P213A code meaning
EGR Throttle Control Circuit B/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P21xx codes Check engine light
What P213A means
P213A concerns the electrical drive of EGR throttle B, a second motor-driven regulating flap found on some diesel layouts. Such a flap closes partly so that pressure ahead of the intake falls below exhaust pressure and enough exhaust gas can be recirculated; it also cuts air at engine stop. The engine module watches the output stage of flap B and stores P213A when the circuit is open or the driver flags a fault it cannot assign to low or high. No manufacturer documents this code publicly, so thresholds are unknown; CARB treats the flap as an output component whose circuit must be monitored. Flap A reports the same fault as P0487. Expect the flap to rest in its spring position, reduced EGR and possibly a power limit.
P213A at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P213A
- Check engine lamp on
- Reduced power or limp mode
- Engine shudder when switched off
- EGR readiness not completed
Common causes of P213A
- Most likelyLoose, corroded or broken connector or wire at throttle B
- PossibleOpen winding in the throttle B actuator motor
- Less likelyHarness damaged by heat near the exhaust or EGR cooler
- Less likelyFaulty output stage in the engine control module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
EGR throttle bEGR actuator
What each part of P213A means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 1 | Area: fuel and air metering. |
| 3A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P213A and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P213A
What does P213A mean?
P213A means "EGR Throttle Control Circuit B/Open". P213A concerns the electrical drive of EGR throttle B, a second motor-driven regulating flap found on some diesel layouts. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P213A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P213A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P213A fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P213A is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P213A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P213A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.