AutoCodes – Cadillac – P1479 Cadillac

P1479 Cadillac Code - Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance

Quick Answer

The Particulate Matter (PM) sensor monitors the amount of the particulates (soot) in the diesel exhaust gas exiting the tailpipe. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor, Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Particulate Matter 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: P1479 Cadillac indicates Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor, Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Particulate Matter 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 420

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 30, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1479 Cadillac Description

The Particulate Matter (PM) sensor monitors the amount of the particulates (soot) in the diesel exhaust gas exiting the tailpipe. The PM sensor is similar to the heated oxygen sensor with a ceramic element but also includes an individually calibrated Sensor Control Unit (SCU). The sensing element includes comb-shaped Interdigital Electrodes (IDE), a heater and a positive temperature coefficient resistor for temperature measurement.
The operation of the PM Sensor is based on the electrical conductivity characteristic of the diesel particulate. As the exhaust gas flows over the sensing element, soot is absorbed in the combs between the electrodes, eventually creating a conductive path. When the path is formed, it generates a current based on the voltage being applied to the element. The measurement process continues until a preset current value is reached. To avoid misleading readings, the sensor performs a regeneration where the soot is cleaned off by heating up the element before the measurement phase begins. The amount of regenerations is based on vehicle strategy; when the calibrated number of regenerations is reached, the cumulative current readings are used to determine the amount of soot concentration in the exhaust gas which in turn determines the collection efficiency of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the particular matter sensor control unit detects a fault in the particulate matter sensor circuitry.

OBDII Code P1479 Cadillac - Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance - AutoCodes.com — P1479 Cadillac Code - Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1479 Cadillac?

Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor
Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1479 Cadillac?

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 P1479 Cadillac 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.

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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 P1479 Cadillac Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1479 in a Cadillac related to the Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and possible illumination of the check engine light.

2. What are some potential causes of OBDII code P1479 in a Cadillac?

- Potential causes may include a faulty particulate matter sensor, wiring issues, sensor calibration problems, or issues with the diesel particulate filter system.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1479 in my Cadillac?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the trouble code and performing a thorough inspection of the particulate matter sensor, related wiring, and the diesel particulate filter system.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Cadillac with OBDII code P1479 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code present, as it can lead to further engine and emissions system issues. It is best to address the problem promptly.

5. Can I repair OBDII code P1479 in my Cadillac myself?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to address the issue yourself by inspecting and potentially replacing the particulate matter sensor or addressing wiring problems. However, it is recommended to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and repair.

6. What steps can I take to prevent OBDII code P1479 from occurring in my Cadillac?

- Regular maintenance, including keeping the diesel particulate filter system clean and in good condition, can help prevent issues related to the Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1479 in a Cadillac?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, the labor rates in your area, and the cost of parts. It is recommended to obtain quotes from reputable repair shops for a more accurate estimate.

8. Will resetting the check engine light make OBDII code P1479 go away?

- Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but it will likely return if the underlying issue is not addressed. It is important to diagnose and repair the problem to prevent further issues.

9. Can a dirty air filter cause OBDII code P1479 to trigger in a Cadillac?

- While a dirty air filter may affect engine performance, it is not a common cause of OBDII code P1479 related to the Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance.

10. How long can I safely drive my Cadillac with OBDII code P1479 before getting it repaired?

- It is recommended to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent potential damage to the engine or emissions system. Avoid driving long distances or under heavy load until the problem is resolved.