AutoCodes – GMC – B051D 2016 GMC Sierra

B051D 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit

Q: 1. What does the OBDII code B051D mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

B051D indicates an issue with the Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit, which monitors the position of the power-retractable side step.

Q: 2. What are the common symptoms of a B051D code?

Common symptoms include the right-side assist step not retracting or deploying properly, or the step becoming stuck in one position.

Q: 3. What causes the B051D code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a faulty position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning control module, or mechanical obstructions in the assist step mechanism.

Q: 4. Can I still use my truck if the B051D code is active?

Yes, you can still drive the truck, but the right-side assist step may not function properly, which could be inconvenient or pose a safety risk when entering or exiting the vehicle.

Q: 5. How do I diagnose the B051D code?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, checking for mechanical obstructions in the assist step, and testing the position sensor for proper function.

Q: 6. How do I fix the B051D code on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the position sensor, repairing damaged wiring, clearing obstructions, or reprogramming the control module if necessary.

Q: 7. How much does it cost to repair a B051D code?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $500, depending on whether you need to replace the position sensor, fix wiring, or address mechanical issues.

Q: 8. Can I clear the B051D code without fixing the issue?

You can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, but it will likely return if the underlying problem isnâ€™t resolved.

Q: 9. Is the B051D code a common issue on GMC Sierra trucks?

Itâ€™s not extremely common, but it can occur, especially if the truck regularly operates in harsh environments that may damage the assist step components.

Q: 10. Can a faulty assist step motor cause the B051D code?

While the code specifically relates to the position sensor circuit, a faulty motor could indirectly contribute by preventing the step from moving correctly, so it should also be inspected.

Quick Answer

The Assist Step Control (ASC) Module controls the running board actuators to extend or retract the running boards. Common causes include Faulty Right Side Assist Step Motor, Right Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted, Right 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: B051D 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Side Assist Step Motor, Right Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted, Right 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 229

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 B051D 2016 GMC Sierra 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 B051D 2016 GMC Sierra - Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B051D 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B051D 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

How to Fix the DTC B051D 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

B051D:01 Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Short to Battery
B051D:02 Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Short to Ground
B051D:22 Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Low Time < Minimum
B051D:29 Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Too Few Pulses
B051D:2A Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Too Many Pulses
B051D:62 Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Actuator Stuck Open
B051D:63 Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit Actuator Stuck Closed

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B051D 2016 GMC Sierra 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.

Need more information about the B051D 2016 GMC Sierra code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 B051D 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code B051D mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

B051D indicates an issue with the Right Side Assist Step Position Sensor Circuit, which monitors the position of the power-retractable side step.

2. What are the common symptoms of a B051D code?

Common symptoms include the right-side assist step not retracting or deploying properly, or the step becoming stuck in one position.

3. What causes the B051D code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a faulty position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning control module, or mechanical obstructions in the assist step mechanism.

4. Can I still use my truck if the B051D code is active?

Yes, you can still drive the truck, but the right-side assist step may not function properly, which could be inconvenient or pose a safety risk when entering or exiting the vehicle.

5. How do I diagnose the B051D code?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, checking for mechanical obstructions in the assist step, and testing the position sensor for proper function.

6. How do I fix the B051D code on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the position sensor, repairing damaged wiring, clearing obstructions, or reprogramming the control module if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair a B051D code?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $500, depending on whether you need to replace the position sensor, fix wiring, or address mechanical issues.

8. Can I clear the B051D code without fixing the issue?

You can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, but it will likely return if the underlying problem isnâ€™t resolved.

9. Is the B051D code a common issue on GMC Sierra trucks?

Itâ€™s not extremely common, but it can occur, especially if the truck regularly operates in harsh environments that may damage the assist step components.

10. Can a faulty assist step motor cause the B051D code?

While the code specifically relates to the position sensor circuit, a faulty motor could indirectly contribute by preventing the step from moving correctly, so it should also be inspected.