AutoCodesGMC – P0046 2017 GMC Sierra

P0046 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Turbocharger Boost Control Position Performance

Quick Answer

A smart turbocharger vane position actuator incorporates a brushless motor and is mounted on top of the turbocharger. Common causes include Faulty Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator, Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator harness is open or shorted, Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator 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
P0046 2017 GMC Sierra indicates Turbocharger Boost Control Position Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator, Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator harness is open or shorted, Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 352
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 13, 2022
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Code P0046 2017 GMC Sierra Description

A smart turbocharger vane position actuator incorporates a brushless motor and is mounted on top of the turbocharger. It is connected to the vanes by a linkage rod. The vanes are used to vary the amount of boost pressure and can control the boost pressure independent of engine speed. The vanes mount to a unison ring which is rotated to change the vane angle. The Engine Control Module (ECM) communicates with the actuator via the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. The ECM will vary the vane angle which adjusts the boost dependent on the load requirements of the engine. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the difference between the commanded turbocharger vane position and the actual turbocharger vane position is greater than 15%, for greater than 10 s.
OBDII Code P0046 2017 GMC Sierra - Turbocharger Boost Control Position Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0046 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Turbocharger Boost Control Position Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0046 2017 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator
  • Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator harness is open or shorted
  • Turbocharger Vane Position Actuator circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Turbocharger Assembly

How to Fix the DTC P0046 2017 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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0046 2017 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 P0046 2017 GMC Sierra 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 P0046 2017 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0046 mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

The P0046 code indicates an issue with the turbocharger boost control position, specifically a performance problem with the actuator or control circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0046 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include reduced engine power, poor acceleration, excessive exhaust smoke, and the Check Engine Light illuminating.

3. What causes the P0046 code to appear on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a malfunctioning turbocharger boost control actuator, faulty wiring or connectors, a clogged or damaged turbocharger, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2017 GMC Sierra with a P0046 code?

Driving with a P0046 code is not recommended, as it can lead to reduced performance and further damage to the turbocharger system or engine.

5. How do I diagnose the P0046 code on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the turbocharger boost control actuator, wiring, and connectors for damage. Use a scan tool to monitor boost pressure and actuator performance. Perform a visual inspection of the turbocharger for signs of mechanical failure.

6. How do I fix the P0046 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the turbocharger boost control actuator, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning or replacing the turbocharger, or reprogramming the ECM.

7. What tools are needed to diagnose a P0046 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

You’ll need an OBDII scan tool capable of reading live data, a multimeter for electrical testing, and possibly a turbocharger testing kit.

8. What is the cost of repairing the P0046 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing a turbo actuator can cost $300-$700, while a full turbocharger replacement may exceed $1,500.

9. Can a clogged air filter cause a P0046 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

While unlikely, a severely clogged air filter can restrict airflow and affect turbo performance, potentially contributing to this code.

10. Does the P0046 code always mean the turbocharger is bad on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

No, the issue could be with the turbo actuator, wiring, or ECM. A proper diagnosis is needed to pinpoint the root cause.

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