AutoCodesGMC – P20BE 2015 GMC Sierra

P20BE 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 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
P20BE 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Reductant Heater 2 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.
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Code Popularity 183
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 P20BE 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 resistance is greater or less than a calibrated value for greater than 8 s.
OBDII Code P20BE 2015 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 2 Performance - AutoCodes.com
P20BE 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BE 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 P20BE 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 P20BE 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 P20BE 2015 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 P20BE 2015 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBD-II code P20BE mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The code P20BE indicates an issue with the performance of Reductant Heater 2, which is responsible for heating the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) in cold conditions.

What symptoms might occur with the P20BE code?

Common symptoms include a Check Engine Light, reduced DEF system efficiency, or warnings related to the exhaust system and emissions on the dashboard.

What causes the P20BE code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a malfunctioning reductant heater, damaged wiring, corroded electrical connectors, or a fault in the DEF system control module.

Can driving with the P20BE code damage the vehicle?

While driving is possible, ignoring the code can lead to reduced emissions performance and potentially cause the truck to enter a limited power mode.

How is the P20BE code diagnosed?

A mechanic typically uses an OBD-II scanner to confirm the code, inspects the DEF tank heater and wiring, and checks for proper voltage and resistance readings in the system.

How can the P20BE code be fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing the reductant heater, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or updating the DEF system control module if necessary.

How much does it cost to fix the P20BE code?

Repair costs can range from $300 to $800 depending on labor rates and whether the reductant heater or associated components need replacement.

Can the P20BE code be cleared without repairs?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying problem will likely cause it to return, as the issue with the reductant heater remains unresolved.

What tools are needed to fix the P20BE code?

Tools may include an OBD-II scanner, multimeter, and basic hand tools for accessing the DEF tank and heater assembly.

Does the P20BE code affect emissions compliance?

Yes, the code impacts emissions compliance, as the DEF system is critical for reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in diesel engines.

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