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.
Code P0642 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description
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
The 5 Volt reference 1 circuit provides 5 Volt to the following sensors: (Some models may have different sensors, please consult the factory service manual for the list of sensors for your model and year)
- Air conditioning (A/C) refrigerant pressure sensor
- Camshaft position sensor
- Engine oil pressure sensor
- Fuel pressure sensor
- Fuel rail pressure sensor
- Fuel tank pressure sensor
- Multifunction intake air sensor
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
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.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.