AutoCodesGMC – P20BF 2015 GMC Sierra

P20BF 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage

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
P20BF 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage.
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 213
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 P20BF 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 shorted to ground or overloaded for greater than 4 s.
OBDII Code P20BF 2015 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P20BF 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BF 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 P20BF 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 P20BF 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 P20BF 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 P20BF 2015 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P20BF mean for a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P20BF indicates an issue with the Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit, specifically low voltage, which affects the vehicle's DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) system.

What are the symptoms of the P20BF code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include the Check Engine Light turning on, DEF system warnings, reduced engine performance, or difficulty maintaining proper emissions levels.

What causes the P20BF code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty reductant heater, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, or issues with the power supply to the heater.

Can driving with the P20BF code damage my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Driving with this code may lead to reduced engine efficiency and emissions problems, but immediate damage is unlikely unless the DEF system becomes completely inoperative.

How do I diagnose the P20BF code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the reductant heater circuit, checking for damaged wiring or connectors, and testing the heater's resistance and voltage supply.

Can I fix the P20BF code on my 2015 GMC Sierra myself?

If you’re comfortable working with electrical components, you can check the wiring and connectors for damage. However, replacing the reductant heater may require professional assistance.

What is the reductant heater’s role in the DEF system?

The reductant heater prevents DEF from freezing in cold temperatures, ensuring proper operation of the emissions system.

How much does it cost to repair the P20BF code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $200 to $600 for parts and labor, depending on whether the reductant heater or wiring needs replacement.

Will clearing the P20BF code solve the problem on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Clearing the code won’t fix the underlying issue; the problem must be diagnosed and repaired to prevent the code from returning.

Can a faulty reductant heater affect fuel economy?

Yes, a malfunctioning reductant heater can impair the DEF system, potentially leading to reduced engine efficiency and higher fuel consumption.

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