AutoCodes – GMC – P1160 2017 GMC Sierra

P1160 2017 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 2017 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 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)

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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 2017 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 2017 GMC Sierra - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com — P1160 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P1160 mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

P1160 indicates an issue with the O2 reference voltage circuit being too high in the NOx Sensor 1, which monitors nitrogen oxide levels in the exhaust system.

What are the symptoms of a P1160 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

What causes the P1160 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

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

How do I fix the P1160 code on my GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the NOx sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or updating/reprogramming the PCM if necessary.

Can I drive with a P1160 code on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Itâ€™s not recommended, as driving with this code can lead to reduced performance, increased emissions, and further damage to the exhaust or engine systems.

How do I diagnose a P1160 code on my GMC Sierra?

Use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect the NOx sensor wiring and connectors for damage, and test the sensorâ€™s voltage and circuit continuity.

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

Repair costs vary but typically range from $200 to $600, depending on whether the NOx sensor or wiring requires replacement.

Can a bad NOx sensor cause other problems in my GMC Sierra?

Yes, a faulty NOx sensor can lead to increased emissions, poor fuel economy, and potential damage to the catalytic converter over time.

Is a P1160 code related to emissions testing?

Yes, a P1160 code may cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test because it indicates an issue with the NOx monitoring system.

What tools do I need to fix the P1160 code on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to test voltage and continuity, and basic tools for accessing and replacing the NOx sensor or repairing wiring.