AutoCodesGMC – P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra

P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit

Quick Answer

As reductant will freeze at temperatures below -11°C (12°F), there are 2 reductant heaters located in the reductant tank. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Heater, Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted, Reductant Heater 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
P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Reductant Heater, Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted, Reductant Heater 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 292
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 29, 2022
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Code P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra Description

As reductant will freeze at temperatures below -11°C (12°F), there are 2 reductant heaters located in the reductant tank. One heats the reductant in the tank, and one heats the reductant supplied to the reductant injector supply pipe. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the reductant temperature in the tank in order to determine if the reductant temperature is below its freeze point. If the ECM determines that the reductant may be frozen, it activates a "defrost strategy" energizing the reductant eater. This energizing action terminates when the temperature sensor measures a threshold value over which the heater must be deactivated.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM indicates the reductant tank heater control circuit is open for greater than 4 s.
OBDII Code P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Reductant Heater
  • Reductant Heater harness is open or shorted
  • Reductant Heater circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Reductant Pump and Sensor Assembly
  • Faulty Reductant Control Module

How to Fix the DTC P20B9 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 P20B9 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 P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra 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 P20B9 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra include the check engine light coming on, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with the vehicle's emissions system.

2. What does the OBDII code P20B9 indicate in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra indicates a problem with the Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit, specifically related to the operation of the reductant heater.

3. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The potential causes of OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra may include a faulty reductant heater 1, a wiring issue in the control circuit, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P20B9 in my 2018 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the reductant heater 1 components, checking the wiring for any damage, and testing the ECM for proper operation.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

It is generally not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra, as it can lead to potential damage to the emissions system and reduced engine performance. It is best to address the issue promptly.

6. Can I repair OBDII code P20B9 in my 2018 GMC Sierra myself?

While some DIY enthusiasts may attempt to repair OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra, it is recommended to seek professional help, especially for diagnosing and repairing electrical issues like the Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit problem.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The cost to repair OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue, the location of the repair, and the labor rates of the mechanic. It is advisable to obtain quotes from different repair shops.

8. What are some tips to prevent OBDII code P20B9 from recurring in my 2018 GMC Sierra?

To prevent OBDII code P20B9 from recurring in a 2018 GMC Sierra, it is important to perform regular maintenance on the vehicle, address any warning lights promptly, and avoid driving the vehicle if any issues are detected.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The time it takes to repair OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra can vary depending on the complexity of the issue, the availability of parts, and the workload of the repair shop. It is advisable to inquire about the estimated repair time before proceeding.

10. Can OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra cause any long-term damage if left untreated?

If left untreated, OBDII code P20B9 in a 2018 GMC Sierra can potentially lead to long-term damage to the emissions system, reduced fuel efficiency, and engine performance issues. It is important to address the code promptly to prevent further damage.

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