P290A Amc Matador Diagnostic Trouble Code

P290A Amc Matador code definition:
P290A is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Amc Matador.

P290A Amc Matador is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. 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 P290A Amc Matador 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
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.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

You might continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. 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. Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P290A Amc Matador 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 P290A Amc Matador.

Fortunately, P290A Amc Matador is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.