Quick Answer
P20B7 means: P20B7 indicates an issue with the reductant temperature sensor in diesel engines.
Can I drive with P20B7? Address this code immediately to prevent engine performance issues and increased emissions.
Common Questions
What does P20B7 mean and how does it affect my car?
P20B7 indicates a malfunction in the reductant temperature sensor associated with the SCR system in your diesel vehicle. This can lead to reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and potential long-term damage if not repaired. The vehicle may experience poor acceleration and decreased fuel efficiency.
What are the most common causes of P20B7 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common cause of P20B7 is a faulty reductant temperature sensor, typically costing between $150 and $300 to replace. Additionally, wiring issues or a clogged SCR system can contribute to this code, with repair costs varying depending on the extent of the damage.
Can I drive my car with P20B7 or should I stop immediately?
While you may be able to drive your vehicle with the P20B7 code, it is not advisable. Continuing to drive can lead to decreased performance and increased emissions, potentially resulting in more severe damage. It's best to address the issue as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose P20B7 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P20B7 using the GeekOBD APP, connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Use the app to scan for trouble codes and view freeze frame data. This information will help you understand the conditions under which the code was triggered and guide you in pinpointing the exact problem.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P20B7?
P20B7 is commonly reported in 2015-2019 Ford diesel vehicles, especially those equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke engine. Models such as the F-250, F-350, and Super Duty series frequently experience this code due to the complexity of their emissions systems.
How can I prevent P20B7 from happening again?
To prevent P20B7 from reoccurring, ensure regular maintenance of your SCR system, including periodic inspections of the reductant temperature sensor and wiring. Use high-quality DEF and address any engine performance issues promptly to minimize stress on the emissions system.
What is P20B7?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P20B7 indicates a problem with the reductant temperature sensor in the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system of diesel vehicles. This code often appears in 2015-2019 Ford diesel models, particularly those equipped with 6.7L Power Stroke engines. The SCR system is crucial for reducing harmful emissions, and the reductant temperature sensor plays a vital role in ensuring the proper temperature of the DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) before it enters the SCR system. When the engine control module (ECM) detects a temperature reading outside the expected range, it triggers the P20B7 code. This can lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. Owners may also notice that the check engine light is illuminated. It's essential to diagnose and rectify the underlying issue to ensure compliance with emissions regulations and maintain optimal vehicle performance. Ignoring this code can result in costly repairs down the line, as it may lead to further complications within the SCR system.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P20B7 is present:
- Check engine light stays on consistently, indicating a persistent problem with the SCR system.
- Engine performance may feel sluggish, especially during acceleration or under load, as the engine may limit power to reduce emissions.
- Fuel economy may decrease by 10-20%, as the system may not operate efficiently.
- The vehicle may enter limp mode, restricting speed and performance to prevent further damage.
- You might notice unusual exhaust smoke, which could indicate incomplete combustion or SCR system failure.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P20B7 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of P20B7 is a faulty reductant temperature sensor, which accounts for about 60% of cases. This sensor can fail due to exposure to extreme temperatures or contamination.
- Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or connectors within the SCR system, which can lead to signal loss or incorrect readings.
- A clogged or malfunctioning SCR system can also trigger this code. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent this issue.
- Less common but serious causes include a failing ECM, which may misinterpret data from the temperature sensor.
- In rare cases, software glitches in the vehicle's ECU can falsely trigger the P20B7 code without a physical fault.
P20B7 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Reductant Temperature Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty reductant temperature sensor to restore proper system function.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors related to the SCR system.
- Total: $100 - $250
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for P20B7
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P20B7 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P20B7. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection of the SCR system
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to scan the vehicle's OBD2 system
Step 3: Conduct component testing on the reductant temperature sensor using a multimeter to check its resistance and voltage output against manufacturer specifications
Step 4: After making any repairs, perform a system function test to ensure the SCR system operates correctly and clear any stored codes
Step 5: Road test the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the P20B7 code does not return and that performance is restored
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: 2017 Ford F-250 P20B7 Repair
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-250 Super Duty, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light on and decreased engine performance.
Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, the P20B7 code was retrieved. Visual inspection revealed damaged wiring to the reductant temperature sensor.
Solution: Replaced the damaged wiring and the reductant temperature sensor.
Cost: $280 (sensor $150, wiring repair $130)
Result: After repairs, the check engine light was cleared, and performance returned to normal.
Case Study 2: 2018 Ford F-350 SCR System Failure
Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty, 50,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced poor acceleration and check engine light illuminated.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic testing revealed P20B7. Further inspection indicated a faulty reductant temperature sensor.
Solution: Replaced the sensor and performed a system function test.
Cost: $200 ($175 for the sensor, $25 for labor)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle showed improved performance and the check engine light remained off.