AutoCodes – GMC – P0305 2016 GMC Sierra

P0305 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected

Quick Answer

A misfiring cylinder causes slight variations in the rotational speed of the crankshaft. Common causes include Faulty spark plug 5, Clogged or faulty fuel injector 5, Faulty ignition coil 5. 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: P0305 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty spark plug 5, Clogged or faulty fuel injector 5, Faulty ignition coil 5.
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 501

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 Aug 09, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0305 2016 GMC Sierra Description

A misfiring cylinder causes slight variations in the rotational speed of the crankshaft. The Engine Control Module (ECM) can detect these variations by closely monitoring the crankshaft position sensor signal. The signals of the camshaft position sensors are used to determine which cylinder is misfiring. If the ECM detects a misfire rate sufficient to cause emission levels to exceed mandated standards, the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set. Under certain driving conditions, a misfire rate can be high enough to cause the catalytic converter to overheat, damaging the converter. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) flashes when the converter is overheating, damaging conditions are present, and the DTC is set. The DTC will be set when the ECM detects a crankshaft rotation speed variation indicating a single-cylinder misfire rate sufficient to cause emissions levels to exceed mandated standards.

OBDII Code P0305 2016 GMC Sierra - Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected - AutoCodes.com — P0305 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0305 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty spark plug 5
Clogged or faulty fuel injector 5
Faulty ignition coil 5
Fuel injector 5 harness is open or shorted
Fuel injector 5 circuit poor electrical connection
Ignition coil 5 harness is open or shorted
Ignition coil 5 circuit poor electrical connection
Insufficient cylinder 5 compression
Incorrect fuel pressure
Intake air leak

How to Fix the DTC P0305 2016 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 P0305 code means that cylinder 5 is misfiring or is randomly misfiring. Start by checking for intake leaks and if no leaks are found the next step is to replace the spark plugs on cylinder 5. If the problem persists more tests need to be done to diagnose the problem, see "Possible Causes".

There is a Factory Service Bulletins for All 2000-2020 Chevrolet Models:
2000-2020 Chevrolet Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0305
This Factory Service Bulletin explains how this condition may be caused by significant carbon build-up on the intake and/or exhaust valves due to fuel contamination or incomplete burning of the fuel.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0305 2016 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 P0305 2016 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 P0305 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0305 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0305 indicates a misfire has been detected in cylinder 5 of the engine.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0305 code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms include rough idling, reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, and possibly a flashing check engine light.

3. What causes a cylinder 5 misfire in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty spark plug, ignition coil, fuel injector, vacuum leak, or low cylinder compression.

4. Can a dirty fuel injector cause the P0305 code?

Yes, a clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector can disrupt the fuel delivery to cylinder 5, causing a misfire.

5. How can I diagnose the P0305 code in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel injector for cylinder 5. Check for vacuum leaks, perform a compression test, and use a scan tool to monitor live data.

6. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0305 code?

Driving with a P0305 code is not recommended, as it can cause engine damage or catalytic converter failure if the misfire is severe.

7. How do I fix the P0305 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the spark plug, ignition coil, or fuel injector for cylinder 5, fixing vacuum leaks, or addressing compression issues.

8. Will clearing the P0305 code solve the issue?

Clearing the code will only reset the check engine light temporarily. The underlying issue causing the misfire must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P0305 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Costs vary depending on the root cause, ranging from $50 for a spark plug replacement to several hundred dollars for more complex repairs like addressing compression issues.

10. Can a bad catalytic converter trigger the P0305 code?

No, a bad catalytic converter does not cause a P0305 code, but prolonged misfires can damage the catalytic converter over time.