P220C code meaning
NOx Sensor Supply Voltage Circuit (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
Powertrain system Generic code P22xx codes Check engine light
What P220C means
P220C is reserved for an engine with a separate exhaust path per cylinder bank, each with its own NOx sensors, and reports that the upstream sensor on bank 2 is not getting a proper supply voltage. No manufacturer documents this code publicly; the diesel pickups and trucks examined (Ford, GM, VW, Volvo/Mack) merge both banks into one SCR line and only use the bank 1 codes. By analogy with P220A, a fault would mean the supply sits outside a window like Ford's 8.5 to 16.5 V, or the supplying module reports a short. Smart sensors send their supply status over CAN, so the engine computer learns it from the sensor itself. Check fuse, relay, ground and wiring for that bank. P220D is the downstream sensor on bank 2.
P220C at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P220C
- Malfunction indicator lamp on
- No NOx value from the bank 2 upstream sensor
Common causes of P220C
- Most likelyFuse, relay or ground fault in the bank 2 sensor supply
- PossibleSupply wiring to the bank 2 upstream sensor damaged
- Less likelySystem voltage out of range (battery or alternator)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Nox sensor
What each part of P220C means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 2 | Area: fuel and air metering (injector circuit). |
| 0C | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P220C 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 P220C
What does P220C mean?
P220C means "NOx Sensor Supply Voltage Circuit (Bank 2 Sensor 1)". P220C is reserved for an engine with a separate exhaust path per cylinder bank, each with its own NOx sensors, and reports that the upstream sensor on bank 2 is not getting a proper supply voltage. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P220C?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P220C fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P220C 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 P220C to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P220C clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.