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P1160 2018 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 2018 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 251
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 24, 2024
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Code P1160 2018 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 2018 GMC Sierra - O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com
P1160 2018 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 2018 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 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 P1160 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 P1160 2018 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1160 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 P1160 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1160 mean on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

P1160 indicates an issue with the O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage related to NOx Sensor 1, which monitors nitrogen oxide levels in the exhaust.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1160 on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

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

3. What causes the P1160 code to appear in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

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

4. Can I drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with the P1160 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, ignoring the issue can lead to decreased performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

5. How can I diagnose the P1160 code on my 2018 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then test the NOx sensor and its reference voltage circuit with a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the P1160 code on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty NOx sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or, in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the ECM.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P1160 code on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The cost varies depending on the exact issue but typically ranges from $200 to $600, with NOx sensor replacement being the most common expense.

8. Is the P1160 code related to emissions on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Yes, the P1160 code involves the NOx sensor, essential for monitoring and controlling emissions, which can impact your vehicle's compliance with emission standards.

9. Can a dirty air filter cause the P1160 code on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

No, a dirty air filter is unlikely to cause this specific code, as it primarily relates to the O2 reference voltage circuit and NOx sensor.

10. Does clearing the P1160 code solve the problem on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove the warning, but the underlying issue must be diagnosed and fixed to prevent the code from returning.

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