P24C6 code meaning
Particulate Matter Sensor Temperature Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P24xx codes Check engine light
What P24C6 means
Inside the particulate matter sensor a meander-shaped platinum track measures element temperature, which the sensor needs to control its heater. P24C6 is the general circuit fault of that temperature signal. Ford's 2023 diesel summary flags a signal below 0.3 V or above 3 V for 2 s; VW's 2014 Touareg list and GM's 14OBDG04 table use the same band (GM Type B). On the 2018–2019 CX-5 SKYACTIV-D 2.2, Mazda (bulletin 01-005-22) links it to condensate cracking the element, sets it after one drive cycle and supplies a revised sensor. Ford fits a new sensor under 18-2225 (Super Duty 6.7L, 2017–2018), and GM special coverage 16018 covers 2014–2015 Cruze diesels. P24C8 and P24C9 split the fault into low and high.
P24C6 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P24C6
- Malfunction indicator lamp on
- Particulate filter monitor does not complete
Common causes of P24C6
- Most likelySensor element cracked by condensate
- PossibleOpen or shorted temperature line in the harness
- Less likelyFault in the sensor control unit
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Particulate matter sensor
What each part of P24C6 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). |
| C6 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P24C6 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 P24C6
What does P24C6 mean?
P24C6 means "Particulate Matter Sensor Temperature Circuit". Inside the particulate matter sensor a meander-shaped platinum track measures element temperature, which the sensor needs to control its heater. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P24C6?
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 P24C6 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P24C6 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 P24C6 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 1.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P24C6 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.