AutoCodesGMC – P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra

P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 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
P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Reductant Heater 2 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 246
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 P20BD 2015 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 line heater control circuit is open for greater than 4 s.
OBDII Code P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BD 2015 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 P20BD 2015 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 P20BD 2015 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 P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P20BD 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code P20BD for Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit in a 2015 GMC Sierra indicate?

This code indicates a malfunction in the control circuit of the Reductant Heater 2 system in the vehicle's emissions control system.

2. What are some common symptoms of OBDII code P20BD in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the illumination of the Check Engine Light, reduced engine performance, and potential failure to pass emission tests.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P20BD in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty Reductant Heater 2, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, a blown fuse, or issues with the powertrain control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P20BD in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, checking the Reductant Heater 2 system components for faults, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the powertrain control module.

5. What are the repair options for addressing OBDII code P20BD in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty Reductant Heater 2, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing blown fuses, or reprogramming or replacing the powertrain control module if necessary.

6. Can I continue driving my 2015 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P20BD present?

It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to reduced engine performance and potential emission control system issues.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P20BD in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

8. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code P20BD in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Regularly servicing the vehicle, including checking the emission control system components, can help prevent issues that may trigger this code.

9. Can I reset the Check Engine Light after repairing OBDII code P20BD in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Once the underlying issue is fixed, the Check Engine Light can be reset using a diagnostic scanner to clear the code and turn off the warning light.

10. Should I attempt to repair OBDII code P20BD in my 2015 GMC Sierra myself, or is it best left to a professional?

Due to the complexity of the emission control system and electrical components involved, it is generally recommended to have this code diagnosed and repaired by a qualified automotive technician.

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