AutoCodes – GMC – P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra

P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra Code - 5V Reference 1 Performance

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: P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra indicates 5V Reference 1 Performance.
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.

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Code Popularity 171

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 23, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra 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 short to voltage or ground on any of the 5 Volt reference circuits for greater than 0.5 s.

OBDII Code P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra - 5V Reference 1 Performance - AutoCodes.com — P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra Code - 5V Reference 1 Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra?

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 P06A6 2018 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 P06A6 2018 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 P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra 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 P06A6 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P06A6 mean on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The P06A6 code indicates a "5V Reference 1 Performance" issue, meaning the 5-volt reference circuit that powers certain sensors is not operating correctly.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P06A6 code in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include the check engine light illuminating, poor engine performance, erratic sensor readings, and potential issues with systems relying on the 5V reference circuit.

3. What causes the P06A6 code to appear on a GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM), damaged wiring or connectors, a short circuit in the 5V reference circuit, or a malfunctioning sensor drawing excessive current.

4. Can I drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with a P06A6 code?

Itâ€™s not recommended. A faulty 5V reference circuit can cause serious performance issues, and driving with this code may lead to further damage.

5. How do I diagnose the P06A6 code in my GMC Sierra?

Start by checking the 5V reference circuit for proper voltage using a multimeter. Inspect wiring and connections for damage, and test sensors connected to the circuit for faults.

6. What sensors rely on the 5V reference circuit in the 2018 GMC Sierra?

Sensors such as the mass airflow sensor (MAF), throttle position sensor (TPS), and manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP) may depend on the 5V reference circuit.

7. How can I fix the P06A6 code on my GMC Sierra?

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

8. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P06A6 code?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner, a digital multimeter, and potentially a wiring diagram for your 2018 GMC Sierra to check the 5V reference circuit.

9. Could a bad ground cause the P06A6 code?

Yes, a poor ground connection can disrupt the 5V reference circuit, causing the ECM to detect performance issues and trigger the code.

10. How much does it cost to repair the P06A6 code on a GMC Sierra?

Costs vary depending on the root cause. Wiring repairs may cost $100-$200, while sensor replacements can range from $150-$400. An ECM replacement could exceed $1,000.