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P20EEModerateEmissions

P20EE: SCR NOx Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold

12 vehicles · 9 makes

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P20EE is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “SCR NOx Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold.” The selective catalytic reduction system is not reducing NOx emissions effectively. Common on diesel trucks with DEF systems. This code appears across 12 vehicle models from 9 manufacturers.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Vehicles (12)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ

Makes

  • Audi1
  • Chevrolet3
  • Ford1
  • Genesis1
  • GMC2
  • Land Rover1
  • Mercedes-Benz1
  • Peugeot2
  • RAM1
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Common Causes

1Poor quality DEF fluid
2Failed DEF injector
3Contaminated SCR catalyst
4DEF quality sensor fault
5Insufficient DEF dosing

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P20EE, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

by ANCEL

A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

  • Read & clear engine codes
  • View freeze frame data
  • I/M readiness status
  • No batteries or app needed
Check Price on Amazon
Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

by BlueDriver

Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
  • Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • Smog check readiness
  • Free app (iOS & Android)
Check Price on Amazon
Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

  • Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
  • Live data stream & graphing
  • AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Check Price on Amazon
Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

by Autel

Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

  • All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
  • Bi-directional control & active tests
  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
Check Price on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.

Vehicles Affected (12)

Q7Critical

TDI Diesel Emissions Scandal and Recalls (Dieselgate)

2009-2016$0-$3,0000 reports
ColoradoModerate

Diesel Emissions System Issues (DEF/DPF)

2016-2023$200-$2,500680 reports
Silverado 3500HDCritical

DEF System Malfunction and Reduced Power

2011-2025$300-$1,500380 reports
Silverado 3500HDModerate

DEF System and SCR Catalyst Failures

2011-2025$300-$2,5000 reports
TransitCritical

NOx Sensor / SCR DEF System Faults Causing Reduced Power (2.0L EcoBlue Diesel)

2018-2023$350-$1,80060 reports
GV80Moderate

Diesel NOx System Issues (International Markets)

2021-2023$400-$2,0000 reports
CanyonModerate

2.8L Duramax DEF System Faults and DPF Regeneration Issues

2016-2025$200-$3,500390 reports
Sierra 3500HDModerate

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Failures

2011-2020$300-$2,0000 reports
Range Rover VelarCritical

AdBlue/DEF System Faults and Injector Crystallization

2018-2024$500-$2,000780 reports
SprinterCritical

DEF/AdBlue SCR System Faults and Derate

2014-2025$500-$3,5001,900 reports
308Critical

AdBlue System Fault

2014-2026$300-$1,20065 reports
3008Critical

AdBlue System Malfunction

2017-2026$300-$1,20060 reports
2500Critical

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Failures

2013-2025$300-$3,5004,100 reports

Related Codes (8)

01447EVAP System (VAG)P0401Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow InsufficientP0402Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow ExcessiveP0403Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit MalfunctionP0404Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Range/PerformanceP0410Secondary Air Injection System MalfunctionP0411Secondary Air Injection System Incorrect Flow DetectedP0412Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve A Circuit

FAQ

What does P20EE mean?

P20EE stands for "SCR NOx Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold." The selective catalytic reduction system is not reducing NOx emissions effectively. Common on diesel trucks with DEF systems.

What are the most common causes of P20EE?

The most common causes of P20EE are: Poor quality DEF fluid, Failed DEF injector, Contaminated SCR catalyst, DEF quality sensor fault, Insufficient DEF dosing. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P20EE?

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.

Which vehicles are affected by P20EE?

Au7o has documented P20EE across 12 vehicle models from 9 manufacturers: Audi, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Genesis, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, RAM.

Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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