AutoCodes – GMC – P0546 GMC

P0546 GMC 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 GMC 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 2,822

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 P0546 GMC 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 GMC - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0546 GMC Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0546 GMC?

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 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

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 P0546 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.

Need more information about the P0546 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0546 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0546 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

P0546 2014 GMC Sierra — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage
P0546 2015 GMC Sierra — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage
P0546 2016 GMC Sierra — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage
P0546 2017 GMC Sierra — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage
P0546 2018 GMC Sierra — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage

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 GMC Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0546 GMC?

The common symptoms of code P0546 include reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What does the OBDII code P0546 GMC indicate?

OBDII code P0546 indicates a high voltage condition in the circuit of Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 in a GMC vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0546 GMC?

Common causes of code P0546 include a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, wiring issues, a damaged sensor connector, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0546 GMC?

Diagnosing code P0546 involves checking the exhaust gas temperature sensor and its wiring for damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and inspecting the sensor connector for any signs of corrosion or loose connections.

5. Can I drive my GMC with OBDII code P0546?

It is not recommended to drive your GMC with code P0546 present, as it can lead to further damage to the engine and emissions system. It is best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0546 GMC?

Repairing code P0546 typically involves replacing the exhaust gas temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, and ensuring proper connection of the sensor to the ECM.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0546 GMC without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is not recommended to reset the code without addressing the underlying issue, as it will likely reoccur and potentially cause more severe problems.

8. Can a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor cause other issues besides triggering code P0546?

Yes, a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter if left unresolved.

9. How much does it cost to replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor for OBDII code P0546 GMC?

The cost of replacing the exhaust gas temperature sensor can vary depending on the specific GMC model, the labor rates of the repair shop, and whether genuine OEM parts are used. It is advisable to obtain quotes from different sources.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0546 in a GMC vehicle?

Regular maintenance of the exhaust system, including checking the condition of the exhaust gas temperature sensor and its wiring, can help prevent the occurrence of code P0546 in a GMC vehicle.