AutoCodes – GMC – P0074 2016 GMC Sierra

P0074 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and signal circuit. Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0074 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 204

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 16, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0074 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and signal circuit. The ECM monitors the voltage drop across the sensor, which is inversely proportional to temperature. When the ambient air temperature is cold, the resistance of the sensor is high. When the ambient air temperature is warm, the resistance of the sensors is low. The engine control module converts the voltage value to a temperature value and sends the value to the Display Module via serial data. The Display Module displays the temperature. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects an unrealistic signal variance of the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor signal.

OBDII Code P0074 2016 GMC Sierra - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P0074 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0074 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0074 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0074 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 P0074 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0074 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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 P0074 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0074 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

- Common symptoms include inaccurate ambient air temperature readings on the vehicle's display, issues with the climate control system, and potential impact on fuel efficiency.

2. What does the OBDII code P0074 indicate in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

- The code P0074 indicates an intermittent fault in the circuit of the ambient air temperature sensor in the vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0074 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

- Possible causes include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or issues with the sensor's connection to the vehicle's computer.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0074 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

- Diagnosing the issue involves checking the ambient air temperature sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, testing the sensor's functionality, and scanning the system for any related trouble codes.

5. Can I continue driving my 2016 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P0074 present?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code, but it is recommended to address the underlying issue promptly to avoid potential complications with the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0074 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

- Repairing the code typically involves replacing the ambient air temperature sensor if it is found to be faulty, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the trouble code with a diagnostic tool.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0074 in a 2016 GMC Sierra without fixing the issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily with a diagnostic tool, it is crucial to address the underlying problem causing the fault to prevent the code from reappearing and ensure proper vehicle operation.

8. Are there any DIY repair tips for fixing OBDII code P0074 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

- DIY enthusiasts can attempt to replace the ambient air temperature sensor themselves if comfortable with basic automotive repairs, following the vehicle's service manual for guidance.

9. Can extreme weather conditions affect the ambient air temperature sensor and trigger OBDII code P0074 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

- Yes, extreme cold or hot weather conditions can sometimes impact the sensor's performance, leading to intermittent faults and triggering the OBDII code P0074 in the vehicle.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0074 in a 2016 GMC Sierra at a professional service center?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but replacing the ambient air temperature sensor and addressing related wiring problems usually takes around 1-2 hours at a service center.