AutoCodesGMC – P20BE 2016 GMC Sierra

P20BE 2016 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 2016 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 168
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 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 line heater resistance is greater or less than a calibrated value for greater than 8 s.
OBDII Code P20BE 2016 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 2 Performance - AutoCodes.com
P20BE 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BE 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 P20BE 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 P20BE 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 P20BE 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P20BE 2016 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 P20BE 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P20BE in a 2016 GMC Sierra related to Reductant Heater 2 Performance?

The common symptoms include the Check Engine Light turning on, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with the vehicle's emissions system.

2. What could cause the OBDII code P20BE to trigger in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The code P20BE is typically triggered when there is a malfunction in the reductant heater 2 circuit, which can be caused by a faulty heater element, wiring issues, or a problem with the control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P20BE in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing the issue involves inspecting the reductant heater 2 circuit for any visible damage, testing the heater element for continuity, checking the wiring for any shorts or open circuits, and using a diagnostic scan tool to monitor the system.

4. Can I still drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the OBDII code P20BE active?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the code P20BE active, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, potential damage to the emissions system, and may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P20BE in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairing the issue may involve replacing the reductant heater 2, repairing any damaged wiring, clearing the fault codes with a diagnostic scan tool, and conducting a test drive to ensure the problem is resolved.

6. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent OBDII code P20BE from occurring in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Regularly inspecting the emissions system components, ensuring proper maintenance of the reductant heater system, and using high-quality diesel exhaust fluid can help prevent issues that may trigger the P20BE code.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P20BE in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

While some basic diagnostics and repairs can be done by a DIY enthusiast, diagnosing and repairing complex issues related to the reductant heater system may require specialized tools and expertise, so professional assistance is recommended.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P20BE in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairing the P20BE code can vary depending on the cause of the issue, the extent of the damage, and labor rates. It is advisable to get a diagnosis from a qualified mechanic for an accurate estimate.

9. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P20BE in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Simply resetting the check engine light without addressing the underlying issue causing the P20BE code will not solve the problem. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause to prevent the code from reoccurring.

10. How serious is OBDII code P20BE in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

While the P20BE code may not always result in immediate drivability issues, it is important to address the problem promptly to prevent potential damage to the emissions system, ensure proper vehicle performance, and comply with emissions regulations.

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