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P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - NOx Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor 2, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 2 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: P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates NOx Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor 2, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 2 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 240

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 24, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. There are two NOx sensors, one placed upstream of selective catalytic reduction, to measure inlet NOx concentration, and one placed downstream. They are connected with the control module via CAN and all the information is exchanged through it. Since it is a smart sensor, all the electrical monitoring is performed inside the sensor and only the results are sent to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Each NOx sensor contains a sensing cell, a pumping cell, and a heater. A sample of exhaust gas passes through a diffusion gap between the sensing cell and the pumping cell. The NOx sensor maintains a constant reference voltage across the sensing cell. An electronic circuit within the sensor controls the pump current through the pumping cell in order to maintain a constant voltage in the sensing cell. The amount of current required to maintain the reference voltage in the sensing cell is proportional to the concentration of NOx in the exhaust. The ECM varies the amount of diesel exhaust fluid (reductant) added by varying the reductant injector duty cycle in response to changes in engine exhaust NOx levels. The smart NOx sensors consist of two components, the NOx module and the NOx sensor element that are serviced as a unit. A circuit or performance condition with a NOx sensor is detected by the NOx sensor module. The smart NOx sensor module communicates the condition to the ECM over the serial data line. The ECM sets a DTC when a serial data message is received from the NOx sensor module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM software detects a fault in the NOx sensor circuitry or a performance fault in the NOx sensor for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - NOx Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - NOx Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor 2
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P22A0 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P22A0 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

P22A0 indicates a "NOx Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage" issue, meaning the downstream NOx sensor is detecting a voltage level below the expected range.

2. What are the symptoms of code P22A0 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and possible limp mode activation.

3. What causes the P22A0 code to appear?

The most common causes are a faulty NOx sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the NOx sensor circuit, or issues with the Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. Can a bad NOx sensor cause damage to my Silverado?

While a bad NOx sensor wonâ€™t directly damage the vehicle, ignoring the issue can lead to higher emissions, poor engine performance, and potential damage to the exhaust after-treatment system over time.

5. How do I diagnose the P22A0 code?

Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, testing the NOx sensor with a multimeter, and checking for proper ECM voltage and ground connections.

6. Is it safe to drive with the P22A0 code?

Driving with this code is generally safe for short distances, but prolonged driving can lead to increased emissions and potential damage to the exhaust system.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P22A0 code on a 2016 Silverado?

Replacing a NOx sensor typically costs between $400 and $800, including parts and labor. Repairs to wiring or connectors may vary depending on the extent of the damage.

8. Can I clear the P22A0 code without fixing it?

You can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, but it will likely return if the underlying issue isnâ€™t resolved.

9. How do I prevent the P22A0 code from occurring again?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting the wiring and connectors, and using high-quality diesel fuel to minimize system contamination, can help prevent this issue.

10. Does the P22A0 code mean I need to replace the NOx sensor?

Not always. While a failed sensor is a common cause, itâ€™s important to rule out wiring issues or ECM malfunctions before replacing the sensor.