AutoCodes – GMC – P2160 2018 GMC Sierra

P2160 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) provides vehicle speed information to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor 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: P2160 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor 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 398

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 08, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2160 2018 GMC Sierra Description

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) provides vehicle speed information to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The VSS is a permanent magnet generator. The sensor is mounted in the transfer case facing the rear internal gear which is splined to the output shaft assembly. As the output shaft and internal gear rotate, the toothed rotor of the internal gear produces AC voltage as the rotor teeth pass through the magnetic field of the sensor. The AC voltage level and the number of pulses increase as the speed of the vehicle increases. The ECM converts the voltage to vehicle speed. The ECM uses the output shaft speed signal to determine shift timing, as well as transfer case range. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when there is no speed signal from the transfer case speed sensor.

OBDII Code P2160 2018 GMC Sierra - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P2160 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2160 2018 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2160 2018 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 P2160 2018 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 P2160 2018 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2160 2018 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 P2160 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2160 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, fluctuating or non-functional cruise control, and the illumination of the check engine light.

2. What does the "Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage" mean in relation to the P2160 OBDII code?

- This code indicates that the vehicle's onboard computer has detected a low voltage signal from the second vehicle speed sensor circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of the P2160 code on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Possible causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the speed sensor circuit, or issues with the vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM).

4. How can I diagnose the issue causing the P2160 code in my GMC Sierra?

- Diagnosing the problem involves conducting a thorough inspection of the vehicle speed sensor, checking the wiring for damage, and using a diagnostic scan tool to analyze the PCM data.

5. Can I continue driving my GMC Sierra with the P2160 code present?

- It is generally not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P2160 code active, as it can lead to inaccurate speed readings and potential issues with other vehicle systems.

6. How can I repair the "Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage" issue in my 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Repair options include replacing the faulty vehicle speed sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the PCM to clear the code.

7. Is it possible to reset the P2160 code in a GMC Sierra without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code temporarily with a diagnostic tool is possible, the underlying problem causing the code will need to be addressed to prevent it from reoccurring.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the occurrence of the P2160 code in a GMC Sierra?

- Yes, extreme temperatures or moisture can potentially impact the performance of the vehicle speed sensor and lead to the triggering of the P2160 code.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the P2160 code in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Will a P2160 code on a 2018 GMC Sierra affect the vehicle's overall performance?

- While the vehicle may still be operable with the P2160 code present, it is advisable to address the issue promptly to prevent potential complications and ensure optimal performance.