AutoCodes – GMC – P115E 2016 GMC Sierra

P115E 2016 GMC Sierra Code - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)

Quick Answer

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 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: P115E 2016 GMC Sierra indicates O2 Reference Voltage Circuit (NOx Sensor 1).
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 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 158

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 Mar 24, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P115E 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. There are two NOx sensors, one placed upstream of selective catalytic reduction, to measure inlet NOx concentration, and one placed downstream. They are connected with the control module via CAN and all the information is exchanged through it. Since it is a smart sensor, all the electrical monitoring is performed inside the sensor and only the results are sent to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Each NOx sensor contains a sensing cell, a pumping cell, and a heater. A sample of exhaust gas passes through a diffusion gap between the sensing cell and the pumping cell. The NOx sensor maintains a constant reference voltage across the sensing cell. An electronic circuit within the sensor controls the pump current through the pumping cell in order to maintain a constant voltage in the sensing cell. The amount of current required to maintain the reference voltage in the sensing cell is proportional to the concentration of NOx in the exhaust. The ECM varies the amount of diesel exhaust fluid (reductant) added by varying the reductant injector duty cycle in response to changes in engine exhaust NOx levels. The smart NOx sensors consist of two components, the NOx module and the NOx sensor element that are serviced as a unit. A circuit or performance condition with a NOx sensor is detected by the NOx sensor module. The smart NOx sensor module communicates the condition to the ECM over the serial data line. The ECM sets a DTC when a serial data message is received from the NOx sensor module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM software detects a fault in the NOx sensor circuitry or a performance fault in the NOx sensor for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P115E 2016 GMC Sierra - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com — P115E 2016 GMC Sierra Code - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P115E 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P115E 2016 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 P115E 2016 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 P115E 2016 GMC Sierra code?

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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 P115E 2016 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P115E mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P115E refers to an issue with the O2 Reference Voltage Circuit for NOx Sensor 1, indicating a problem with the sensor's ability to measure or report data accurately.

What are the symptoms of a P115E code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, rough idling, poor engine performance, and possible limp mode activation.

What causes the P115E code to appear on a GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty NOx sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the O2 reference voltage circuit, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P115E code?

Itâ€™s not recommended to drive for extended periods with this code, as it can lead to reduced performance and potentially damage the emission system.

How do I diagnose a P115E code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the NOx sensorâ€™s voltage output, and using a diagnostic scanner to check for related codes or issues.

What tools are needed to fix a P115E code on a GMC Sierra?

You may need a diagnostic scanner, multimeter, and basic tools such as pliers and screwdrivers to inspect and repair wiring or replace the NOx sensor.

How much does it cost to repair a P115E code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing a NOx sensor typically costs $300-$600, including parts and labor. Wiring repairs may cost less.

Can a software update resolve the P115E code on my GMC Sierra?

In some cases, an ECM software update from the dealership may resolve this issue if itâ€™s caused by a software-related glitch.

What happens if I ignore the P115E code?

Ignoring this code can lead to worsening engine performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter or other emission components.

Is the NOx sensor the same as an O2 sensor?

No, the NOx sensor specifically measures nitrogen oxide levels in the exhaust, while the O2 sensor monitors oxygen levels. Both are crucial for emission control.