P2486 code meaning
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (Bank 2 Sensor 5)
Powertrain system Generic code P24xx codes Check engine light
What P2486 means
P2486 is set when the signal of the fifth bank 2 exhaust probe sits below its lower electrical limit, typically because the lead or the probe itself shorts to ground. No manufacturer documents P2486 publicly; it presupposes two exhaust banks with five probes each. As an analogy, GM's diesel tables handle bank 1 probe 5 under P2481 with a resistance limit of 158 to 500 Ω depending on the year (under 1 Ω in 2025) and a debounce of 10 of 20 samples, Type B. CARB calls for out-of-range low checks on every such input. In the workshop, measure the probe resistance cold and compare it with a probe of the same type, then look for chafed insulation along the exhaust. Opposite limit: P2487; bank 1: P2481.
P2486 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2486
- Engine warning lamp
- Implausible reading of this probe
Common causes of P2486
- Most likelyLead insulation damaged and touching ground
- PossibleInternal short of the probe
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Egt sensor b2s5
What each part of P2486 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 4 | Area: auxiliary emission controls (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP). |
| 86 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2486 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 P2486
What does P2486 mean?
P2486 means "Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (Bank 2 Sensor 5)". P2486 is set when the signal of the fifth bank 2 exhaust probe sits below its lower electrical limit, typically because the lead or the probe itself shorts to ground. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2486?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2486 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2486 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2486 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 P2486 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2486 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.