AutoCodes – GMC – P042E 2015 GMC Sierra

P042E 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Closed Position Performance

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) position sensor to determine the position of the EGR valve. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve 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: P042E 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Exhaust Gas Recirculation Closed Position Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve 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 176

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 19, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P042E 2015 GMC Sierra Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) position sensor to determine the position of the EGR valve. The ECM sends a reference voltage through the 5 V reference circuit to the EGR position sensor. The ECM provides a voltage return path for the sensor through the low reference circuit. A signal based on the EGR valve position is sent from the EGR sensor to the ECM. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the desired position and the actual position of the EGR valve is greater than a calibrated threshold.

OBDII Code P042E 2015 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Closed Position Performance - AutoCodes.com — P042E 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Closed Position Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P042E 2015 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P042E 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P042E 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.

Need more information about the P042E 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P042E 2015 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the 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 P042E 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P042E mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P042E indicates an issue with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, specifically that the EGR valve is not performing properly in its closed position.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P042E on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms include rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, increased emissions, and possible illumination of the Check Engine Light.

3. What causes the P042E code to appear on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Causes may include carbon buildup in the EGR valve, a faulty EGR valve, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning EGR position sensor.

4. Can I drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with a P042E code?

While it might be possible to drive with this code, itâ€™s not recommended as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel economy, and potential engine damage over time.

5. How can I fix the P042E code on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common fixes include cleaning the EGR valve, replacing the EGR valve if faulty, inspecting and repairing wiring or connectors, and replacing the EGR position sensor if needed.

6. How much does it cost to repair the P042E code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary, but cleaning the EGR valve may cost $100â€“$200, while replacing the EGR valve could cost $300â€“$600, depending on labor and parts.

7. How can I prevent the P042E code from occurring on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the EGR valve and preventing carbon buildup, can help avoid this issue. Using high-quality fuel also reduces carbon deposits.

8. Can a faulty EGR position sensor trigger the P042E code?

Yes, a malfunctioning EGR position sensor can misreport the valveâ€™s position, leading to the P042E code.

9. Does the P042E code affect emissions on the 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a malfunctioning EGR system can increase NOx emissions, potentially causing the vehicle to fail emissions testing.

10. What tools are needed to diagnose the P042E code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, a multimeter to check electrical connections, and possibly tools to remove and inspect the EGR valve.