AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent

Quick Answer

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) provides vehicle speed information to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed 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: P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed 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 312

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 08, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) provides vehicle speed information to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The VSS is a permanent magnet generator. The sensor is mounted in the transfer case facing the rear internal gear which is splined to the output shaft assembly. As the output shaft and internal gear rotate, the toothed rotor of the internal gear produces AC voltage as the rotor teeth pass through the magnetic field of the sensor. The AC voltage level and the number of pulses increase as the speed of the vehicle increases. The ECM converts the voltage to vehicle speed. The ECM uses the output shaft speed signal to determine shift timing, as well as transfer case range. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when there is a loss of speed signal from the transfer case speed sensor.

OBDII Code P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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 P2161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, cruise control malfunctions, and the activation of the Check Engine Light.

2. What could cause the OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The code P2161 typically indicates an intermittent issue with the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 circuit, often caused by a faulty speed sensor, damaged wiring, or a poor connection.

3. How serious is the OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- While the vehicle may still be operable with this code, it is important to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent potential safety hazards and further damage to the vehicle.

4. Can I continue driving my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with the OBDII code P2161?

- It is generally not recommended to drive the vehicle with an unresolved P2161 code, as it can lead to inaccurate speed readings and affect the performance of certain vehicle systems.

5. How can I diagnose and repair the OBDII code P2161 in my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Diagnosing and repairing this code often involves inspecting the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2, checking the wiring for damage or loose connections, and potentially replacing the sensor if necessary.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, it will likely return if the root cause of the P2161 code is not addressed.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to diagnose and address the P2161 code by replacing the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 or repairing damaged wiring.

8. How much does it cost to repair the OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The cost of repairing the P2161 code can vary based on the specific issue causing it, but it may involve expenses for parts, labor, and diagnostic services from a mechanic.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of the OBDII code P2161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Regularly inspecting the vehicle's speed sensors, maintaining proper wiring connections, and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent the reoccurrence of the P2161 code.

10. Does the OBDII code P2161 affect the overall performance and fuel efficiency of a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

- While the code itself may not directly impact performance or fuel efficiency, addressing it promptly can ensure the vehicle operates optimally and maintains fuel efficiency levels.