P0287 Mercedes-benz W123 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0287 Mercedes-benz W123 code definition:
P0287 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Mercedes-benz W123.

P0287 Mercedes-benz W123 is a DTC or a diagnostic trouble code. It is a check engine light code which indicates that the catalyst's system efficiency is less than the required threshold. In simple terms, it means that more pollution is added into the air than what was supposed to be because of your car. So if the problem persists despite of your diagnosis, then you should never hesitate to take your vehicle to your dealer or to a qualified mechanic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0287 Mercedes-benz W123 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels
Vacuum leak on the engine
Diminished fuel efficiency
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.

Possible Causes :

Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.
Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.
Dirty air cleaner element Damaged DPF

Common Misdiagnoses

Vehicle Speed Output Circuit Problem
Cruise Control Servo Indicates Low Problem
A/C System High Pressure High Temperature Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem
Transmission Control Module Reprogrammable Memory Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust. It should be pretty close to battery voltage (12 volts). If not, then this is the circuit that has the problem.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0287 Mercedes-benz W123 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 P0287 Mercedes-benz W123.

Fortunately, P0287 Mercedes-benz W123 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.