Diesel vehicles can have problems with their selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system while showing minimal issues. A great way to check if your vehicle has problems with its SCR system is to hook up a scan tool to check for any stored trouble codes. A problem with your vehicle’s SCR system can trigger the P2050 code or other related trouble codes.

What Does the P2050 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2050 is defined as Reductant Injection Valve Circuit/Open Bank 1 Unit 2. This code is triggered when the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) injector fails to function properly. Engines inject DEF into the vehicle’s exhaust to help reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

The DEF injector is part of the SCR system, which is made to supplement other systems that reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

Note: The definition of the P2050 code can be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P2050 Code?

The common causes of issues that trigger the P2050 code include:

• Failed DEF injector
• Faulty DEF wiring injector
• PCM Failure

What are the Common Symptoms of the P2050 Code?

A triggered P2050 code can result in increased NOx emissions. Your vehicle might show the following symptoms:

• Illuminated check engine light
• Additional warnings and messages on the dashboard
• Vehicle stuck in a derated or “limp” mode

How to Diagnose the P2050 Code

If the P2050 code has been triggered, then you need to find the main problem causing it before you make any repairs. The P2050 code is commonly caused by a faulty DEF injector or DEF wiring, but you shouldn’t automatically assume that your vehicle has these issues.

Diagnosing DTCs typically involves doing visual inspections and perhaps even tests on specific components. This task might require a lot of technical knowledge and specialized tools. If you think this is too daunting, then you should leave it to a professional mechanic.

How to Fix the P2050 Code

Want to fix the problems causing the P2050 code to register? Unfortunately, like almost all DTCs, there isn’t a single silver-bullet that fixes it. Repair procedures can vary greatly between different vehicle makes and models.

The best way to fix the P2050 code is to first get an accurate diagnosis. Don’t start doing repairs until you’ve identified the main problem. Otherwise, you might fix a perfectly functioning component. You can look at reputable internet repair resources and how-to guides when you find the main problem. Also, check a repair manual because it might have important information regarding your vehicle’s problem.

If you don’t have much experience diagnosing or fixing error codes, you should let a professional mechanic do the job for you.