Faulty NOx sensor on bank 2 sensor 1.; Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the NOx sensor.; Open or short circuit in the sensor signal or heater circuit.; Exhaust leaks upstream of the sensor affecting readings.; Contaminated sensor element from excessive oil ash or coolant intrusion.; PCM software issue or internal fault in the NOx sensor processing circuit.

DTC codes / P22xx · Fuel and air metering (injector circuits) / P2213

P2213NOx Sensor Circuit (Bank 2 Sensor 1)

Q: What does code P2213 mean?

NOx Sensor Circuit (Bank 2 Sensor 1). P2213 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormal condition in the nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensor circuit for bank 2 sensor 1, which monitors NOx levels in the exhaust after the catalytic converter on the bank that does not contain cylinder 1. The PCM compares the sensor's signal voltage to expected values and sets this code when the circuit is out of range, indicating a fault in the sensor, its wiring, or the associated processing circuit.

P2213 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormal condition in the nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensor circuit for bank 2 sensor 1, which monitors NOx levels in the exhaust after the catalytic converter on the bank that does not contain cylinder 1. The PCM compares the sensor's signal voltage to expected values and sets this code when the circuit is out of range, indicating a fault in the sensor, its wiring, or the associated processing circuit.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaFuel and air metering (injector circuits)

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms.
Reduced engine performance or power, particularly under load.
Decreased fuel efficiency as the PCM may alter fuel delivery to compensate.
Possible rough idle or hesitation during acceleration.
In some vehicles, a message indicating emissions system fault or service required.
Failure to pass an emissions inspection due to the stored code.

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty NOx sensor on bank 2 sensor 1.
Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the NOx sensor.
Open or short circuit in the sensor signal or heater circuit.
Exhaust leaks upstream of the sensor affecting readings.
Contaminated sensor element from excessive oil ash or coolant intrusion.
PCM software issue or internal fault in the NOx sensor processing circuit.

How to diagnose and fix it

Perform a visual inspection of the NOx sensor, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion.
Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or software updates for the PCM related to NOx sensor operation.
Use a scan tool to monitor NOx sensor live data and compare to specifications.
Test the sensor heater circuit resistance and supply voltage with a multimeter.
Inspect for exhaust leaks between the turbocharger and the sensor location.
Replace the NOx sensor if testing indicates it is faulty.
Clear the code and perform a drive cycle to verify the repair.

Diagnosing NOx Sensor Circuit Faults

A common misdiagnosis is replacing the NOx sensor when the actual problem is a corroded connector or chafed wire harness, so always perform a thorough circuit test first.
Exhaust leaks upstream of the sensor can cause lean or rich readings that mimic a sensor failure, so inspect the exhaust system carefully before condemning the sensor.
Some vehicles require a relearn or adaptation reset after replacing the NOx sensor, and skipping this step can cause the code to return.
The NOx sensor is heated, and a failed heater circuit often sets this code without any driveability symptoms, leading owners to ignore it until emissions testing.
Bank 2 sensor 1 refers to the sensor located after the catalytic converter on the bank that does not contain cylinder 1, which can be confusing on V6 and V8 engines.

Can I keep driving with P2213?

You can generally continue driving with this code, but avoid heavy loads or aggressive acceleration until it is repaired, as prolonged driving may increase emissions and potentially lead to more extensive damage to the emissions system.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.