AutoCodes – GMC – P1160 2015 GMC Sierra

P1160 2015 GMC Sierra Code - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (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: P1160 2015 GMC Sierra indicates O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (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 163

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 P1160 2015 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 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 P1160 2015 GMC Sierra - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com — P1160 2015 GMC Sierra Code - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1160 2015 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 P1160 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 P1160 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 P1160 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 P1160 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1160 mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P1160 indicates an issue with the O2 reference voltage circuit, specifically high voltage detected in the NOx Sensor 1.

2. What are the symptoms of code P1160 on a GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, and possible NOx sensor-related error messages.

3. What causes the P1160 code to appear on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

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

4. Can I drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the P1160 code active?

While the vehicle may still drive, itâ€™s not recommended as the issue can lead to reduced performance and potential damage to the emissions system.

5. How do I diagnose the P1160 code on my GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then test the NOx sensor and O2 reference voltage circuit using a multimeter or diagnostic tool.

6. How can I fix the P1160 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty NOx sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or updating/reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P1160 code on a GMC Sierra?

The cost can vary, but replacing a NOx sensor typically ranges from $300 to $600, while wiring repairs or ECM reprogramming may add additional costs.

8. How do I prevent the P1160 code from recurring on my GMC Sierra?

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting wiring and ensuring sensors are clean and functioning, can help prevent this issue.

9. Can a dirty air filter cause the P1160 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

While unlikely, a restricted air filter can contribute to emissions-related issues, so itâ€™s important to ensure the air filter is clean and functional.

10. Does the P1160 code affect emissions testing for a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, the P1160 code can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test due to improper functioning of the NOx sensor and emissions control system.