AutoCodes – GMC – P116E 2018 GMC Sierra

P116E 2018 GMC Sierra Code - O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low 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: P116E 2018 GMC Sierra indicates O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low 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 157

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 P116E 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 P116E 2018 GMC Sierra - O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com — P116E 2018 GMC Sierra Code - O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P116E 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 P116E 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 P116E 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 P116E 2018 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 P116E 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P116E mean on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

P116E refers to "O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)," indicating an issue with the voltage in the circuit controlling the oxygen pump within the NOx sensor.

2. What are the common symptoms of P116E in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and possible engine performance issues like rough idling or hesitation.

3. What causes the P116E code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty NOx sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a malfunctioning ECM, or low voltage in the control circuit.

4. Can I drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with the P116E code active?

While the vehicle may still run, it is not recommended to drive for extended periods as the issue can lead to increased emissions and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

5. How is the P116E code diagnosed?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the NOx sensor and its wiring for damage, and measure voltage and resistance in the circuit to identify the fault.

6. How do you fix the P116E code on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

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

7. How much does it cost to repair the P116E code on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $300 to $600, depending on whether the NOx sensor or wiring needs replacement.

8. Can a dirty or clogged NOx sensor trigger the P116E code?

While the sensor itself cannot become "clogged," contamination or failure of internal components could lead to the code being triggered.

9. Can a weak battery cause the P116E code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery may result in low voltage in the circuit, which can contribute to triggering the P116E code.

10. Is there a way to prevent the P116E code from appearing?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting the NOx sensor and wiring, ensuring a healthy battery, and addressing emissions-related issues promptly, can help prevent this code.