OBD-II reference

All 9.533 generic OBD-II codes, explained in detail.

Causes, inspection steps and sources — a comprehensive DIY archive. Created and maintained with love for the detail. Good luck and have fun!

Powertrain generic / SAE

P202A

Reductant Tank Heater Control Circuit/Open

The DEF tank heater control circuit is open or has lost continuity — the PCM cannot drive the resistive heater that prevents the DEF (urea) tank from freezing in winter.

SystemPowertrain
Typegeneric / SAE
GroupP2
Range / number– / 2A

Possible causes

  • Heater element winding open high
  • Open wire between PCM and heater medium
  • Pin pushed back out of connector body low

Symptoms

  • Check engine light or NOx warning on
  • AdBlue/DEF level or quality warning
  • Possible no-start countdown after ignore period
  • Failed emissions inspection (NOx)

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: medium
  • DIY: shop recommended
  • Estimated cost: 80–700 €
  • Estimated time: 0.7–2.5 h
  • Component: reductant tank heater
  • Component: reductant tank harness
  • MIL / check engine light
  • emissions-relevant

Sources

References

How to read OBD-II codes

The first letter names the vehicle system, the second digit distinguishes generic from manufacturer-specific, the remaining digits group fault area and number.

PPowertrain: engine, transmission, emissions
BBody: chassis trim, comfort, interior
CChassis: suspension, brakes, steering
UNetwork: CAN, control modules, communication