P2576
Direct Ozone Reduction Catalyst Deterioration Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
Emissions (ozone-reduction catalyst monitor)
Generic OBD-II
Low
What it means
P2576 is a rare emissions-monitor code. Some low-emission vehicles carry a direct-ozone-reduction catalyst — a coating (often on the radiator) that converts ground-level ozone as air passes through. A sensor monitors that coating's condition, and P2576 sets when its circuit reads intermittently. It's an emissions-monitoring fault, so the engine runs normally and the effect is the warning light.
Low
Can I keep driving? Yes — this is an emissions-monitoring sensor on a special ozone-reduction catalyst. The engine runs normally and you'll usually only see the warning light.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- No noticeable drivability effect
- Emissions readiness monitor may not complete
- May cause an emissions-test failure
Common causes
Most likely first
- Intermittent connection at the deterioration-sensor connectorLikely
- Loose or corroded wiring that flexes with heat and vibrationCommon
- Failing deterioration sensor with an unstable outputCommon
- Less commonly, a fault in the ECM/PCMLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Confirm your vehicle actually uses a direct-ozone-reduction catalyst (fitted to certain low-emission models) and locate the sensor from the wiring diagram.
- Inspect the sensor connector and wiring for intermittent contact or corrosion.
- Wiggle-test the harness while watching live data for dropouts.
- Clean or repair the connector and secure the wiring.
- Replace the sensor if the signal stays erratic, then clear and retest.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2576?+
Yes. It affects an emissions monitor, not engine operation, so there's no drivability risk. It will keep the check-engine light on and can block an emissions test.
Can I just clear P2576?+
It returns if the intermittent wiring or sensor fault is still present, and the readiness monitor won't complete. Repair the connection first.
Related codes
Often seen with P2576
Read & clear P2576 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX