AutoCodes – GMC – P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra

P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra Code - NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit

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
P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra indicates NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 183
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 24, 2024
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Code P11C5 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 P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra - NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra Code - NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P11C5 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 P11C5 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 P11C5 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 P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P11C5 2016 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 P11C5 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P11C5 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The P11C5 code indicates an issue with the NOx Sensor 1 Heater Ground Circuit, which means the ground connection for the sensor's heater is faulty or not functioning properly.

2. What are the symptoms of code P11C5 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include a Check Engine Light, reduced fuel efficiency, possible limp mode, and increased emissions.

3. What causes the P11C5 code to appear?

Possible causes include a damaged NOx sensor, broken or corroded ground wiring, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P11C5 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced performance, and potential damage to the exhaust system over time.

5. How do I diagnose the P11C5 code on my GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the NOx sensor wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, check the fuses, and use a multimeter to test the heater ground circuit continuity.

6. How do I fix the P11C5 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

7. How much does it cost to fix a P11C5 code on a GMC Sierra?

The cost can range from $200 to $700 depending on whether the NOx sensor needs replacement or if the issue lies in the wiring or PCM.

8. What is the function of the NOx Sensor 1 Heater?

The heater warms up the NOx sensor to ensure accurate measurement of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, especially during cold starts.

9. Can a faulty NOx sensor cause other problems in the vehicle?

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

10. Is the P11C5 code related to emissions testing?

Yes, a P11C5 code can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test due to inaccurate NOx readings and higher-than-allowed emission levels.

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