AutoCodes – GMC – P050D 2018 GMC Sierra

P050D 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Cold Start Rough Idle

Quick Answer

During a cold start, the Engine Control Module (ECM) commands dual-pulse mode during Open Loop operation to improve cold start emissions. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Injector, Fuel Injector harness is open or shorted, Fuel Injector 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: P050D 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Cold Start Rough Idle.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Fuel Injector, Fuel Injector harness is open or shorted, Fuel Injector 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 200

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 Jul 23, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P050D 2018 GMC Sierra Description

During a cold start, the Engine Control Module (ECM) commands dual-pulse mode during Open Loop operation to improve cold start emissions. In dual-pulse mode, the fuel injectors are energized twice during each injection event. As with misfire diagnosis, in dual-pulse mode the ECM monitors the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor to calculate crankshaft rotation speed. In normal operation, optimum fuel delivery during dual-pulse mode produces a steady crankshaft rotation speed. If the variations exceed a calibrated value, the code will be set.

OBDII Code P050D 2018 GMC Sierra - Cold Start Rough Idle - AutoCodes.com — P050D 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Cold Start Rough Idle

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P050D 2018 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Fuel Injector
Fuel Injector harness is open or shorted
Fuel Injector circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P050D 2018 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

There is a factory service bulletin for the following Chevrolet models:
2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Condition: A vehicle may have a concern about a DTC P050D setting along with a P0300 after a cold startup. White smoke and/or coolant odor may come from the exhaust for an extended period of time at a cold start as well. It may also Run rough when warm, with a slight knock, no codes set.
Cause: Coolant getting into the cylinders. If there is coolant in the cylinder, the cylinder head will need to be replaced.

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P050D 2018 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 P050D 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P050D mean on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

P050D indicates "Cold Start Rough Idle," meaning the engine experiences an unstable idle when started in cold conditions.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P050D in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms include rough idling during cold starts, poor acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, and sometimes an illuminated check engine light.

3. What causes code P050D in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include faulty fuel injectors, carbon buildup on intake valves, vacuum leaks, ignition system issues, or incorrect air-fuel mixture.

4. Can a dirty fuel injector trigger code P050D?

Yes, a dirty or malfunctioning fuel injector can cause uneven fuel delivery, leading to rough idle during cold starts and triggering P050D.

5. How do you diagnose code P050D on a GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis involves reading the code with an OBDII scanner, inspecting fuel injectors and spark plugs, checking for vacuum leaks, and analyzing live data for abnormalities in fuel trim or air-fuel ratio.

6. Can a bad spark plug cause the P050D code?

Yes, worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, which may result in rough idling and trigger the P050D code.

7. How do you fix code P050D on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include cleaning or replacing fuel injectors, replacing spark plugs or ignition coils, addressing vacuum leaks, or performing a throttle body cleaning.

8. Is it safe to drive with the P050D code?

Driving with this code is generally possible but not recommended, as prolonged rough idling and misfires can damage the engine or catalytic converter.

9. Can low-quality fuel cause the P050D code?

Yes, using low-quality or contaminated fuel can contribute to rough idling and trigger the code due to improper combustion.

10. Will clearing the P050D code fix the issue?

Clearing the code will temporarily turn off the check engine light, but it won't resolve the underlying problem causing the rough idle. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary.