OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)
P208B Reductant Pump A Control Performance/Stuck Off
DEF pump A receives a run command but does not start, or shuts off prematurely — pump performance is below threshold.
Is it safe to drive with P208B?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelyPump motor seized — DEF crystallised inside pump head
- PossibleMotor brushes worn
- Less likelyCarbon or debris buildup preventing free movement
Symptoms
- Check engine light or NOx warning on
- AdBlue/DEF level or quality warning
- Possible no-start countdown after ignore period
- Failed emissions inspection (NOx)
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Medium
- DIY friendly
- Best left to a mechanic
- Typical labour
- 1–3.5 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- Parts involved
- Reductant Pump
Related codes
- P208AReductant Pump A Control Circuit/Open
- P20FBReductant Pump B Control Performance/Stuck Off
- P2088Camshaft Position A Actuator Control Circuit Low (Bank 1)
- P2089Camshaft Position A Actuator Control Circuit High (Bank 1)
- P208CReductant Pump A Control Circuit Low
- P208DReductant Pump A Control Circuit High
- P208EReductant Injection Valve Stuck Closed (Bank 1 Unit 1)
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.