OBD-II fault code

P24B1: Particulate Matter Sensor Circuit High

What it means

Same as P24AE with the signal voltage above the plausible range. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.

At a glance

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

How it works

The particulate matter (PM) sensor in the exhaust measures soot passing through the aftertreatment system, and its control module monitors the sensor signal circuit. This code sets when the signal voltage is higher than the module considers plausible, which can point to a short to supply or a poor connection.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Signal shorted to supply
  2. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
  3. Supply wire pinched against B+ source

Symptoms

  • Check-engine light on
  • Possible emissions warning
  • Possible reduced engine power

How to diagnose it

  1. Use a scan tool to record freeze-frame data and check whether the PM sensor signal is currently high or the fault is stored from an earlier event.
  2. Inspect the PM sensor connector and nearby harness for water, corrosion, pushed-back pins, chafing, or contact with a power source.
  3. With the code active, gently move the harness while watching the signal data to see whether it changes.
  4. Check the signal wire for an unintended connection to supply and verify connector contact condition using the manufacturer's wiring information.
  5. If the wiring and connector pass inspection, test the PM sensor and its circuit against the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure before replacing parts.

Common fixes

  • Repair chafed wiring that is contacting a supply wire.
  • Clean and secure the PM sensor connector, or repair damaged pins.
  • Restore a damaged connector seal to prevent water ingress.
  • Replace the PM sensor if testing confirms its signal output is faulty.

Can I keep driving?

If the vehicle runs normally, a short, cautious trip to a repair location is generally reasonable, but avoid heavy loads if reduced power occurs. The fault can impair particulate monitoring and trigger an emissions warning.

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.

Codes for the same component

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