AutoCodes – GMC – P0545 2016 GMC Sierra

P0545 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P0545 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 158

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 03, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0545 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Exhaust temperature sensor 1 is the first exhaust temperature sensor in the exhaust system, the following exhaust temperature sensors are counted upward from the engine outlet to the exhaust system end. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5 V to the exhaust gas temperature signal circuit and supplies a ground to the low reference circuit. The exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature information is used by the ECM during the exhaust gas particulate filter cleaning process. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will ve set when the ECM detects that the exhaust gas temperature sensor is less than 158 Ω for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P0545 2016 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0545 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0545 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0545 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

After starting the engine, the exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature should rise steadily, then stabilize after the engine reaches operating temperature. Exhaust gas temperature sensors may fail intermittently while operating under extreme temperatures. Review the Freeze Frame/Failure Records to verify the failure criteria.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0545 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 P0545 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0545 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0545 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0545 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0545 indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected low voltage in the Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor 1 Circuit, which monitors exhaust temperatures to optimize emissions and engine performance.

2. What are the symptoms of a P0545 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, potential engine performance issues, and possibly the vehicle entering limp mode.

3. What causes the P0545 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty EGT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the EGT sensor circuit, a short to ground, or a malfunctioning ECM.

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0545 code?

While it may be possible to drive the vehicle, it is not recommended. Prolonged driving with this code can lead to higher emissions, reduced engine efficiency, and potential damage to the exhaust system.

5. How do you diagnose a P0545 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis involves visually inspecting the EGT sensor and its wiring for damage, testing sensor resistance with a multimeter, checking for continuity in the circuit, and using a scan tool to monitor sensor readings.

6. How do you fix the P0545 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty EGT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or updating/reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P0545 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost can vary, but replacing the EGT sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300, including parts and labor. Wiring repairs or ECM reprogramming can add to the cost.

8. Can a dirty exhaust system cause the P0545 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

A dirty or clogged exhaust system is not a direct cause of this code, but it can contribute to sensor issues if excessive soot or debris damages the sensor.

9. How can I prevent the P0545 code from recurring on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Regular maintenance, including checking and cleaning sensor connections, using quality fuel, and addressing exhaust system issues promptly, can help prevent this code.

10. Does the P0545 code affect emissions testing on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, this code can cause your vehicle to fail emissions testing because the EGT sensor is critical for monitoring and controlling emissions.