If your car is showing a P2BAC engine code, then you’re likely dealing with issues related to your NOx levels. This can cause black smoke to emit from your exhaust or a sudden drop in fuel economy. If you want to maintain smooth functioning and get the most miles per gallon, then you should get this issue looked at ASAP.

DTCs, or Diagnostic Trouble Codes, can give you a better insight into what’s happening below the hood. If you have an OBD-II code reader, it’s vital to know the meaning behind the various codes that register on the reader so as to properly address the problem.

The #1-rated

car insurance

broker app

Jerry

has gathered all the necessary intel on the various engine codes you might see when your Check Engine Light illuminates. In this article, we’ll dive into what the P2BAC engine code means, how to fix it and how much it might cost.

Don't get ripped off!

Estimate repairs near you with GarageGuard™ for free so you KNOW the fair price

Get GarageGuard™

No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms

No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms · No fees

4.717k Ratings

5M+Drivers Joined

7M+Cars Garaged

What does the engine code P2BAC mean?

The P2BAC engine code signifies the deactivation of your EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and NOx (nitrogen oxide) exceedance.

The deactivated EGR is set in motion by the detection of NOx in the exhaust gas that exceeds the allowable threshold level. This code only applies to automobiles that are fitted with an EGR system.

How much will it cost to diagnose?

Depending on the make and model of your car, diagnosing the P2BAC engine code typically takes around an hour, with the average labor cost coming in at around $75 to $150 an hour.

MORE: Does car insurance cover repairs?

What can cause the P2BAC engine code?

There are a few different factors that could cause the P2BAC engine code to be set off, and most of them pertain to the NOx system in your car. Here are some possible culprits:

A faulty NOx sensor

A NOx sensor harness that is open or shorted

NOx sensor circuit with a poor electrical connection

A faulty Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

Faulty EGR valve

Common symptoms of the P2BAC engine code

First and foremost, is your

Check Engine Light on

? That’s the most common indicator, but there are other symptoms to be on the lookout for as well.

ECM indicating the stored error code

Exponential increase in the fuel consumption pattern

Rough engine with occasional stalling

Lack of power and acceleration due to failure of fuel delivery system

Black or white smoke coming from the tailpipe

MORE: How to pass emissions testing

How serious is the P2BAC engine code?

Will your car still function with a P2BAC engine code? Sure, but it’s not ideal and shouldn’t be pushed.

In the near future, you’ll lose power while also suffering at the gas station—a most unfortunate double whammy! Over time, this problem can do serious damage to your engine, as well.

Can I fix the issue myself?

You can! However, due to the various possible malfunctions, it might not be the easiest of fixes. Start by visually inspecting the related wiring harness and connectors. Next, check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

MORE: How to know if a mechanic is taking too long with car repairs

Finding insurance for your vehicle

Here at

Jerry

, we aim to keep your insurance costs low. As a licensed insurance broker, Jerry can find competitive quotes on the best car insurance coverage from over 50 top insurance companies in under a minute.

There’s no need to fill out forms, stand in line at the DMV, or wait for the post office to process your application—just download the app, answer a few questions, and let Jerry work its magic! We’ll do all the nitty-gritty for you, so you can take care of that P2BAC engine code issue.

Jerry users save an average of $887 a year on

car insurance

, so it’s a smart way to save money on car expenses in just a few minutes.

“My monthly insurance payment went from $469 to $362 and
Jerry
gave me a $25 gift card from Amazon! I’m so happy they helped me switch between companies. I sent my sister their link and she’s saving money now too!” —Wanda P.

RECOMMENDED