AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit High Frequency

Quick Answer

The Fuel Composition Sensor (FCS), or Flex Fuel Sensor (service parts term), measures the ethanol-gasoline ratio of the fuel being used in a flexible fuel vehicle. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Composition Sensor (FCS) or Flex Fuel Sensor, Fuel Composition Sensor harness is open or shorted, Fuel Composition 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
P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit High Frequency.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Fuel Composition Sensor (FCS) or Flex Fuel Sensor, Fuel Composition Sensor harness is open or shorted, Fuel Composition 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 1,126
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 29, 2022
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Code P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Fuel Composition Sensor (FCS), or Flex Fuel Sensor (service parts term), measures the ethanol-gasoline ratio of the fuel being used in a flexible fuel vehicle. Flexible fuel vehicles can be operated with a blend of up to 85 percent ethanol. To adjust the ignition timing and the air to fuel ratio, the engine management system requires information about the percentage of ethanol in the fuel.
Alcohol content information is supplied to the Engine Control Module (ECM) from the Fuel Composition Sensor. The Fuel Composition Sensor has an ignition positive circuit, a signal circuit, and a ground circuit. The Fuel Composition Sensor uses a microprocessor inside the sensor to measure the ethanol percentage and changes the output signal accordingly. The signal circuit carries the ethanol percentage via the frequency signal. The ECM provides an internal pull up to 5V on the signal circuit, and the fuel composition sensor pulls the 5V to ground in pulses. The normal range of operating frequency is between 50 - 150 Hz. The microprocessor inside the sensor is capable of a certain amount of self-diagnosis. An output frequency between 180 Hz and 190 Hz indicates that the fuel is contaminated. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the fuel composition sensor output frequency is less than 45 Hz for greater than 6s.
OBDII Code P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit High Frequency - AutoCodes.com
P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Fuel Composition Sensor Circuit High Frequency

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Faulty Fuel Composition Sensor (FCS) or Flex Fuel Sensor
  • Fuel Composition Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Fuel Composition Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0179 2014 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0179 2014 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 P0179 2014 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 P0179 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does the OBDII code P0179 mean for a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

The P0179 code indicates a high frequency signal in the fuel composition sensor circuit, which monitors ethanol content in the fuel.

What are common symptoms of code P0179 in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include poor fuel economy, rough idle, difficulty starting, and possibly an illuminated Check Engine Light.

What causes the P0179 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

The code can be caused by a faulty fuel composition sensor, wiring issues, or electrical interference affecting the sensor's signal.

How can I diagnose the P0179 code on my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the sensor, checking wiring and connections for damage, and using a scan tool to monitor fuel composition sensor readings.

Can a bad fuel composition sensor trigger the P0179 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning fuel composition sensor is one of the most common causes of this code.

Can I still drive my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with a P0179 code?

While the vehicle may be drivable, ignoring the code can lead to poor performance and potential damage to the engine or fuel system.

How do I fix the P0179 code on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the fuel composition sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or addressing electrical interference in the circuit.

Is the P0179 code related to ethanol fuel usage?

Yes, the fuel composition sensor monitors ethanol content, so issues with the sensor can affect how the vehicle adjusts for different ethanol levels.

How much does it cost to fix the P0179 code on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs vary, but replacing a fuel composition sensor typically ranges from $200 to $400, including parts and labor.

Can a P0179 code affect emissions testing?

Yes, a P0179 code can cause the vehicle to fail emissions testing due to improper fuel mixture adjustments.

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