Error Code P203D: What It Means & What To Do?
OBD Code P203D - Reductant Level Sensor Circuit High
It can be rather stressful to have the check
engine light on. The first thing to do is find out the OBD code that has been
set, in this case it’s the P203D. This error code is defined as a Reductant
Level Sensor Circuit High and is set by the Powertrain Control Module of your
vehicle. The PCM will set this code when it detects an improper signal from the
Reductant Level Sensor. Read on to know more about this code, the components
involved and also how to resolve it through proper diagnosis.
Learn More about OBD Error Code P203D
Every vehicle has a discrete level sensor which measures the tank level at 3 different heights. However frozen reductant can’t be detected which is why it is can detect reductant in the liquid state only. To update the calculation of the remaining quantity of reductant present, measured level will be used. The level sensor has four superior quality stainless steel pins, each pins length defines the level of the tank in terms of height which has to be checked. Three pins can be used for evaluation as the fourth one is used as ground pin. The urea has electrical conductivity feature, which helps to determine whether the tank level is below or above the level sensor position of the respective sensor. The Engine Control Unit is able to directly evaluate this information and ensure everything is running fine, if not it will proceed to setting the P203D code. The check engine light will also be turned on after the code has been set.
What causes this problem with the Reductant Level Sensor Circuit High?
- Defect in the Reductant level sensor
- Wrong fluid in the DEF storage tank
- An Electrical short
Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix Code P203D
- Engine wiring
connectors - The wiring connector are a crucial part of your vehicle, as
they’re what connects the components and helps in transferring the electrical
messages. Inspect all the connectors, the codes could have been set not
because of a faulty sensor or components but connectors. You can repair or
replace easily. Order from the convenience of your home and have it delivered
to you right to your doorstep!
- Temperature sensor - Measures the
temperature of the fuel and in turn enables the PCM to efficiently regulate the
other components. A fault in the temperature sensor can cause the whole system
to become inoperative. Try to replace it and check if the P203D code goes away,
otherwise go for replacement. Avail free shipping on orders over $99.
- Catalytic converter -Helps to convert all the toxic gases as well as
pollutants in exhaust gas coming from the engine into less-toxic pollutants by
catalyzing a redox reaction. This can very well cause the P203D code to set, so
ensure it’s working properly. You can go for repair or replacement depending on
the damages present. Order from PartsAvatar and track your shipment the whole
way till it reaches you.
- Powertrain Control
Module - Is responsible for monitoring all the other modules and
components. The PCM replacement can be expensive, so make sure repairs can’t
fix the problem. You can pick the right PCM fitment for your vehicle on our
website. It’s easy to search and out 24/7 customer care executive can help you
online too.
- Exhaust system - Is the piping that
guides all the waste exhaust gases away from a controlled combustion inside
your car engine. You can try to repair the issues first and see if that helps
get rid of the P203D code. The other option would be to go for replacement with
PartsAvatar. We ship to the remotest corners of Canada from our warehouses.
- Exhaust Gas
Temperature sensors - Is a meter that’s employed to monitor the exhaust gas
temperature of the combustion engine of your vehicle. First try to repair the
damages you have found or replace it with PartsAvatar. Order online easily
today!
- Exhaust gasket - Are all the metal
components that collect exhaust gases and transport them to the exhaust for
removal from the tailpipe. Find replacement at PartsAvatar today. Order online
easily and receive your order within days. Now you can get rid of the P203D
code easily.
Symptoms Of The OBD Error Code P203D
It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P203D here:
Common Symptoms
- The Diesel Exhaust Fluid level reading is not right
- The Exhaust emissions are outside of the specifications prescribed by the manufacturer
- CEL (Check engine light) is on
- Increased exhaust smoke
- DEF warning is also noted
How To Correct P203D Reductant Level Sensor Circuit High
Here are some ways with
the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P203D
- Repair or replace the Exhaust system components
- Repair or replace catalytic converter
- Repair or replace the temperature sensor
- Repair or replace the faulty Exhaust gasket
- Repair or replace the damaged engine wiring and connectors
- Repair or replace ECM module
There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – Car Parts Online is here to help you out! We have high grade Connectors, Temperature sensor, Catalytic converter, PCM, Exhaust gas, Exhaust system, EGT sensors and a lot more for our precious customers.
Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P203D
Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this P203D fault code:
Start collecting the information necessary for diagnosis. once you have it handy, it will make the process faster and more accurate. Research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for any issues you already knew were present. Make sure you match the TSB exactly to your vehicle's make, model, year of manufacture and engine. In case you feel you won’t be able to manage doing the diagnosis on your own, you can always take assistance from a trained diagnostician or mechanic.
- Connect your OBD-II scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieve all the codes. Now clear the codes and go on a test drive. Make note of all the codes that have set and freeze frame the data. The diagnosis has to be done for all the codes that are now present.
- Locate the DEF storage tank using the technical service bulletins and a reliable information source for your vehicle. Once you have successfully located it, using a dipstick manually measure the level of the fluid. Top up the fluid and move on to the next step.
- After filling the DEF tank If you find that the level is still showing low, then there’s an issue with the reductant level sensor. You will need to replace it and this may help get rid of the P203D code. Remember that replacing the sensor is tricky as it is mounted to the tank, ensure you catch any of the DEF which may come out while replacing it.
- check the electrical connection of level sensor you can refer the service data for the specific vehicle. This will be there in the TSB. You can use a multimeter to test resistance levels. If the values aren’t as needed by the manufacturer you will have to go for replacement of sensor. You may also be hearing explosion like sounds from the rear of the vehicle every time you accelerate. In such case check the carburetor and ensure that the air and fuel combination is in balance, if that’s fine then inspect the distributor cap for any damages. You may find cracks or hairline splits and there can produce an engine backfire. Next move on to the spark plugs and check if they’re clean and not damaged. The engine gaskets will also have to be inspected for any damages, be thorough while doing this.There are high chances that the issue is with the wiring of the sensor so make sure all are repaired or replaced as needed.
- Inspect the reductant level sensor wiring harness for any damages. Any chafed or burned wires or bare wires will need to be repaired, you can also replace them if you feel that would resolve the matter properly. Also, keep in mind that the repairs should last. Now move on to the harness and ensure that it’s fastened safely and not close to the moving parts.
Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P203D Code
- Damaged DEF tank