AutoCodesChevrolet – P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P0642 2016 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 2016 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 307
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 17, 2022
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0642 2016 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - 5 Volt Reference 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - 5 Volt Reference 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0642 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0642 mean for a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

P0642 indicates a low voltage issue in the 5-volt reference 1 circuit, which is responsible for providing a stable voltage to certain sensors in the vehicle.

2. What are the common symptoms of P0642 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the check engine light, poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, erratic sensor readings, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

3. What causes the P0642 code to appear in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a short circuit in the wiring, a failed sensor on the 5-volt reference circuit, a faulty engine control module (ECM), or corrosion in electrical connectors.

4. How can I fix the P0642 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include inspecting and repairing damaged wiring, replacing a faulty sensor, cleaning corroded connectors, or in rare cases, replacing the ECM.

5. Which sensors are typically linked to the 5-volt reference circuit in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Sensors that may rely on the 5-volt reference include the throttle position sensor, manifold absolute pressure sensor, and crankshaft position sensor.

6. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with a P0642 code?

While the vehicle may still run, driving with a P0642 code can cause poor performance or further damage to the vehicle. It’s best to address the issue promptly.

7. How do I diagnose a P0642 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to check sensor data, visually inspecting wiring and connectors, and performing voltage tests on the 5-volt reference circuit.

8. Is a faulty ECM a common cause of P0642 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

A faulty ECM is a less common cause of P0642 but should be considered if all wiring and sensor issues have been ruled out.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair a P0642 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause but can range from $50 for minor wiring repairs to over $1,000 if the ECM or multiple sensors need replacement.

10. Can a P0642 code cause other issues in my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, a P0642 code can cause related systems and sensors to malfunction, leading to broader engine performance issues if not addressed.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado OBDII Code

Code P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play