P203E OBD II Trouble Code Reductant Level Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

How to quickly diagnose, repair, and causes of a P203E diagnostic code which indicates an erratic or intermittent reading from the reductant level sensor circuit.

Symptoms of P203E OBD II Trouble Code

  • Incorrect DEF (Diesel exhaust fluid) level reading
  • Exhaust emissions outside of specifications
  • CEL (Check engine light) on
  • Excessive smoke
  • "Low" or other DEF warning on instrument cluster

Common Causes of P203E OBD II Trouble Code

  • Reductant level sensor defective
  • Wrong fluid in DEF storage tank
  • Broken wire or harness causing intermittent electrical connections
  • Electrical short

Severity of P203E OBD II Trouble Code

I would say this is a fairly minor code considering the possibilities. Essentially we are talking about a fault in a system that monitors what happens after it is already burnt and used. That said, most state/countries' emissions standards are fairly strict so it's a good idea to address this before it does more harm to your vehicle, not to mention the atmosphere!