All Powertrain Emissions DTC Codes — Complete OBD-II Diagnostic Guide (2026)
This comprehensive reference covers every Powertrain Emissions diagnostic trouble code (DTC) — 28 codes total. Each code includes what triggers it, common symptoms, step-by-step diagnostic procedures, and repair guidance.
Detailed DTC Code Guides
P0400: The engine control module detects that the EGR system is not moving the correct amount of exhaust gases back into the intake. The valve, passages, or sensor are not delivering the flow the computer expects.
Fix OBD‑II code P0400: Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Flow Malfunction. Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair tips, cost guide, and safety advice.
- Quick visual check
- Inspect EGR valve and passages
- Test EGR valve operation
- ...see all 4 steps →
P0401: The engine control module (ECM) has detected that the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is not delivering enough exhaust gases back into the intake. The restriction can be caused by a stuck valve, clogged passages, a vacuum/boost‑control problem, or a wiring fault.
Fix OBD‑II code P0401: EGR Flow Insufficient Detected. Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair guide, cost guide, and safety tips.
- Quick visual scan
- Read live data and freeze‑frame
- Test the EGR valve actuator
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0402: The engine control module (ECM) has detected that more exhaust gas is being recirculated than the system expects. This usually means the EGR valve is stuck open, a vacuum leak, or a faulty flow sensor, causing too much exhaust to re‑enter the intake.
P0402 EGR excessive flow. Clean passages, test valve. Step-by-step fix, parts, and repair cost estimate.
- Visual inspection of EGR components
- Scan live data for EGR position
- Test EGR valve operation
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0410: The engine control module has detected that the secondary‑air injection (SAI) system is not delivering the extra air needed during cold‑start enrichment. This leads to a richer mixture, higher emissions, and a illuminated check‑engine light.
Step‑by‑step guide to diagnosing and fixing OBD‑II code P0410. Includes safety tips, cost estimates, vehicle‑specific notes, and emissions impact.
- Visual Inspection & Quick Check
- Battery Disconnect & Reset
- Live Data Scan – SAI Valve Duty Cycle
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0411: The engine control module (ECM) has detected that the secondary‑air injection (SAI) system is delivering too little or too much air compared with the PCM’s command. The pump, valve, wiring, or sensor data are usually at fault.
P0411 = secondary air injection flow is wrong. Diagnose in 20 min — top causes, step-by-step fix, repair cost, and DIY safety tips.
- Visual Inspection – Loose cap or disconnected hose
- Scan Tool Freeze‑Frame & Live Data Review
- Pump Electrical Test
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0420: The P0420 code means your catalytic converter is not cleaning exhaust gases as efficiently as it should. The downstream oxygen sensor detects that the catalyst is underperforming compared to the upstream sensor readings.
Fix OBD‑II code P0420: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold. Step‑by‑step diagnosis and repair guide for Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevy and other vehicles (updated for 2026).
- Check for other stored codes first
- Inspect the oxygen sensors
- Check for exhaust leaks
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0421: The P0421 code indicates that the warm-up catalyst efficiency is below the threshold for Bank 1, which means the catalytic converter is not functioning properly during the warm-up phase. This can lead to increased emissions and decreased fuel efficiency. The code is triggered when the engine control module (ECM) detects that the catalytic converter is not reaching the required temperature during the warm-up phase, which is typically between 400°C to 600°C.
Fix OBD-II code P0421 with our step-by-step guide. Covers difference between P0420 and P0421. Free DIY repair guide with tools, parts & cost estimates for...
- Step 1: Check for Loose or Faulty Connections
- Step 2: Monitor Live Data PIDs
- Step 3: Check Freeze Frame Data
P0430: The engine control module has determined that the catalytic converter on bank 2 is not cleaning the exhaust as efficiently as it should. The downstream oxygen sensor reports a higher‑than‑expected oxygen level, indicating the converter isn’t doing its job.
Fix OBD‑II code P0430: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2). Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair options, cost guide, and safety tips.
- Visual and Quick Sensor Check
- Live Data Scan – O₂ Sensor Waveforms
- Fuel Trim Verification
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0440: The engine control module has detected a problem with the evaporative emission (EVAP) system – the network that captures fuel vapors from the fuel tank and routes them to the engine for combustion. A fault means the system isn’t sealing or venting correctly, so vapors can escape or the system can’t be purged on command.
Fix OBD-II code P0440: EVAP Emission Control System Malfunction. Step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide.
- Check the gas cap and obvious visual clues
- Scan for stored and pending codes, read freeze‑frame data
- Test the EVAP purge valve operation
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0441: The engine control module has detected that the EVAP purge valve is allowing too much fuel vapor into the intake, or not closing properly. This abnormal purge flow trips the P0441 code and may affect emissions compliance.
Fix OBD-II code P0441: EVAP Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow. Step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide.
- Check Gas Cap and EVAP Hoses
- Scan Live Data for Purge Valve Duty Cycle
- Test the Purge Valve Solenoid
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0442: The engine control module has found a small leak in the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. This system captures fuel vapors from the tank and stores them in a charcoal canister. A tiny leak lets vapors escape, triggering the P0442 code.
Fix OBD-II code P0442: EVAP System Leak Detected (Small Leak). Step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide.
- Read the diagnostic trouble code
P0443: The engine control module has detected a problem with the electrical circuit that operates the EVAP purge control valve. The valve may be stuck open, stuck closed, or the wiring/connector may be shorted or open, preventing the system from properly purging fuel vapors.
Fix OBD-II code P0443: EVAP Purge Control Valve Circuit Malfunction. Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair guide, make‑specific notes, and 2026 cost estimates.
- Check the gas cap and obvious visual issues
- Read live data and freeze‑frame information
- Test the purge valve resistance
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0446: The engine control module has detected a problem with the vent control circuit of the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. The vent valve or its wiring isn’t opening or closing when the computer commands it, so fuel vapors cannot be vented properly.
Fix OBD‑II code P0446: EVAP Vent Control Circuit Malfunction. Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair guide, cost guide, and emissions impact.
- Check the gas cap and visual inspection
- Scan live data for vent valve command
- Test voltage at the vent valve supply
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0449: The engine control module has detected a problem with the vent valve or its control circuit in the evaporative‑emission (EVAP) system. The valve may not open/close when commanded, or the wiring may be shorted, open, or have abnormal resistance.
Fix OBD‑II code P0449: EVAP Vent Valve/Solenoid Circuit Malfunction. Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair costs, and safety tips.
- Visual inspection of the vent valve and wiring
- Check for loose or missing gas cap
- Scan live data for vent valve command and status
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0451: The engine control module has detected that the EVAP‑system pressure sensor is reporting values outside its calibrated range. The cause is usually a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or an over‑pressurized EVAP system.
P0451 = EVAP pressure sensor range/performance. Fix in 30 min — symptoms, top causes, step-by-step diagnosis, and parts cost.
- Inspect the gas cap and connector
- Read live sensor voltage
- Test sensor power supply
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0452: The engine control module has detected that the pressure sensor in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system is reporting a voltage lower than the expected range. In plain English, the sensor that tells the computer how much pressure is in the fuel‑vapour tank isn’t sending a strong enough signal.
Fix OBD-II code P0452: EVAP Pressure Sensor Low Input. Step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide.
- Check the gas cap and visual inspection
- Scan live data for EVAP sensor voltage
- Test sensor resistance with a multimeter
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0455: The engine control module has sensed a large leak in the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. The leak is big enough that the system can’t hold pressure during the self‑test, so the PCM sets the P0455 code.
Fix OBD-II code P0455: EVAP System Leak Detected (Gross Leak). Step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide.
- Read the diagnostic trouble code
P0456: The engine control module has sensed a tiny leak in the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system, usually less than 0.05 psi. The leak lets fuel vapors escape, triggers the check‑engine light, and can prevent the EVAP monitor from completing.
Fix OBD‑II code P0456: EVAP System Leak Detected (Very Small Leak). Step‑by‑step diagnosis, repair guide, cost guide, and safety tips.
- Check the gas cap
- Inspect visible EVAP hoses and connections
- Test the EVAP pressure sensor (P‑sensor) reading
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0457: The P0457 code signals an evaporative‑emission (EVAP) system leak that the power‑train control module (PCM) detects during its self‑check. The most common source is a loose, damaged, or missing fuel‑cap, but the leak can also originate from hoses, the canister, purge or vent valves, or the fuel‑tank itself.
Fix OBD‑II code P0457 with a step‑by‑step guide. Learn how to locate EVAP leaks, replace a faulty fuel cap, and avoid emissions‑test failures. Includes...
- Step 1 – Verify the Fuel Cap
- Step 2 – Visual Inspection of EVAP Hoses & Connections
- Step 3 – Smoke Test for Small Leaks
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0496: The PCM has detected that the EVAP purge valve is allowing more vapor flow than expected during the purge cycle, indicating a possible stuck-open valve or wiring issue.
P0496 EVAP flow during non-purge. Diagnose purge valve and hoses. DIY steps and repair cost range.
- Check the gas cap and visible hoses
- Read live data for purge flow
- Test the purge valve resistance
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0498: The PCM has detected that the vent valve in the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system is not receiving enough voltage or signal. This usually means a low‑voltage condition, an open circuit, or a faulty valve, preventing fuel vapors from venting properly.
Learn what P0498 means, why it trips, and how to fix it. Quick DIY steps, cost estimates, and common makes like Ford, Chevy, Toyota. Get your car...
- Check gas cap and EVAP lines
- Inspect vent valve connector
- Test vent valve resistance
- ...see all 6 steps →
P1456: The P1456 code indicates a gross leak in the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) related to the fuel tank. This system prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. A gross leak means a significant amount of fuel vapor is escaping, which can cause performance issues and increased emissions.
Fix OBD-II code P1456 with our step-by-step guide. Learn what it means, causes, and DIY repairs. Covers codigo obd p1456 honda crv. Free DIY repair guide...
- Check the Gas Cap
- Inspect the EVAP System
- Check the Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor
- ...see all 5 steps →
P1457: The engine control module has sensed that the evaporative emissions (EVAP) control canister is leaking. Fuel vapors are escaping from the canister or its plumbing instead of being stored for later purge.
P1457 Honda/Acura EVAP canister leak: symptoms, safe to drive?, diagnosis steps, parts, and repair cost range.
- Check the Gas Cap and Visual Inspection
- Read Live Data for EVAP Pressure Sensor
- Perform a Smoke Test
- ...see all 5 steps →
P2002: The P2002 code indicates that your vehicle's diesel particulate filter (DPF) is not functioning efficiently. The DPF is designed to capture soot and other pollutants from the exhaust gas. When the filter becomes clogged or fails, it can cause this code to appear. This issue can lead to decreased engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P2002, indicating diesel particulate filter efficiency below threshold. Get cost estimates, DIY steps, and...
- Check for obvious issues
- Scan for additional codes
- Check DPF pressure sensor
- ...see all 4 steps →
P2096: The P2096 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a lean fuel mixture in the exhaust gases after the catalytic converter (Bank 1). This suggests that there's too much air and not enough fuel in the exhaust gases, which can be caused by various factors, including faulty oxygen sensors, clogged fuel injectors, or vacuum leaks.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P2096, indicating a post-catalyst fuel trim system that's too lean (Bank 1). Get cost estimates, DIY steps, and safety...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Monitor Live Data PIDs
- ...see all 6 steps →
P2097: P2097 tells the engine computer that the fuel trim after the catalytic converter on bank 1 is running too rich. In plain language, the engine is adding more fuel than needed downstream of the catalyst, which can foul the catalyst and hurt fuel economy.
Learn what the P2097 code means, why it appears on Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Chevrolet, and how to fix it yourself. Includes step‑by‑step diagnostics, cost...
- Secure the fuel cap and sensor connector
- Read live O₂ sensor data
- Search for intake or vacuum leaks
- ...see all 6 steps →
P2440: The P2440 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the secondary air injection switching valve is stuck open on bank 1. This valve helps reduce emissions by injecting air into the exhaust system. A stuck open valve can cause the engine to run rich, leading to decreased performance and fuel efficiency.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P2440, Secondary Air Injection Switching Valve Stuck Open (Bank 1). Get cost estimates, DIY steps & common vehicles...
- Check for obvious issues
- Scan for additional codes
- Check the secondary air injection switching valve
- ...see all 5 steps →
SYMPTOM-FAILED-EMISSIONS: The powertrain control module has determined that the vehicle did not meet the required emissions standards during a recent test. It usually means a sensor, leak, or catalyst isn’t working within spec.
Fix OBD-II code SYMPTOM-FAILED-EMISSIONS: Failed emissions test — common codes and fixes. Step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide.
- Check the gas cap and obvious visual issues
- Read live data and freeze‑frame info
- Test the primary oxygen sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- ...see all 7 steps →
Understanding Powertrain Emissions Codes
Powertrain Emissions diagnostic trouble codes are set by your vehicle's onboard computer (ECU/PCM) when it detects a problem in the emissions system. Here's what you need to know:
- How codes are triggered: Sensors monitor emissions performance. When readings fall outside expected ranges, the ECU stores a DTC and illuminates the check engine light.
- Freeze frame data: When a code is set, the ECU also records engine conditions at that moment. This data helps pinpoint the exact cause.
- Pending vs. confirmed: A code becomes "confirmed" after multiple drive cycles with the same fault. Pending codes may clear on their own.
Tools You'll Need for Diagnosis
- OBD-II scanner — Essential for reading and clearing codes. A basic scanner works for most codes.
- Digital multimeter — For testing sensor voltages, resistance, and continuity.
- Repair manual — Vehicle-specific wiring diagrams and specifications.
- Safety equipment — Gloves, safety glasses, jack stands for under-vehicle work.
When to See a Mechanic
While many emissions codes can be diagnosed at home, see a professional if:
- The code is critical severity — driving may cause further damage
- Multiple related codes are present — suggests a deeper systemic issue
- You don't have the tools or experience for the required diagnostic steps
- The repair involves fuel system, exhaust, or catalytic converter work