AutoCodesGMC – P0546 2016 GMC Sierra

P0546 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High 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
P0546 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High 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 369
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 03, 2022
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Code P0546 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 greater than 900 Ω for greater than 2 s.
OBDII Code P0546 2016 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0546 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0546 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 P0546 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0546 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 P0546 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0546 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 P0546 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code P0546 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Code P0546 indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a high voltage reading from the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1, which monitors exhaust temperatures to protect the catalytic converter and optimize emissions.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0546 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the Check Engine Light turning on, poor fuel economy, reduced engine performance, and, in some cases, the engine entering limp mode.

3. What causes code P0546 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1, damaged or corroded wiring, a loose or poor electrical connection, or an issue with the ECM.

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with code P0546?

While the truck may still be drivable, continuing to operate it with this code can lead to increased emissions, reduced performance, and potential damage to the catalytic converter over time.

5. How is code P0546 diagnosed on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 and its wiring for damage, and test the voltage readings to identify the issue.

6. How do you fix code P0546 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the code with a scan tool after repairs.

7. How much does it cost to fix code P0546 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost depends on the exact issue, but replacing the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor typically ranges from $150 to $300, including parts and labor.

8. Can a dirty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor cause code P0546?

Yes, excessive soot or debris on the sensor can affect its readings, potentially triggering this code. Cleaning the sensor may be a temporary fix, but replacement is often necessary.

9. Where is Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 located on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Sensor 1 is typically located in the exhaust system, upstream of the catalytic converter, and monitors the temperature of the exhaust gases leaving the engine.

10. Can a bad ECM cause code P0546 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

While rare, a malfunctioning ECM could cause this code. However, it's more common for the issue to be related to the sensor or wiring.

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