P2488 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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Check Engine Light on is usually the major symptom visible for OBD code P2488 error. OBD II fault code P2488 is defined as “Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2 Sensor 5”, and is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects that a part of the evaporative emission control system is not functioning as it should.

Code P2488 denotes a detected out of range or performance problem within the EGR temperature sensor circuit on bank 2, sensor 5. This P2488 DTC refers to Bank 2 (which is the side of the engine that contains cylinder 2). An EGT sensor is found on most late model gas or diesel engines. It's nothing more than a heat sensitive resistor that converts the temperature of the exhaust into a voltage signal to the computer. It receives a 5-volt signal from the computer through one wire while the second wire is ground.

The higher the exhaust temperature the less resistance to ground resulting in a higher voltage -- conversely, the lower the temperature the more the resistance resulting in lower voltage. If the engine senses a low voltage, the computer will vary the engine's timing or fuel ratio to keep the temperature in acceptable ranges within the converter.

In a diesel, the EGT is used to determine the timing of regeneration of the DPF (diesel particulate filter) based on the temperature rise.

What causes this problem with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2 Sensor 5?

• Loose or corroded connectors or terminals
• Broken wires or missing insulation may be causing a short directly to ground
• The sensor may have failed
• A cutback exhaust system without EGT provisions installed
• It's possible, although not probable, that the computer (PCM/ECM) has failed
• Increased particulate matter in the exhaust system

1. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve - Did you just see check engine light flashing on your dashboard? If the computer would detect some fault with the automobile’s EGR valve circuit, then it would set up the check engine light so that the driver is notified about the fault. Don’t waste time and get them replaced or else this fault code can turn up.
2. Engine Control Module - Most of the time it is difficult to intercept the ECM faults and thus must be checked for thoroughly. There can be a problem with the circuit or the software might have malfunctioned. Thus repair, replace or reprogram the component as per requirement.
3. Powertrain Control Module - If the PCM is faulty, it can stores wrong OBD codes and can lead to misdiagnosis. This can happen due to misinterpretation of data received from the various sensors and components which also affects the vehicle’s performance. Thus replace it immediately.
4. Fuel Injector - Affected fuel injectors can cause reduced performance and throttle response. It can also affect the fuel economy and affect the engine emission. Thus, replace faulty fuel injector now!
5. 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!
6. Electronic Control Unit – If the ECU is at fault, it will not be able to read the boost converter temperatures correctly leading to underperformance. Thus, replace faulty ECU now!
7. Diagnostic Tool - Choose from our diagnostic tools collection that will come handy to detect and correct the OBD error code.
8. Catalytic Converter – If the catalytic converter is damaged, it will affect the fuel delivery and the air intake system respectively. Also it may result in increased emission from the exhaust. Thus, it becomes important to replace faulty catalytic converter immediately.
9. Oxygen Sensor – Faulty O2 sensor affects the performance output, but also affects the fuel economy, exhaust emissions and acceleration. Thus, a faulty oxygen sensor must be replaced as if it important for keeping in check the oxygen levels entering/exiting the engine.
10. Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor - The EGR temperature sensor is an important component of the EGR system and any issues with it can lead to emissions problems and even serious damage. Thus, replace it immediately.

It is vital 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 P2488 here:

Common Symptoms

• Check Engine Light illumination
• Affected fuel economy
• Increased levels of emissions

Want to correct the Trouble Code P2488? Read these points mentioned below:

• Replacement of the EGT sensor for Bank 2 Sensor 5
• Replacement of damaged or corroded wiring and connectors
• Replacement of associated diesel particulate filter
• Removal of accumulated soot in the exhaust system
• PCM repairs and reprogramming

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It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P2488 code to be stored:

• Raise the vehicle and locate the EGT sensor. For this code, it refers to the Bank 2 sensor, which is the side of the engine that contains cylinder 2.
• It’s between the exhaust manifold and the converter or, in the case of a diesel, before the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). It looks different from the oxygen sensors in that is just a plug with two wires.
• A vehicle with a turbo will have the sensor next to the turbo exhaust input. Check the connectors for any abnormality such as corrosion or loose terminals. Follow the pigtail up to its connector and check that one as well. Look for signs of missing insulation or bare wires that may be shorting to ground.
• Disconnect the upward connector and remove the EGT sensor. Check the resistance with an ohmmeter. Probe both terminals in the connector. A good EGT will have about 150 ohms. If there is very little resistance -- below 50 ohms replace the sensor.
• Use a hair dryer or heat gun and heat the sensor while you watch the ohmmeter. The resistance should drop as the sensor is heated and rise as it cools. If not, replace it. If all was good to this point, turn the key on and measure the voltage at the engine side of the pigtail. There should be 5 volts at the connector. If not replace the computer.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2488 Code

Always take professional help and follow the diagnosis instructions properly before coming to a conclusion or simply replacing the sensor first.

• Replacing PCM, without checking other components for faults
• Replacing EGT Sensor directly
• Not inspecting faulty wiring and connections