the issue. We offer technical descriptions and approaches for diagnostics to identify and clarify the matter effectively. Our resource is designed to be a comprehensive source of information on OBD 2 errors, providing you with the necessary tools for successful repair and maintenance of your automobile. If during the repair of OBD 2 errors you need to purchase parts, don’t forget to check out Avtopro!