What is a NOx sensor error code?
Firstly, let’s examine the NOx sensor error code. NOx sensor development started in the 1990s and has become a particularly important part of the diesel engine. They are designed to measure both the oxygen level and the nitrogen level in the exhaust. The combination of these two chemical names resulted in the label ‘NOx’. The code pops up when there is an issue with the levels of chemicals, or when there is a problem with the sensor itself. It is really important to take a look at the underlying issues which might be causing this error. So today we are going to look at four iterations of this code: P11CC, P11DC, P11DB and P20EE. These error codes are commonly used in GM Vauxhall Opel Chevrolet GMC and many other car manufacturers.
Fixing the NOx error code
There are some important similarities in the best way to approach these codes, but we are going to approach them separately here:
P11CC: The P11CC error code might be caused by a number of things. It could simply be an issue with the sensor itself, which would be best fixed by replacing the sensor, or the probe sensor. This might be especially true if there is a poor electrical connection. P11CC might also be caused by intake or exhaust system leaks. Before setting about fixing this problem, though, it important to rule out an issue with the sensor itself. You can rule this out by replacing the NOx sensor. If the replaced sensor still issues the same code, it may be time to investigate possible leaks.
P11DC & P11DB: The P11DC error code is similar, except that it is a fault specifically caused by the Nitrogen Oxide sensor. Again, the P11DB error code has similar causes: an issue with the electric circuiting of the NOx sensor, or a potential leak. Again it is wise to ensure the sensor is fixed before investigating possible leaks.
P20EE: The P20EE error code is a potentially more complex issue, with several possible causes. This code might indicate fuel contamination, or a problem with the diesel exhaust fluid, as well as being a prime indicator or exhaust leaks. However, it is once again caused also by a faulty NOx sensor, so it is still wise to replace the NOx sensor before investigating other causes. And you’ve guessed it, if the new sensor still produces the P20EE error code, then it might be time to get a mechanic to investigate more complex causes of the error.
Ofcourse none of the car dealers will be so helpfull and tell you how to fix it, they just say replace whole NOx control unit and you will spend so much money for parts which you don't need at first place, but ofcourse they wouldn't missout opportunity to loose profit by selling car parts, so this is like a"secret" which we are sharing with you and as always we try to save money for our customers and blog readers how fix their cars in the cheapest way.
Ofcourse in certain cases NS11A probe won't fix trouble codes, but just for an errors when it says there is no communication between nox sensor and car, all other error codes related to Nitrogen Oxide sensor will be fixed without a doubt.
Once replaced probe delete all trouble codes and go for a ride or replace and drive car evene you see CEL (Check Engine Light) on, it will dissapear after 30-40 miles or so.
These Diagnostic Trouble Code in short DTC are very common between Vauxhall Opel Astra Zafira Tourer Corsa Insignia Estate Sports Toure A MK1 B MK2 Mokka Mokka X SUV GM Chevrolet brand cars.
NOx fault codes and explanations
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- P11DB - NOx Sensor Current Performance Bank 1 Sensor 1
- P220A - Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) sensor supply voltage circuit bank 1 sensor 1
- U029D Lost Communication with Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Sensor 1 Module
- U029D00 Prekinjena komunikacija s senzorjem NOx 1
- P2206-00 P220600 NOx Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1
- P22A3 Nitrogen oxides (NOx) sensor 2 bank 1 heater control - open circuit
- P11DC - NOx Sensor Current Performance Bank 1 Sensor 2
- P11DC-00 NOx sensor 2 current Performance
- P11DC NOx sensor 2 Strom Leistungsvermögen
- P22A4 Nox sensor 2 heating voltage too low
- P22A8 NOx Sensor Heater Sense Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- P220B NOx sensor supply voltage - circuit malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- U029E Lost Communication with NOx sensor B
- U029E Der Fehlercode ist nicht in der datenbank gefunden
- U029E Lost Communication with Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Sensor 2 Module
- P20EE - Nitrogen Oxide (Nox) Catalyst Efficiency below Threshold
- P20EE00 - SCR NOx catalytic converter bank 1 error message: efficiency too low sporadic fault
- P2BAD - Exhaust Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Concentration high
- P220A - Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) sensor supply voltage circuit bank 1 sensor 1 current
- P11D8 Nox sensor 2 defective
- P11D9 Nox sensor 2 low voltage
- P22A4 Nox sensor 2 heating voltage too low
- P22A8 NOx Sensor Heater Sense Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- P220B NOx sensor supply voltage - circuit malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- P11C5 NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit
- P11C6 NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit High
- P11D3 NOx Sensor 1 Exceeded Minimum Learning Limit
GM and Continental part numbers, which you could find at our store to replace faulty NOx control unit or if you decide to do DIY work and save a good amount of money you can buy our NS11A NOx sensor probe repair kit.
GM Opel Vauxhall part numbers: |
Continental part numbers: |
Cars using these part numbers:
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More part numbers:
- SNS427 A2C12454100-01 55487663
- 55487659 0281006925/926
- 55512349 SNS0426A A3C02960400-02
- 55487662 SNS426 A2C12453800-01
- 55512347 SNS0427A A3C02960600-01
- 55487663 SNS427 A2C12454100-01
- 55500319 SNS167B A2C12686500-01 855606
- 55487269 SNS167 5WK96767 A2C90859600-02 55495340
- 55500320 A2C12686700-01 SNS168B 855607
- 55589458 55495341 55512350
- 55487270 SNS168 5WK96768
- 55488276 SNS384 5WK97384 A2C96204600-01
- 55496784 SNS498 A2C15955100-01
- 55495596 SNS717 A2C15954700-01
- 55495597 SNS718 A2C15954900-02
- 55495632 SNS499 A2C15391500-01
GM sensors are fitted on various cars belonging to their group such as
- Vauxhall Holden Opel Insignia MK2 B Z18 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
- Saloon Sedan Estate Sports Touurer SRi VX-Line
- 2.0 CDTI Turbo diesel
- Engine codes B20DTH D20DTH D20DTR
So why is it important?
The initial motivation for developing the NOx sensor was to create more eco-friendly cars, particularly for those with diesel engines. NOx gasses are a huge problem worldwide, with the noxious gasses emitted by car exhausts causing disruptive weather such as smog and acid rain. NOx sensors are a way to detect and then take steps to minimize poisonous exhaust fumes. As such it is really important to ensure your NOx sensor is fully working. Not least to comply with the most recent environmental regulations in your country.
