AutoCodes – GMC – P1479 GMC

P1479 GMC 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 GMC 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 574

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1479 GMC?

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 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1479 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 P1479 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1479 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1479 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

P1479 2014 GMC Sierra — Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance
P1479 2015 GMC Sierra — Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance
P1479 2016 GMC Sierra — Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance
P1479 2017 GMC Sierra — Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance
P1479 2018 GMC Sierra — Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance

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 GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1479 GMC?

Symptoms may include poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, black smoke from the exhaust, and an illuminated check engine light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1479 GMC?

Possible causes include a faulty particulate matter sensor, issues with the sensor wiring or connections, software glitches, or problems with the diesel particulate filter.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1479 GMC?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code, inspecting the sensor and its wiring for damage, checking the diesel particulate filter for clogs, and performing sensor sensitivity factor tests.

4. What does the Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance mean?

This code indicates that the sensitivity factor of the particulate matter sensor is not performing within the expected parameters, which can lead to inaccuracies in detecting particulate matter levels in the exhaust system.

5. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P1479 GMC?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced engine performance, and potential damage to the diesel particulate filter.

6. How can OBDII code P1479 GMC be repaired?

Repair options may include replacing the particulate matter sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, updating software, cleaning or replacing the diesel particulate filter, and resetting the sensor sensitivity factor.

7. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P1479 GMC?

Costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but repairs for this code can range from $200 to $800, including parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1479 GMC?

While some simple checks like inspecting wiring connections can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing the root cause of this code may require professional tools and expertise.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P1479 GMC?

The repair time can vary based on the specific issue, but most repairs for this code can be completed within a few hours to a day by a trained mechanic.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P1479 GMC from recurring?

Regular maintenance, such as ensuring proper diesel particulate filter function, using high-quality fuel, and addressing any sensor issues promptly, can help prevent the recurrence of this code.