P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance
Quick Answer
The Particulate Matter (PM) sensor monitors the amount of the particulates (soot) in the diesel exhaust gas exiting the tailpipe. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor, Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Particulate Matter 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
- P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor, Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Particulate Matter 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.
Code P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description
The operation of the PM Sensor is based on the electrical conductivity characteristic of the diesel particulate. As the exhaust gas flows over the sensing element, soot is absorbed in the combs between the electrodes, eventually creating a conductive path. When the path is formed, it generates a current based on the voltage being applied to the element. The measurement process continues until a preset current value is reached. To avoid misleading readings, the sensor performs a regeneration where the soot is cleaned off by heating up the element before the measurement phase begins. The amount of regenerations is based on vehicle strategy; when the calibrated number of regenerations is reached, the cumulative current readings are used to determine the amount of soot concentration in the exhaust gas which in turn determines the collection efficiency of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the particular matter sensor control unit detects a fault in the particulate matter sensor circuitry.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
- Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor
- Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
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 P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?
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Frequently Asked Questions about P1479 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code
1. What does the OBDII code P1479 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The P1479 code indicates an issue with the Particulate Matter Sensor Sensitivity Factor Performance, meaning the sensor is not working as expected to monitor exhaust particulate levels.
2. What are the common symptoms of code P1479 on a 2016 Silverado?
Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, increased exhaust emissions, or poor engine performance.
3. What causes the P1479 code to appear on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Common causes include a faulty particulate matter sensor, wiring issues, sensor contamination from soot or debris, or a malfunction in the exhaust after-treatment system.
4. Can driving with the P1479 code damage my Silverado?
Driving with this code for an extended period can lead to increased emissions, potential damage to the diesel particulate filter (DPF), and reduced engine efficiency.
5. How do I diagnose the P1479 code on my 2016 Silverado?
Diagnosis involves checking the particulate matter sensor, inspecting the wiring and connections, and verifying the sensor’s data using a scan tool.
6. How can I fix the P1479 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Repairs may include cleaning or replacing the particulate matter sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or updating the vehicle's software if applicable.
7. Is the particulate matter sensor the same as the oxygen sensor?
No, the particulate matter sensor measures soot levels in the exhaust, while the oxygen sensor monitors oxygen levels to optimize air-fuel mixture.
8. Can a clogged diesel particulate filter (DPF) trigger the P1479 code?
Yes, a clogged DPF can increase soot levels and cause the particulate matter sensor to perform outside its expected range, triggering the code.
9. Will clearing the code with a scan tool fix the P1479 issue?
Clearing the code will temporarily remove the warning, but the issue will return if the underlying problem is not addressed.
10. Should I take my Silverado to a mechanic for the P1479 code?
If you’re unable to diagnose or fix the issue yourself, it’s recommended to consult a qualified mechanic with experience in diesel exhaust systems.
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