AutoCodesGMC – P0650 2016 GMC Sierra

P0650 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Malfunction Indicator Lamp Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminates to inform the driver that an emission system fault has occurred, and the powertrain control system requires service. Common causes include Faulty Instrument Cluster, Instrument Cluster harness is open or shorted, Instrument Cluster 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
P0650 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Malfunction Indicator Lamp Control Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Instrument Cluster, Instrument Cluster harness is open or shorted, Instrument Cluster 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 420
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 18, 2022
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Code P0650 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminates to inform the driver that an emission system fault has occurred, and the powertrain control system requires service. Ignition voltage is supplied directly to the MIL. The Engine Control Module (ECM) turns the MIL ON by grounding the MIL control circuit when the emission system fault occurs. Under normal operating conditions, the MIL should be ON only when the ignition is ON, and the engine is OFF. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects low voltage during the MIL control circuit driver OFF state. This indicates either a shorted to ground or an open MIL control circuit.
OBDII Code P0650 2016 GMC Sierra - Malfunction Indicator Lamp Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P0650 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Malfunction Indicator Lamp Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0650 2016 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Instrument Cluster
  • Instrument Cluster harness is open or shorted
  • Instrument Cluster circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0650 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 P0650 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 P0650 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 P0650 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0650 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0650 indicates a problem with the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Control Circuit, which means the check engine light may not function correctly.

2. What are the common symptoms of P0650 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The most common symptom is that the check engine light does not illuminate when there’s an issue. In some cases, the light may stay on or flicker.

3. What causes the P0650 code to appear in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a burned-out MIL bulb, a faulty MIL circuit, damaged wiring or connectors, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0650 code?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. If the check engine light isn’t working properly, you may not be alerted to other critical engine or emission system issues.

5. How do I diagnose the P0650 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Inspect the MIL bulb, check for damaged wiring or connectors in the MIL circuit, and test the ECM for faults if no wiring issues are found.

6. How do I fix the P0650 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing a blown MIL bulb, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing the ECM if it’s determined to be faulty.

7. Can a blown fuse cause the P0650 code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a blown fuse in the instrument cluster or ECM circuit can disrupt the MIL and trigger the code.

8. How much does it cost to repair a P0650 code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing a bulb may cost $50-$100, while ECM replacement could exceed $1,000 including labor.

9. Can a P0650 code cause other problems in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The code itself doesn’t cause performance issues, but it prevents the check engine light from alerting you to other potential problems.

10. Is P0650 a common issue in the 2016 GMC Sierra?

It’s relatively uncommon, but it can occur due to wiring wear, faulty components, or manufacturing defects in the MIL circuit.

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