Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) Efficiency Below Threshold
2009-2013 Audi A3 2.0L TDI
Description
The diesel oxidation catalyst efficiency has dropped below the acceptable level. The DOC oxidizes CO and HC and raises exhaust temperature for DPF regeneration.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- DPF regeneration may be affected
- Higher CO and HC emissions
- Failed emissions test
- Exhaust smell
- DPF soot loading increasing
Common Causes
- DOC catalyst degradation
- Fuel sulfur contamination
- Oil consumption contaminating DOC
- Exhaust leak before DOC
- DOC temperature sensor error
Diagnostic Steps
- Compare DOC inlet and outlet temperatures during warm-up
- Check hydrocarbon conversion efficiency
- Inspect DOC for physical damage
- Test exhaust temperature sensors
- Check for exhaust leaks before DOC
Repair Notes
Replace diesel oxidation catalyst. Address root cause of contamination (oil consumption, fuel quality). Check DPF system operation after DOC replacement.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P3880 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P3880 mean on a 2009-2013 Audi A3?
P3880 stands for "Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) Efficiency Below Threshold". The diesel oxidation catalyst efficiency has dropped below the acceptable level. The DOC oxidizes CO and HC and raises exhaust temperature for DPF regeneration.
What are the symptoms of P3880 on a Audi A3?
Common symptoms of P3880 include: Check Engine Light, DPF regeneration may be affected, Higher CO and HC emissions, Failed emissions test, Exhaust smell, DPF soot loading increasing.
What causes P3880 on a 2009-2013 Audi A3?
Common causes of P3880 include: DOC catalyst degradation, Fuel sulfur contamination, Oil consumption contaminating DOC, Exhaust leak before DOC, DOC temperature sensor error.