AutoCodesChevrolet – P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado

P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - 5 Volt Reference 1 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) has four (4) internal 5 Volt reference circuits (Some models have two (2) internal 5 Volt reference circuits). Common causes include Faulty Sensor on 5 Volt circuit, Sensor on 5 Volt circuit harness is open or shorted, Sensor on 5 Volt 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
P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado indicates 5 Volt Reference 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Sensor on 5 Volt circuit, Sensor on 5 Volt circuit harness is open or shorted, Sensor on 5 Volt 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 250
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 17, 2022
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Code P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) has four (4) internal 5 Volt reference circuits (Some models have two (2) internal 5 Volt reference circuits). Each internal reference circuit provides external 5 Volt reference circuits for more than one sensor. A short to ground or short to voltage on one external 5 Volt reference circuit can affect all the components connected to the same internal 5 Volt reference circuit. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a lower than the expected voltage on any of the 5 Volt reference circuits for greater than 0.5 s.
OBDII Code P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado - 5 Volt Reference 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - 5 Volt Reference 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Faulty Sensor on 5 Volt circuit
  • Sensor on 5 Volt circuit harness is open or shorted
  • Sensor on 5 Volt circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0642 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does the OBD-II code P0642 mean for a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

P0642 indicates a low voltage condition in the 5-volt reference circuit 1, which supplies power to various sensors in the vehicle.

What are the common symptoms of code P0642 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, poor engine performance, erratic sensor readings, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

What causes the P0642 code to appear in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a short to ground in the 5-volt reference circuit, a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or a defective engine control module (ECM).

Which sensors are typically affected by the P0642 code in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

The code may impact sensors that rely on the 5-volt reference circuit, such as the throttle position sensor (TPS), manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor, or fuel rail pressure sensor.

Can I drive my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado with the P0642 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to poor engine performance and may cause further damage to the vehicle’s electrical or fuel systems.

How do I diagnose the P0642 code in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves checking for damaged wiring, inspecting sensors connected to the 5-volt reference circuit, and testing circuit voltage with a multimeter.

What repairs can fix the P0642 code on a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing damaged wiring, repairing a short to ground, replacing a faulty sensor, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM.

How much does it cost to fix the P0642 code in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs vary but may range from $100 to $1,000 depending on the specific issue, such as sensor replacement or ECM repair.

Can a bad battery cause the P0642 code in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

While unlikely, a weak or failing battery can cause voltage-related issues that may indirectly contribute to this code.

How can I prevent the P0642 code from recurring in my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

Regularly inspect and maintain the vehicle’s wiring, connectors, and sensors to prevent electrical issues that can trigger this code.

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