AutoCodes – GMC – P0646 2015 GMC Sierra

P0646 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

When the Air Conditioning (A/C) switch is pressed, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control module sends an A/C request message to the Engine Control Module (ECM) via serial data. Common causes include Faulty Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Clutch Relay, Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay harness is open or shorted, Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means
P0646 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Clutch Relay, Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay harness is open or shorted, Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?
The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
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Code Popularity 202
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 P0646 2015 GMC Sierra Description

When the Air Conditioning (A/C) switch is pressed, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control module sends an A/C request message to the Engine Control Module (ECM) via serial data. The ECM then grounds the A/C compressor clutch relay coil control circuit, closing the relay contacts. The closed relay contacts provide voltage to the compressor clutch causing it to engage. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a short to ground or an open at the A/C compressor clutch relay control circuit.
OBDII Code P0646 2015 GMC Sierra - Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0646 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0646 2015 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Clutch Relay
  • Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay harness is open or shorted
  • Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Relay circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0646 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0646 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 P0646 2015 GMC Sierra 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 P0646 2015 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P0646 mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The P0646 code indicates a low voltage issue in the Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Clutch Relay Control Circuit, which may affect the A/C system's operation.

What are the common symptoms of the P0646 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the A/C not blowing cold air, the A/C compressor not engaging, or the Check Engine Light being illuminated.

What causes the P0646 code to appear in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty A/C compressor clutch relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

How can I diagnose the P0646 code on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Start by checking the A/C compressor clutch relay for proper operation, inspecting related wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the voltage at the relay control circuit.

Can I still drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the P0646 code?

Yes, you can drive the truck, but the A/C system may not function properly, and ignoring the issue could lead to further electrical problems.

How do I fix the P0646 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty A/C compressor clutch relay, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing issues with the PCM if necessary.

What tools do I need to troubleshoot the P0646 code?

You will need a digital multimeter, an OBDII scanner, and potentially a wiring diagram for the A/C system to trace the circuit.

Can a blown fuse cause the P0646 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a blown fuse in the A/C system can result in low voltage in the compressor clutch relay control circuit and trigger this code.

How much does it cost to fix the P0646 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The cost varies depending on the specific issue. Replacing a relay or fuse can cost under $50, while repairing wiring or addressing PCM issues may be more expensive.

Could a weak battery cause the P0646 code on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can contribute to low voltage issues in electrical circuits, potentially triggering the P0646 code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0646 2015 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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