AutoCodes – GMC – B051A GMC

B051A GMC Code - Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The Assist Step Control (ASC) Module controls the running board actuators to extend or retract the running boards. Common causes include Faulty Left Side Assist Step Motor, Left Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted, Left Side Assist Step Motor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: B051A GMC indicates Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Side Assist Step Motor, Left Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted, Left Side Assist Step Motor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 2,494

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 13, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B051A GMC Description

The Assist Step Control (ASC) Module controls the running board actuators to extend or retract the running boards. Each actuator consists of an electric motor and a potentiometer. The module supplies a low reference and 10-volt reference source voltage to the potentiometer. The ASC control module monitors the voltage drop across the potentiometer on the position signal circuit. When the actuator shaft rotates, the voltage on the position signal circuit changes. The ASC control module supplies the actuator motor with a 12-volt control circuit and a ground control circuit. The ASC module controls the direction of the actuator by changing the polarity of the control circuits.

OBDII Code B051A GMC - Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B051A GMC Code - Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B051A GMC?

Faulty Left Side Assist Step Motor
Left Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted
Left Side Assist Step Motor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Assist Step Control (ASC) Module

How to Fix the DTC B051A GMC?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B051A:0B Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Current Above Threshold
B051A:01 Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Short to Battery
B051A:02 Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Short to Ground
B051A:04 Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Open Circuit

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B051A GMC code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific GMC Models

B051A 2014 GMC Sierra — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2015 GMC Sierra — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2016 GMC Sierra — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2017 GMC Sierra — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2018 GMC Sierra — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B051A GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B051A GMC related to the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit?

- The common symptoms include malfunctioning or inoperative left side assist step, difficulty in deploying or retracting the step, and an illuminated warning light on the dashboard.

2. What could be the possible causes of OBDII code B051A GMC?

- The code B051A GMC can be caused by issues such as a faulty assist step motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B051A GMC for the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit?

- To diagnose the issue, you can use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the trouble codes, inspect the wiring and connectors for any damage, test the assist step motor functionality, and check the control module for faults.

4. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code B051A GMC?

- Repair tips may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors, replacing the faulty assist step motor, reprogramming the control module if needed, and clearing the trouble codes with a diagnostic scanner.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B051A GMC active?

- It is generally safe to drive with this code, but it is recommended to address the issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the left side assist step and avoid any potential safety hazards.

6. Can I reset OBDII code B051A GMC without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the trouble code with a diagnostic scanner, it is important to address the root cause of the issue to prevent the code from reoccurring and ensure the proper operation of the left side assist step.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B051A GMC for the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may involve expenses for parts such as the assist step motor, labor costs for diagnosis and repair, and any additional components needed.

8. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B051A GMC?

- It's recommended to check with the manufacturer or authorized dealerships for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this specific OBDII code to see if there are known issues or remedies available.

9. Can weather conditions affect the operation of the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit triggering OBDII code B051A GMC?

- Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, can potentially affect the operation of the control circuit or assist step motor, leading to the triggering of the B051A GMC trouble code.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B051A GMC from occurring in the future?

- Regular maintenance checks, keeping the wiring and connectors in good condition, and addressing any issues with the assist step promptly can help prevent the recurrence of OBDII code B051A GMC related to the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit.