AutoCodes – GMC – P0546 2017 GMC Sierra

P0546 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High 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: P0546 2017 GMC Sierra indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High 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 410

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 P0546 2017 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 greater than 900 Ω for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P0546 2017 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0546 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0546 2017 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 P0546 2017 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 P0546 2017 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 P0546 2017 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0546 2017 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 P0546 2017 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0546 mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

P0546 indicates a high voltage issue in the Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor 1 Circuit, which monitors exhaust gas temperatures to optimize emissions control.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0546 on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, and potential limp mode activation.

3. What causes the P0546 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty EGT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the EGT sensor circuit, exhaust leaks, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my 2017 GMC Sierra with the P0546 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it is not recommended to ignore the issue as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced performance, and potential damage to the exhaust system.

5. How do I diagnose the P0546 code on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the EGT sensor and its wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance and check for voltage irregularities in the circuit.

6. How do I fix the P0546 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty EGT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, fixing exhaust leaks, or reprogramming/updating the PCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P0546 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

The cost can range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, depending on whether the EGT sensor or wiring needs to be replaced.

8. Can a bad exhaust gas temperature sensor damage my engine?

While a bad EGT sensor may not directly damage the engine, it can lead to improper emissions control and overheating of exhaust components, potentially causing long-term issues.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P0546 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for electrical testing, and basic hand tools to inspect and replace the sensor or wiring.

10. How can I prevent the P0546 code from occurring again?

Regular maintenance, including checking the exhaust system for leaks and inspecting wiring and sensors for wear, can help prevent this code from reoccurring.