AutoCodesGMC – P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra

P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 1 Performance

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
P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Reductant Heater 1 Performance.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 153
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 29, 2022
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P20BA 2016 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 resistance is greater or less than a calibrated value for greater than 8 s.
OBDII Code P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 1 Performance - AutoCodes.com
P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 1 Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BA 2016 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 P20BA 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 P20BA 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 P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P20BA (Reductant Heater 1 Performance) in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include the check engine light coming on, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with emissions control.

2. What does the OBDII code P20BA indicate in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

This code specifically points to a performance issue with Reductant Heater 1, which is part of the vehicle's emissions control system.

3. What are possible causes of OBDII code P20BA in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty reductant heater 1, wiring issues, a failed heating element, or a malfunctioning control module.

4. How can I diagnose the source of OBDII code P20BA in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the reductant heater 1 for proper operation, inspecting the wiring for damage, and testing the control module for functionality.

5. Can I continue driving my 2016 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P20BA (Reductant Heater 1 Performance)?

It is not recommended to ignore this code, as it can lead to increased emissions and potential damage to the vehicle's emissions control system. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P20BA in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is important to diagnose and repair the underlying issue to prevent the code from reappearing.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P20BA in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve replacing the reductant heater 1, repairing wiring, or addressing control module problems.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P20BA in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, DIY repair may be possible for simple issues like checking and replacing fuses or inspecting wiring. However, more complex repairs may require professional assistance.

9. What are the implications of ignoring OBDII code P20BA in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Ignoring this code can lead to increased emissions, potential damage to the catalytic converter, and may cause the vehicle to fail emissions tests.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P20BA from occurring in my 2016 GMC Sierra in the future?

Regular maintenance, including checking the health of the emissions control system, can help prevent issues like P20BA. Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is crucial.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

Code P20BA 2016 GMC Sierra comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play