AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and signal circuit. Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature 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: P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature 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 555

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 16, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and signal circuit. The ECM monitors the voltage drop across the sensor, which is inversely proportional to temperature. When the ambient air temperature is cold, the resistance of the sensor is high. When the ambient air temperature is warm, the resistance of the sensors is low. The engine control module converts the voltage value to a temperature value and sends the value to the Display Module via serial data. The Display Module displays the temperature. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor signal is less than -40°C (-40°F).

OBDII Code P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0073 2016 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 P0073 2016 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 P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0073 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does OBDII code P0073 mean for a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

OBDII code P0073 indicates that the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit is registering a high voltage, which suggests a potential issue with the sensor itself or its electrical connections.

What are the common symptoms of code P0073?

Common symptoms include an inaccurate temperature reading on the dashboard, possible issues with climate control systems, and the check engine light being illuminated.

What could cause the P0073 code to trigger?

Possible causes include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, short circuits, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

How can I diagnose the P0073 code?

To diagnose P0073, start by checking the ambient air temperature sensor for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance of the sensor and inspect wiring and connectors for faults.

What is the typical repair for a P0073 code?

The typical repair involves replacing the faulty ambient air temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the code to see if it returns.

Can I drive my Silverado with the P0073 code?

While it may be safe to drive, the inaccurate ambient air temperature readings could affect fuel efficiency and climate control. Itâ€™s advisable to address the issue as soon as possible.

How much does it typically cost to fix a P0073 code?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue, but replacing the ambient air temperature sensor usually ranges from $100 to $300, including parts and labor.

Will clearing the code fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue isn't resolved, the code will likely return.

Can a faulty ambient air temperature sensor affect fuel efficiency?

Yes, a faulty ambient air temperature sensor can lead to incorrect air-fuel mixture readings, which may result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions.