Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
The P2031 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $150 - $400 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on
- Reduced engine performance
- DPF regeneration issues on diesel vehicles
- Turbo protection mode activation
- Increased fuel consumption
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor Very High
- Damaged or corroded sensor wiring High
- Corroded sensor connector Moderate
- Exhaust leak near sensor location Moderate
- PCM fault Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Confirm P2031 with freeze frame data
-
Compare EGT sensor reading to expected temperature at idle
-
Inspect sensor connector and wiring for heat damage
-
Measure sensor resistance at room temperature and compare to spec
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P2031 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2008-2016 VW/Audi 2.0L TDI Common Rail moderate DIY
P2031 = EGT sensor bank 1 sensor 2 (between turbo and DPF) circuit low. The sensor is a 2-wire thermocouple-style. Replace with OE Bosch. Use VCDS to confirm the sensor reads open vs. just the low-end fault. Apply anti-seize sparingly and torque to spec -- overtightening cracks the thermocouple tip.
Labor: 1-2 hours2011-2019 Chevy Cruze/Equinox 2.0L Diesel moderate DIY
GM 2.0L LUZ diesel P2031 is the EGT sensor between the turbo and DPF. Access is from underneath. Sensor threads are heat-seized -- use penetrant and heat carefully (avoid the DPF substrate). Replace with AC Delco OE. Drive 50+ miles for adaptations to reset.
Labor: 1-2 hours2011-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 6.7L Power Stroke moderate DIY
6.7L P2031 = EGT sensor position 2 fault. There are 4 EGT sensors on 6.7L (positions 11-14). FORScan shows exact values. Replace with Motorcraft OE -- aftermarket EGT sensors often give incorrect readings and cause regen problems. Force a regen after replacement.
Labor: 1-2 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
What does P2031 mean?
P2031 indicates a malfunction in the Bank 1 Sensor 1 exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit, which monitors exhaust temperature before the turbo or catalytic converter.
Can I drive with a P2031 code?
You can drive short distances, but DPF regeneration may be affected on diesel vehicles. Turbo protection mode may limit power.
How much does it cost to fix P2031?
Repair costs typically range from $150 to $400, with the sensor itself costing $50-$150 and labor making up the rest.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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