NOx Sensor Heater Circuit (Bank 2)
The P2215 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: NOx Sensor Heater Circuit (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $250 - $800 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on
- Slow Bank 2 sensor warm-up
- Failed emissions test
- Temporary reduced power on cold start
- Elevated cold-start NOx emissions
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed NOx sensor heater element on Bank 2 Very High
- Open or short in the Bank 2 heater circuit wiring High
- Blown fuse for the Bank 2 NOx sensor heater Moderate
- Poor ground connection for the Bank 2 heater circuit Moderate
- ECM Bank 2 heater driver failure Low
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P2215 the Bank 2 version of P2205?
Yes, P2205 covers the Bank 1 NOx sensor heater circuit and P2215 covers the Bank 2 NOx sensor heater circuit. The diagnostic approach is identical but on the opposite bank.
Can I drive without the Bank 2 NOx heater working?
You can drive, but the Bank 2 NOx sensor will take much longer to reach operating temperature, and the SCR system will not function properly during that time. You will also fail emissions tests.
Should I check the fuse before replacing the sensor?
Absolutely. A blown fuse is the cheapest possible fix and should always be checked first. If the fuse is blown, also investigate why it blew before simply replacing it.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check the Bank 2 NOx sensor heater fuse
-
Measure heater circuit resistance at the Bank 2 sensor connector
-
Verify power and ground at the connector with key on
-
Inspect wiring for opens or shorts between the ECM and Bank 2 sensor
-
Replace the Bank 2 NOx sensor if the internal heater has failed
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Commonly Affected Vehicles
- 2012-2020 Mercedes-Benz E250 BlueTEC
- 2013-2020 BMW 535d
- 2014-2020 Ram 3500 Cummins
- 2015-2020 Ford F-350 Power Stroke
- 2011-2019 Audi A6 TDI
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