AutoCodes – GMC – P0051 2015 GMC Sierra

P0051 2015 GMC Sierra Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage Bank 2 Sensor 1

Quick Answer

Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and post catalyst monitoring. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P0051 2015 GMC Sierra indicates HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage Bank 2 Sensor 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 237

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 25, 2024

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0051 2015 GMC Sierra Description

Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and post catalyst monitoring. Each HO2S compares the oxygen content of the surrounding air with the oxygen content in the exhaust stream. The HO2S must reach an operating temperature to provide an accurate voltage signal. A heating element inside the HO2S minimizes the time required for the sensors to reach operating temperature. Voltage is provided to the heater by an ignition voltage circuit through a fuse. With the engine running, the ground is provided to the heater by the HO2S heater low control circuit through a low side driver within the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the HO2S heater operation to maintain a specific HO2S operating temperature range.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a short to ground in the heater output low side driver circuit of the heated oxygen sensor when the heater is commanded OFF for greater than 5 s.

OBDII Code P0051 2015 GMC Sierra - HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage Bank 2 Sensor 1 - AutoCodes.com — P0051 2015 GMC Sierra Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage Bank 2 Sensor 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0051 2015 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1
Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted
Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 fuse
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0051 2015 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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

The code means that there is a problem with the heater element circuit of the heated oxygen sensor. The control module monitors how long it takes the sensor to warm up and start sending an adequate signal. The code is set when the sensor is taking too long to warm up. Water getting inside the heated oxygen sensor connector can cause the heated oxygen sensor fuse to blow. Before replacing the sensor, check for the condition of the heated oxygen sensor fuse and connectors. If the fuse and connector are OK, replacing the O2 Sensor usually takes care of the problem.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0051 2015 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.

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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 P0051 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0051 for a 2015 GMC Sierra mean?

The code P0051 indicates a problem with the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Heater Control Circuit Low Voltage for Bank 2 Sensor 1 in a 2015 GMC Sierra.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0051 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, engine misfires, and an illuminated check engine light.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0051 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code P0051 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

You can diagnose the problem by checking the oxygen sensor's wiring and connectors, testing the sensor's resistance, inspecting the fuse, and performing a scan tool test.

5. Can I continue driving my 2015 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P0051?

It is not recommended to drive with the P0051 code present, as it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and potential damage to other engine components.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0051 in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repair options include replacing the oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing fuses if necessary, and resetting the ECM.

7. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P0051 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but it is essential to address the underlying issue causing the P0051 code to prevent it from reoccurring.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0051 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Depending on your mechanical skills and tools available, you may be able to address simple causes like checking and reconnecting wiring. However, more complex issues may require professional diagnosis and repair.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0051 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairs can vary based on the underlying issue causing the P0051 code. Replacing an oxygen sensor can range from $100 to $300, while addressing wiring or ECM issues may be more expensive.

10. How often does OBDII code P0051 occur in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The occurrence of the P0051 code can vary depending on the vehicle's condition and maintenance history. Regular vehicle inspections and timely repairs can help prevent the code from appearing frequently.