P0286 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0286 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code.

It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles, although specific repair steps may be different depending on your car model.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0286 diagnostic trouble code may include:

The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Faulty PCM
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Hesitation upon acceleration

Possible Causes :

Some aftermarket accessories and performance modifications
A faulty oxygen sensor. This will set a code in itself, however, a faulty oxygen sensor does not automatically condemn the sensor. The code just means that the sensor signal was not within specifications. An air leak or any of the above will cause an erroneous signal. There is a multitude of O2 codes relating to O2 performance which gives a clue to the problematic area.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Repair Processes :

With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. If the scan tool has that capability, and the scan tool can operate the IMRC valves, then the problem is either resolved and a simple code clearing is all that's left or a new PCM would be called for.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0286 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before P0286.

Fortunately, P0286 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.

P0286 Trouble Code For Specific Cars

P0286 Cadillac Imaj Decklid Release Circuit Short To Ground
P0286 Proton Tiara Fuel Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0286 Willys-overland 77
P0286 Proton Saga Flx Fuel System Leak Detected Small Leak
P0286 Lamborghini Gallordo Shift/Timing Solenoid Malfunction/ 3-2 Shift Solenoid Circuit Electrical
P0286 Chevrolet Trailblazer Emergency Power Off System Faulted
P0286 Chevrolet Cobalt Driver Sid, Side crash sensor mount fault