What Is the P2457 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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The definition of code P2457 is “EGR Cooler A Efficiency Below Threshold,” sometimes listed as “Exhaust Gas Recirculation Cooling System Performance.” It means that the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has identified that the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler or cooling system is not performing as well as it’s supposed to. As an OBD-II generic powertrain code, this code can show up in all kinds of vehicles, but the EGR cooling system is almost exclusively limited to diesel vehicles and most frequently shows up in vehicles from Ford Motor Company.
More About Error Code P2457
Diesel engines release significantly more emissions than gasoline engines, and to limit the amount of emissions released by a diesel vehicle, car manufacturers have developed the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. This system delivers some exhaust gases back to the intake manifold, allowing the inert gas to take up some of the space that fresh fuel air charges would usually take up. The coolant system reduces the temperature of these exhaust gases before the vehicle moves them into the EGR valve; because nitrogen oxide (NOx) is produced by high temperature and pressure, this reduces the production of NOx. This code indicates that it isn’t working as well as it probably should be, with problems like insufficient EGR flow, general issues with cooler efficiency, and other issues with vehicle systems.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P2457 Code?
The P2457 code, relating to the emissions system, often has few symptoms. The most common symptom is that the check engine light will turn on, but you won’t notice any other drivability problems. If you notice other symptoms, they’re most likely to be diminished fuel efficiency, coolant leaks, exhaust leaks, and additional codes outside of this one. Your vehicle also won’t pass an emissions test. Occasionally, depending on the vehicle, this code might trigger “Limp Mode,” also called “Limp Home Mode,” where vehicle speed and other vehicle elements may be restricted to avoid damage.
What Are Some Causes of a P2457 Code?
Several possible causes are associated with the P2457 code, primarily concerning the EGR system itself. Possible causes of the P2457 error code include:
- Low engine coolant levels
- Defective or faulty EGR temperature sensor
- Defective or faulty exhaust temperature sensor
- Leaks in the engine coolant system
- Clogged or blocked EGR cooler
- Overheating engine
Determining the exact cause will require you to do some work to identify the core problem creating the P2457 code issues.
How Serious Is the P2457 Code?
The P2457 code is usually not especially serious, as it’s just an emissions code. However, if the code puts the vehicle into “Limp Mode,” it can become much more serious, as this code can make it extremely difficult to drive normally. Additionally, even though the code isn’t exceptionally serious, fixing it as soon as possible is still good. If part of the code has to do with coolant leaks or issues with fuel economy, it’s much safer and more effective to fix the code now.
Can I Still Drive with a P2457 Code?
You will usually still be able to drive with the P2457 code. This code rarely results in active issues with drivability and will often create no symptoms. However, you should still avoid driving with this code active. Not only are the excess emissions often a problem, as no one wants to send out more toxic gases than necessary, but you might be using more fuel than necessary to drive. That means fixing the problem could save you money.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P2457 Code?
Because the P2457 code is a generic code, which doesn’t have much information outside of the fact that one of the sensors is indicating a function below the ideal level, the diagnostic process for this fault code can be quite difficult. You’ll need to be able to conduct diagnostic tests yourself, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution to determine the underlying issue. If you’re not confident with this, you should talk to an expert, as a misdiagnosis can require a separate repair order later.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P2457 Code?
The inspection process for the P2457 code is often just as difficult as the diagnostic process and sometimes even more difficult. Because there’s no one-size-fits-all fix, you need access to tools like a code scanner and a vehicle information source, which may include technical service bulletins, wiring diagrams, and more. You may need to perform a battery test, check the fluid temperature, and look at other vehicle systems that you aren’t extremely familiar with. If you don’t feel like you can inspect the P2457 code, talk to a certified mechanic instead of trying to do it yourself.
Need Additional Help with Your P2457 Code?
The P2457 code is a common code requiring additional help, so if you talk to a professional mechanic, you should get a complete fix.
First, you’ll want to find an auto repair shop in your area. A local automobile repair shop will be able to help you fix your problem while also being as convenient as possible.
It’s also a good idea to check out the OBD-II database at KBB.com. This database will give you insight into any other error codes on your automotive scanner, ensuring you fix the complete problem.
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