Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Intermittent Circuit Issue with Reductant Temperature Sensor
What does that signify?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that is applicable to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). This includes vehicles from Mercedes, Sprinter, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, and others. While it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
A stored code P2046 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormal voltage level in the reductant temperature sensor circuit. This code is typically found in vehicles with clean-burning diesel engines.
The catalyst system is responsible for reducing almost all exhaust emissions, although some applications also have a NOx trap.
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems go a step further in reducing NOx. However, larger and more powerful diesel engines today cannot meet strict federal (U.S.) emission standards with just the EGR, diesel particulate filter/catalytic converter, and NOx trap. This is why selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems were developed.
SCR systems inject a reductant compound or diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) into the exhaust before the diesel particulate filter, NOx trap, and/or catalytic converter using the reductant injection valve (solenoid). The precise timing of DEF injection increases the temperature of the filtration element, allowing it to function more efficiently. This improves the longevity of the filtration element and reduces harmful exhaust emissions released into the atmosphere. The entire SCR system is monitored and controlled by either the PCM or a stand-alone controller that interacts with the PCM. The controller monitors O2, NOx, and exhaust temperature sensors, among other inputs, to determine the optimal time for DEF (reductant) injection. Accurate DEF injection is crucial for maintaining exhaust temperature within acceptable limits and optimizing pollutant filtration.
The reductant/regeneration supply pump pressurizes the DEF in the liquid reductant system for use when needed. The PCM monitors the supply pump voltage for consistent fluctuation and load percentage. The PCM also monitors one or more pressure sensors in the reductant supply system to detect any leaks.
If the PCM detects erratic or intermittent voltage in the reductant temperature sensor circuit, outside the normal expected parameters, it will store a code P2046 and may illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). Multiple ignition cycles with a failure may be necessary for MIL illumination.
Example of a DEF reductant tank:
What is the severity of this DTC?
A stored code P2046 should be considered severe and addressed as quickly as possible. It could disable the SCR system, and catalyst damage may occur if the underlying conditions are not resolved promptly.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2046 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this code may include:
What are some P2046 troubleshooting steps?
To diagnose a code P2046, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and access to vehicle-specific diagnostic information.
Refer to your vehicle information source to find a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle’s year, make, model, engine size, stored codes, and exhibited symptoms. A relevant TSB may provide helpful diagnostic information.
Use the scanner connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector to retrieve all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. It is advisable to record this information before clearing the codes and then test-drive the vehicle until the PCM enters readiness mode or the code is reset.
If the PCM enters readiness mode at this point, the code is intermittent and may be more challenging to diagnose. In such cases, the underlying conditions may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
If the code is immediately reset, the next step in your diagnosis will involve consulting your vehicle information source for diagnostic flowcharts, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications.
Step 1
Use the DVOM to test the reductant temperature sensor according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Any components that do not meet the maximum allowable parameters should be considered defective.
Step 2
If the actual reductant temperature falls within specifications, the code P2046 persists, and the sensor in question is functioning correctly, use the DVOM to test the input and output signal circuits between the temperature sensor and the PCM/SCR controller. Disconnect all controllers before conducting the DVOM tests.
