HomeTrouble CodesP2499

P2499 — Egr Cooler Bypass Position Sensor Circuit Low Bank 2

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P2499 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a voltage signal from the EGR cooler bypass position sensor on Bank 2 that is below the expected minimum threshold. This typically means the sensor circuit is shorted to ground, open, or the sensor itself has failed internally. The code specifically applies to the sensor that monitors the position of the bypass valve that diverts exhaust gas around the EGR cooler on the second bank of the engine.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed EGR cooler bypass position sensor

The internal sensor has developed a short to ground or open circuit, causing the low voltage signal. This is the most common failure as the sensor operates in a high-temperature environment.

2. Short to ground in sensor wiring

The signal wire between the sensor and PCM has chafed against the frame or engine, creating a path to ground that pulls the circuit voltage low.

3. Open circuit in sensor harness

A break in the reference voltage, ground, or signal wire prevents proper voltage from reaching the PCM, resulting in a reading below threshold.

4. Corroded or damaged connector

Moisture intrusion or oxidation at the sensor electrical connector increases resistance or creates a short, affecting the voltage signal.

5. Faulty PCM

Internal failure of the PCM's analog-to-digital converter or reference voltage supply is rare but possible after verifying all wiring and sensors are good.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Inspect the EGR cooler bypass valve connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or chafing
  2. Measure the sensor signal voltage with a digital multimeter; look for near-zero volts with key on/engine off
  3. Check continuity between the sensor signal pin and PCM, and verify no short to ground exists in the harness
  4. Test the sensor resistance and compare to manufacturer specifications; replace if out of range
  5. Verify the PCM supplies correct reference voltage to the sensor circuit
  6. Clear codes and monitor data stream to confirm proper voltage range during valve operation

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

Do I need to replace the engine computer (PCM) to fix P2499?

No. PCM failure is extremely unlikely for this code. The problem is almost always a faulty sensor, wiring short to ground, or connector corrosion. Replace the PCM only after exhaustively testing all wiring and sensors.

Can I continue driving with this code active?

Short trips are possible but not recommended. The vehicle may enter limp mode, and emissions will exceed legal limits. Prolonged operation can damage other components.

Is the EGR cooler bypass valve the same as the EGR valve?

No. The cooler bypass valve diverts exhaust gas around the EGR cooler when the engine is cold to improve warm-up time, while the main EGR valve controls exhaust flow into the intake manifold.

Why does this code specify Bank 2?

On V-type engines, Bank 2 refers to the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder number one. This code indicates the fault is isolated to that specific side of the engine.