Feedback

Guide To P20BE OBD Error Code Solutions

OBD Code P20BE - Reductant Heater B Control Circuit Performance

<<See All OBD Codes

The trouble code P20BE can be described as Reductant Heater B Control Circuit Performance. The error code P20BE would start triggering when the PCM would detect some fault in reductant heater B control circuit. One thing which you must keep in mind that its symptoms as well as causes would surely vary as it depends upon a number of things.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P20BE

This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. This can happen because of a lot of reasons and the mechanic should diagnose the specific cause for this code. The P20BE trouble code would indicate that a reductant heater B control circuit which is not as per the predetermined limit has been detected by the ECM. Now when this would occur, the fault code would be stored and there would be an illumination in the malfunction indicator light.


What causes this problem with the Reductant Heater B Control Circuit Performance?


  • Defaults in the reductant heater
  • Imperfect reductant temperature sensor
  • reductant heater control sensor harness might be sometimes open or shorted
  • reductant heater control sensor circuit might have bad electrical connection
  • Sometimes there might be SCR controller /PCM or programming error

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix Code P20BE

  1. Engine Control Module - It is not always the components, but the ECM that can also be faulty. It can cause misinterpretation of correct data thus leading to wrong operational decisions which will affect the transmission and overall engine performance. Thus, replace faulty module and reprogram it now!
  2. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve - If the PCM detects any fault in the vehicle’s EGR valve circuit, it will set up the check engine light so that the driver is notified about the fault. Properly check for the EGR valve faults leading to this OBD code getting stored in the system. Get the faulty EGR valve replaced or else this fault code can turn up.
  3. Powertrain Control Module - Powertrain Control Module can also be faulty in rare cases and thus needs through checks for system and software errors. Thus check and replace it, if required.
  4. Diagnostic Tool - It is always advisable to use correct tools and equipment while resolving any OBD code issue as even small mistakes can lead to wrong diagnosis. Thus, always take help from a professional who has the knowledge and experience to such tools in efficient manner. Buy new quality diagnostic tools from us today!
  5. Electronic Control Unit - ECU monitors the temperature differences in the boost converter with the help of the temperature sensors to prevent the converter from overheating and malfunctioning. Thus, replace faulty ECU immediately.
  6. Diesel Exhaust Fluid Pump - The diesel exhaust fluid pump needs to work properly if the transmission system has to perform. If it is not functioning, the transmission may slip and cause harsh shifts too. Thus replace faulty pump now and buy a new one from us!
  7. Fuel Injector - The fuel injector is a small nozzle into which liquid fuel is injected at high pressure. It works like a spray nozzle of a pressure washer. The placement of the injector can be in a different part of the engine depending upon the type of fuel injection system is being used. High pressure from the fuel pump feeds the fuel to the fuel injector. Thus, replace damaged fuel injector now!

Symptoms Of The OBD Error Code P20BE

Our main motive is to achieve customer satisfaction and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P20BE code by mentioning some major symptoms below:


Common Symptoms


  • Illumination of the service engine soon light
  • Decline in the fuel economy
  • Some issues related to excessive black smoke from exhaust of the vehicle
  • Bad engine performance
  • Appearance of SCR related codes

How To Correct P20BE Reductant Heater B Control Circuit Performance

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P20BE:


  • Make sure to mend the faulty reductant heater control circuit
  • Repair or replace the quirky reductant heater control sensor harness
  • Recondition the non-functioning reductant heater control sensor
  • Exhaust system parts replacement
  • Faulty wiring and connector issue
  • PCM repair and reprogramming

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of pcm, ecm, diesel exhaust fluid, reductant heater, reductant temperature sensor, catalytic converter, ecm module, pcm module and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P20BE

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:


  • Hook up a scan tool to the DLC port and check for any codes present.
  • Note the codes and freeze frame data from all the codes.
  • Clear the stored codes from the ECU.
  • Perform a road test under similar conditions as the freeze frame data indicated.
  • Begin the diagnosis by visually inspecting the reductant heater system harnesses and connectors.
  • Repair or replace burnt or damaged wiring and or connectors before doing any further diagnosis.
  • Plug the scanner into the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieve all stored codes and pertinent freeze frame data. Note this information down before clearing the fault codes.
  • Make the PCM to go into readiness mode or reset the code by test driving the vehicle.
  • If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and will be difficult to diagnose.
  • If the code gets reset immediately, start searching for the correct information source to get diagnostic flow charts, connector pin-out charts as well as constituent testing procedures and specifications. 
  • Test (voltage drop) the power supply to the SCR control system using a DVOM.
  • Check fuses with the circuit loaded to avoid misdiagnosis.
  • With the help of the scanner, activate the reductant heater and test output control circuit voltage, if the power battery voltage and ground circuit are discovered appropriately.
  • There are chances that the controller is bad or has experienced a programming error, if the voltage is insufficient.
  • If the voltage output circuit is within parameters, use the DVOM and test the reductant heater element. If the heater does not meet manufacturer’s specifications, then it might have failed and shall be replaced.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P20BE Code


  • There can be a failure in the glow plug control module
  • Defaults in the reductant tank heater
  • Some issues related to the wiring

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P20BE

P20BD - Reductant Heater "B" Control Circuit/Open

P20BF - Reductant Heater "B" Control Circuit Low

P20C0 - Reductant Heater "B" Control Circuit High