P2573: Direct Ozone Reduction Catalyst Deterioration Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
The DOR deterioration sensor is electrically intact but its readings drift or do not match the model — for example a deterioration value that does not move with km/h driven, or moves implausibly fast.
What P2573 means
P2573 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the emissions group. In plain English: the signal is within electrical limits but doesn’t make sense compared with other readings, so the part or system isn’t performing as expected.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- Yes — can fail inspection
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Failed emissions inspection
- Possibly slightly increased fuel consumption
- Sulfur (rotten egg) smell from exhaust under load
Common causes
- 01Aged sensor with offset driftMost likely
- 02Sensor element aged beyond calibration windowLess likely
- 03Sensor mounting loose - signal dampingLess likely
Can I drive with P2573?
Usually yes, for a short time.
The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. Left alone it can raise fuel use and emissions and will fail an OBD inspection. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
Why we rate it moderate
- Turns on the check engine light
- Emissions-related: will usually fail an OBD inspection
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P2573
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P2573. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Check for related codes first
Look for P2572. Related codes often share a cause; a circuit or sensor code usually needs fixing before a performance code like this one.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the dor deterioration sensor for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Aged sensor with offset drift; sensor element aged beyond calibration window; sensor mounting loose - signal damping. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P2573 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Dor deterioration sensor
P2573 FAQ
What does P2573 mean?
P2573 means “Direct Ozone Reduction Catalyst Deterioration Sensor Circuit Range/Performance”. The DOR deterioration sensor is electrically intact but its readings drift or do not match the model — for example a deterioration value that does not move with km/h driven, or moves implausibly fast.
Is P2573 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P2573 as moderate severity. Usually yes, for a short time. The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. Left alone it can raise fuel use and emissions and will fail an OBD inspection. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
What causes P2573?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Aged sensor with offset drift; Sensor element aged beyond calibration window; Sensor mounting loose - signal damping. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P2573?
Typical labor is about $65–$250 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P2573 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P2573 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.