What Does the Engine Code P2002 Mean?

Engine code P2002 means there’s a problem with your Diesel Particulate Filter’s efficiency.
Written by Joshua Levy
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
When you see the P2002 engine code, it means there’s a problem with your Diesel Particulate Filter’s efficiency. While this code won’t typically affect your ability to drive, it will lower your fuel economy and could lead to overheating.   
Since car troubles are complicated, engine codes are vital for identifying and solving issues in your car. Instead of inspecting every element of your engine, engine codes inform car owners and professionals alike of specific issues—allowing them to quickly resolve the problem.
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What does the engine code P2002 mean?

Definition: Engine code P2002 indicates there’s a problem with your Diesel Particulate Filter’s efficiency
The Diesel Particulate Filter is responsible for controlling emission output in your car. When it’s working well, the filter collects a certain percentage of emissions and releases the rest into the air. 
While you won’t notice any major problems at first, leaving it too long could lead to damaged internal systems, lower fuel economy, and reduced engine performance.

How much will it cost to fix?

You’ll need a professional diagnosis before you can fix the issue, which should cost around $100. While the P2002 could indicate several issues, most of the solutions involve cleaning or replacing minor parts like your Diesel Particulate Filter. 
As a result,
car repairs
depend largely on the cost of labor at your auto shop. Expect to spend about $250 in total for repairs.

What can cause the P2002 engine code?

Engine code P2002 usually goes off in response to irregular back pressure in your exhaust system. Although the engine code could result from low-quality diesel or a broken pressure sensor, here are the most common causes:
  • Broken or clogged Diesel Particulate Filter
  • Leak in your exhaust system

Common symptoms of the P2002 engine code

In most cases, there won’t be any visible symptoms of engine code P2002—aside from the
check engine light turning on
. But you may notice the following in extreme cases: 
  • Black smoke blowing from your exhaust
  • Lower fuel efficiency 
  • Rough idling
If you let the problem persist for too long, your exhaust pipe may overheat and internal components near the exhaust system could get damaged

How serious is the P2002 engine code? 

Problems with your Diesel Particulate Filter typically won’t impact your ability to drive. But if you leave the problem for too long, your car may enter limp mode. In this setting, your car’s engine control module (ECM) will limit your top speed and engine power to prevent damage to your exhaust system.
Given the potential for increased emissions, you may also fail your emissions test if your filter is clogged when you have it inspected.
MORE: How to pass emissions testing

Can I fix the P2002 engine code myself?

While you can sometimes fix a P2002 engine code yourself, you’ll need to start by getting a proper diagnosis. If the problem is related to your pressure sensor, you’ll need a professional.
If your problem is related to a clogged or faulty filter, you can replace it yourself. In this case, you’ll need to do the following before cleaning the filter:
  • Relieve the pressure in your gas line
  • Disconnect your battery
From there, you’ll likely need to disconnect the filter and apply some major elbow grease. If you aren’t prepared for a big mechanical project, you might be better off leaving repairs to a professional.

Unclogging the Diesel Particulate Filter

If you do want to unclog the filter on your own, follow these steps: 
  • Remove the fuse from your oil pump and run the engine for two minutes to relieve the pressure in your gas line.
  • Disconnect the negative cable from your car battery. 
  • Locate the filter beneath your car. It should be somewhere between the gas line and exhaust pipe. 
  • Put a bucket under the filter and unplug the fuel line. The bucket should catch any gas dripping from the fuel line or filter. 
  • Remove the filter and pour out any remaining gas or debris.
  • Clean the filter with a pressurized carburetor cleaner—you can find a cleaner at your local auto shop.
  • Dry the filter thoroughly before reinstalling it.
  • Reconnect the fuel lines and negative battery cable.
MORE: How to put a car on jack stands

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