AutoCodesGMC – P20BF 2017 GMC Sierra

P20BF 2017 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 2017 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 271
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 2017 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 2017 GMC Sierra - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P20BF 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P20BF 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P20BF mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

P20BF indicates a problem with the Reductant Heater 2 Control Circuit, specifically low voltage detected by the vehicle's ECM.

What are the symptoms of code P20BF on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include a check engine light, reduced exhaust system efficiency, possible warning messages related to the DEF system, and difficulty maintaining proper DEF fluid temperature.

What causes the P20BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty reductant heater, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, a malfunctioning ECM, or low voltage due to electrical issues.

Can I drive my 2017 GMC Sierra with the P20BF code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, prolonged driving with this code can lead to decreased DEF system performance and possible issues with emissions compliance.

How do I diagnose the P20BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the reductant heater wiring and connectors for damage, testing the heater’s resistance, and verifying proper voltage and ground signals in the circuit.

What repairs can fix the P20BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the reductant heater, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, updating the ECM software, or replacing the ECM if necessary.

How much does it cost to repair the P20BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary, but replacing the reductant heater can range from $300 to $700, depending on labor rates and parts pricing.

Is a P20BF code covered under warranty for a 2017 GMC Sierra?

If your vehicle is still under emissions-related warranty, the reductant heater and associated components may be covered. Check with your dealer to confirm.

Can a P20BF code cause emissions test failure?

Yes, the P20BF code can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test due to improper DEF system operation.

What tools are needed to troubleshoot a P20BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing voltage and resistance, and possibly a wiring diagram for the reductant heater circuit.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P20BF 2017 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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