P204A Chevrolet Model Diagnostic Trouble Code

P204A Chevrolet Model code definition:
P204A is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Chevrolet Model.

P204A Chevrolet Model is described as Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 2 Sensor 1. This code appears when the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control module in other brands) remains at or close the 0.450 set voltage point. The spark should have a light tan color. If the sensor probe comes with white and chalky parts, this means it has been lagging between switching phases, and should be replaced.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P204A Chevrolet Model diagnostic trouble code may include:

Lack of power
Faulty O2 Sensor
Poor acceleration
Rich or lean exhaust

Possible Causes :

Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.

Common Misdiagnoses

IC Circuit High Voltage Problem
Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem

Repair Processes :

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. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. If the engine displays a miss and there wasn't a code, determine which cylinder is misfiring. If the exhaust manifold is visible, spay or pour a small amount of water on each cylinder exhaust port. Water will evaporate immediately on good cylinders and slowly on the missing cylinder. If this can't be accomplished pull the plugs and check the condition.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P204A Chevrolet Model 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 P204A Chevrolet Model.

Fortunately, P204A Chevrolet Model is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.