Code P2257

TAYLORMARIAH20

MEMBER
2007 MERCURY MILAN
2.3L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
157,000 MILES

Took my car into AutoZone for a diagnostic test due to the check engine light being on. Code P2257 was the error code that came up and I was wondering if someone could explain I. Detail options on how to go about fixing this problem. I was thinking about replacing the piece all together but I’m not sure if it just needs to be unclogged? This is a picture of what I think is the secondary air injection system. Could anyone tell me if this is correct?

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1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,867 POSTS

The code indicates the secondary air pump has been commanded on, but isn't working. In general, either the pump is bad or there is a bad connection,

Take a look at pic 1 of the code and possible causes.

I would start with checking the relay. If you look at pics 2 and 3, I circled the location of the relay. Based on production date, it can be in one of two locations. Note build date at top of pic (pic 3). Pic 3 is early build prior to 9/4/2006.

If there is a relay with the same part number, switch them to see if you can get the light to go off. If there isn't, here is a link that explains how to test a relay:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

If it doesn't, check wiring and the connector at the pump.

Here are a few links you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

If you determine the pump needs replaced, here are the directions. Please understand, the code in and of itself doesn't indicate the pump is bad, but rather, the pump is off. It could be an electrical issue or the air pump itself.

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PROCEDURES
SECONDARY AIR PUMP

Part 1
pic 4

Part 2
pic 5

Exploded View

Removal and Installation
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.

pic 6

2. If equipped, remove the 7 screws and the underbody cover.
3. Disconnect the secondary air pump electrical connector.

pic 7

4. If equipped, release the 3 wire harness retainers from the secondary air pump hoses.
5. Release the clamp and remove the secondary air pump hose from the air inlet duct.
6. Release the clamp and remove the secondary air pump hose from the secondary air valve.

7. NOTE: Crimp style clamps retain the hoses to the secondary air pump, therefore the pump and hoses are removed as an assembly.

Remove the 3 bolts and the secondary air pump and hoses as an assembly.
- To install, tighten to 30 Nm (22 lb-ft).

8. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

____________________________

I hope this helps. Let me know if you run into trouble or have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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