P151E 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator 1 Signal Message Counter Incorrect
Quick Answer
The active grille air shutter system closes shutters in the front grille to enhance vehicle aerodynamics in driving situations where cooling and A/C loads are relatively low and high levels of front-end airflow are not required. Common causes include Faulty Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator, Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator harness is open or shorted, Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator 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
- P151E 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator 1 Signal Message Counter Incorrect.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator, Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator harness is open or shorted, Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator 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 P151E 2016 GMC Sierra Description
The dual active grille air shutter system consists of two aero shutter mechanisms located in the front grille for controlling the amount of air flowing through the grille. It includes three wires; ground, power, and a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) Bus serial data circuit from the ECM to the shutter actuator. The ECM determines shutter state based on various vehicle conditions such as vehicle speed, coolant temperature, fan state, refrigerant system pressure, A/C compressor state, and ambient temperature. The ECM has the ability to command each shutter individually to the open or closed positions through communications on the LIN Bus.
The actuators are powered by an ignition circuit that is active when the key is in the RUN position. The vehicle may have to be driven for up to 13 minutes at speeds greater than 41 km/h (25 mph) before a shutter begins to move. If low ambient temperature is detected, the shutters will remain in the closed position.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if there a LIN Bus Communication Malfunction
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P151E 2016 GMC Sierra?
- Faulty Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator
- Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator harness is open or shorted
- Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P151E 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 P151E 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 P151E 2016 GMC Sierra Code
1. What does the OBDII code P151E mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?
P151E indicates an issue with the Active Grille Air Shutter Actuator 1, where the signal message counter is incorrect, potentially causing improper shutter operation.
2. What are the common symptoms of code P151E in a 2016 GMC Sierra?
Common symptoms include a check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, overheating at low speeds, or visible grille shutters stuck open or closed.
3. What causes the P151E code to appear?
Causes include a malfunctioning grille shutter actuator, damaged wiring or connectors, a software issue in the powertrain control module (PCM), or physical obstruction of the shutters.
4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P151E code?
While the vehicle may remain drivable, ignoring the code could lead to reduced fuel efficiency, cooling system issues, or further damage to the grille shutter system.
5. How do I fix the P151E code on my GMC Sierra?
Inspect the grille shutter system for physical obstructions and check the wiring and actuator for damage. If no issues are found, the actuator may need replacement or the PCM may require reprogramming.
6. How much does it cost to repair the P151E code?
Repair costs can range from $150 to $500, depending on whether the issue is a simple wiring fix, actuator replacement, or PCM reprogramming.
7. What tools are needed to diagnose the P151E code?
You’ll need an OBDII scanner capable of reading manufacturer-specific codes, a multimeter to check wiring, and potentially access to the vehicle’s service manual.
8. Can a software update resolve the P151E code?
In some cases, a PCM software update from the dealership may resolve the issue if it’s related to communication errors.
9. What happens if the Active Grille Air Shutter system fails completely?
A complete failure can lead to reduced engine cooling efficiency, increased aerodynamic drag, and potentially higher fuel consumption.
10. Is the P151E code related to engine performance?
While not directly affecting engine performance, it can indirectly impact fuel efficiency and cooling, which may affect overall vehicle operation.
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