AutoCodes – GMC – P0545 2015 GMC Sierra

P0545 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P0545 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 170

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 03, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0545 2015 GMC Sierra Description

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Exhaust temperature sensor 1 is the first exhaust temperature sensor in the exhaust system, the following exhaust temperature sensors are counted upward from the engine outlet to the exhaust system end. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5 V to the exhaust gas temperature signal circuit and supplies a ground to the low reference circuit. The exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature information is used by the ECM during the exhaust gas particulate filter cleaning process. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will ve set when the ECM detects that the exhaust gas temperature sensor is less than 158 Ω for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P0545 2015 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0545 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0545 2015 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0545 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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

After starting the engine, the exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature should rise steadily, then stabilize after the engine reaches operating temperature. Exhaust gas temperature sensors may fail intermittently while operating under extreme temperatures. Review the Freeze Frame/Failure Records to verify the failure criteria.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0545 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 P0545 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0545 2015 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0545 2015 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P0545 mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P0545 indicates a low voltage issue in the Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor 1 Circuit, typically affecting the sensor that monitors exhaust temperatures to optimize engine performance and emissions.

What are the common symptoms of code P0545?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, and, in some cases, the vehicle entering limp mode.

What causes the P0545 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty EGT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

Can I drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the P0545 code active?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it may lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the exhaust or engine components.

How do I diagnose the P0545 code on my GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for codes, inspecting the EGT sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion, testing the sensor's resistance, and verifying voltage readings with a multimeter.

Does the P0545 code always mean the EGT sensor is bad?

No, the issue could also stem from damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, or faults in the PCM, so a thorough diagnosis is necessary.

How can I fix the P0545 code on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the EGT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

How much does it cost to fix the P0545 code?

The cost varies, but replacing an EGT sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300, including parts and labor. Wiring repairs or PCM replacement may cost more.

Can a dirty EGT sensor trigger the P0545 code?

Not usually. The code is typically caused by electrical issues rather than dirt or soot buildup, but cleaning the sensor won't hurt if other problems are ruled out.

How do I prevent the P0545 code from reoccurring?

Regular maintenance, inspecting the exhaust system for damage, and ensuring all electrical connections are clean and secure can help prevent the code from returning.