P122C 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Intake Air Flow Valve Control Circuit Shorted
Quick Answer
The intake airflow valve of diesel engines reduces the intake air flow rate in part-load operation so that a higher exhaust gas recirculation rate can be achieved. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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
- P122C 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Intake Air Flow Valve Control Circuit Shorted.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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.
Code P122C 2016 GMC Sierra Description
The Intake airflow valve assembly contains a contactless inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. The valve position sensor is mounted within the valve body assembly and is not serviceable. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies the valve body with a 5 V reference circuit, a low reference circuit, an H-bridge motor directional control circuit, and an asynchronous signal/serial data circuit. The asynchronous signal means communication is only going from the intake airflow valve to the ECM. The Intake Air Flow Valve cannot receive data from the ECM over the signal/serial data circuit. The valve position sensor provides a signal voltage that changes relative to the valve blade angle. The valve position sensor information is transmitted between the Intake Air Flow Valve and the ECM on the signal/serial data circuit.
The valve may also be used to shut down the engine by closing the intake airflow valve and disabling the fuel injectors if the control module detects the engine speed is beyond the desired control limits. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM detects a high current short circuit on the intake airflow valve control circuit for greater than 0.5 s.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P122C 2016 GMC Sierra?
- Faulty Throttle Body Assembly
- Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted
- Throttle Body Assembly circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P122C 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 P122C 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about P122C 2016 GMC Sierra Code
What does OBDII code P122C mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?
P122C indicates a problem with the Intake Air Flow Valve Control Circuit, specifically a short in the wiring or components.
What are the common symptoms of P122C on a 2016 GMC Sierra?
Symptoms may include reduced engine performance, poor throttle response, a check engine light, and potentially the engine entering limp mode.
What causes code P122C on a GMC Sierra?
Potential causes include damaged or shorted wiring in the intake air flow valve circuit, a faulty intake air flow valve, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).
Can driving with a P122C code damage my engine?
Driving with this code may not cause immediate damage, but it can lead to reduced engine performance and increased wear if the issue is not addressed promptly.
How can I diagnose a P122C code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?
Start by checking for damaged wiring or loose connections in the intake air flow valve circuit. Use a multimeter to test for continuity and ensure proper voltage.
How do I fix the P122C code on a GMC Sierra?
Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, repairing connectors, or replacing the intake air flow valve if it is defective.
Can a dirty intake system trigger a P122C code?
While a dirty intake system may not directly cause the code, it can lead to airflow issues that might exacerbate problems with the intake air flow valve.
Is a faulty ECM a common cause of P122C?
A faulty ECM is less common but still a possible cause. It should only be considered after ruling out wiring and component issues.
How much does it cost to fix a P122C code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $500, depending on whether the issue is with wiring, the intake air flow valve, or other components.
Can I clear the P122C code without fixing the issue?
You can clear the code temporarily with a scan tool, but it will likely return unless the underlying issue is resolved.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P122C 2016 GMC Sierra OBDII Code
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