What it means
The control module monitors the particulate matter sensor heater’s electrical resistance to check that it is within its expected range. It sets this code when the measured resistance falls outside the calibrated limits.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The PM sensor heater warms the sensor and helps remove soot from its measuring area. The control module checks the heater's electrical resistance, and this code sets when the measured resistance falls outside the calibrated range, indicating a possible damaged element or poor circuit connection.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Heater element worn or damaged
- Open or high-resistance heater wiring
- Poor connection at the sensor connector
- Fault in the heater control circuit
Symptoms
- Check-engine light on
- Particulate matter sensor or aftertreatment warning
- Emissions inspection failure
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and related heater codes to identify the conditions when resistance was judged out of range.
- Inspect the PM sensor heater connector and wiring for corrosion, loose pins, chafing, or heat damage.
- Check the heater element resistance and compare it with the manufacturer's specification.
- Measure the wiring and connector for unwanted resistance or an open circuit, following the manufacturer's wiring information.
- If the element and harness test correctly, investigate the heater control circuit using the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure a poor heater connector connection.
- Repair damaged or high-resistance heater wiring.
- Replace the PM sensor if its heater resistance is outside the manufacturer's specification.
- Repair the heater control circuit if testing identifies a circuit fault.
Can I keep driving?
If the vehicle runs normally, you can generally drive cautiously to arrange repair, but do not postpone it before an emissions inspection. An out-of-range heater can prevent the PM sensor from operating or clearing soot correctly.
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.