AutoCodes – GMC – P2161 GMC

P2161 GMC Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent

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: P2161 GMC indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent.
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 5,306

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
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2161 GMC 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 a loss of speed signal from the transfer case speed sensor.

OBDII Code P2161 GMC - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P2161 GMC Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2161 GMC?

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 P2161 GMC?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2161 GMC 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.

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Information for Specific GMC Models

P2161 2014 GMC Sierra — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent
P2161 2015 GMC Sierra — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent
P2161 2016 GMC Sierra — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent
P2161 2017 GMC Sierra — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent
P2161 2018 GMC Sierra — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent

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 P2161 GMC Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P2161 GMC (Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent)?

- Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, inaccurate odometer readings, issues with cruise control, and potential transmission shifting problems.

2. What are possible causes of OBDII code P2161 GMC?

- Possible causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors related to the speed sensor, a defective ECM, or issues with the transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2161 GMC?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code, checking the vehicle speed sensor for proper operation, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the ECM and transmission control module.

4. Can OBDII code P2161 GMC be repaired without professional help?

- Depending on your automotive repair skills, you may be able to repair this code by replacing the faulty vehicle speed sensor or repairing damaged wiring. However, professional help may be needed for more complex issues.

5. Are there any tips for repairing OBDII code P2161 GMC?

- When repairing this code, ensure the vehicle speed sensor is properly installed and aligned, use OEM parts for replacements, and carefully inspect all related wiring and connectors for any signs of damage.

6. Will OBDII code P2161 GMC cause my vehicle to fail an emissions test?

- The severity of this code may vary, but if left unresolved, it could potentially cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test due to its impact on the vehicle's speed sensor and related systems.

7. Can driving with OBDII code P2161 GMC cause further damage to my vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with this code may lead to inaccurate speed readings, potential transmission issues, and negatively affect fuel efficiency. It's best to address the underlying problem promptly.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P2161 GMC?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the cause of the issue, the need for replacement parts, and whether professional labor is required. Costs can range from a simple sensor replacement to more extensive repairs.

9. Is it safe to drive my vehicle with OBDII code P2161 GMC illuminated?

- While driving with this code may not pose an immediate safety risk, it's important to address the underlying issue promptly to avoid potential transmission problems and ensure accurate speed readings.

10. Can resetting the OBDII system clear OBDII code P2161 GMC?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue with the vehicle speed sensor or related components is not resolved, the code is likely to reappear.