OBD-II fault code

P2498: EGR Cooler Bypass Position Sensor Range or Performance Bank 2

What it means

Same as P2493 on bank 2. EGR mixes inert exhaust into intake to lower combustion peak temperature — too little raises NOx, too much causes misfires and rough running.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test

How it works

The EGR cooler bypass valve on Bank 2 routes exhaust around or through the cooler, and its position sensor reports valve movement to the control module. This code sets when Bank 2 feedback is within a plausible range but does not track the commanded bypass position as expected.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Faulty or misaligned position sensor
  2. Bypass valve sticking or binding
  3. Actuator failing to reach commanded position
  4. Damaged wiring or poor connector contact

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Pinging or knocking under load
  • Power loss and hesitation
  • Possible rough idle
  • Failed emissions inspection (NOx)

How to diagnose it

  1. Read freeze-frame data and compare commanded and reported Bank 2 bypass positions to identify when the mismatch occurs.
  2. Inspect the Bank 2 sensor, actuator, connector, and harness for misalignment, binding, heat damage, or poor contact.
  3. Use live data while commanding the bypass through its operating range, if supported, and check whether Bank 2 feedback follows smoothly.
  4. Check the Bank 2 valve and actuator for sticking or restricted movement if the reported position lags or stops.
  5. Test the Bank 2 sensor signal, reference, ground, and wiring continuity against the manufacturer's specification before replacing components.

Common fixes

  • Clean and secure the Bank 2 sensor connector or repair damaged wiring.
  • Correct a misaligned Bank 2 bypass position sensor.
  • Free a sticking Bank 2 bypass valve if it can be serviced.
  • Replace a faulty Bank 2 position sensor or actuator after confirming the fault.

Can I keep driving?

You can usually drive gently for a short time if the engine runs smoothly, but avoid heavy loads if it pings, hesitates, or loses power. Continued operation can increase NOx emissions and may worsen drivability.

A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together

This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.

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