AutoCodes – GMC – P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra

P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra Code - NOx Sensor 2 Heater Control Circuit

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
P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra indicates NOx Sensor 2 Heater Control Circuit.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 162
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 24, 2024
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Code P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra 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 P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra - NOx Sensor 2 Heater Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra Code - NOx Sensor 2 Heater Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra?

  • 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 P22A3 2016 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 P22A3 2016 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 P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the 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 P22A3 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P22A3 mean for a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The P22A3 code indicates an issue with the NOx sensor 2 heater control circuit, which means the heater element in the downstream NOx sensor is not functioning properly.

2. What are the symptoms of the P22A3 code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include a check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, possible limp mode, and increased emissions.

3. What causes the P22A3 code to appear?

Possible causes include a faulty NOx sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. How does the NOx sensor heater work in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The NOx sensor heater helps the sensor reach operating temperature quickly to accurately monitor nitrogen oxide levels in the exhaust system.

5. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P22A3 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended for an extended period, as it may lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the emissions system.

6. How can I diagnose the P22A3 code on my GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the NOx sensor wiring and connectors, testing the heater circuit with a multimeter, and verifying the operation of the PCM.

7. How do I fix the P22A3 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty NOx sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a blown fuse in the heater circuit.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P22A3 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The repair cost can vary but typically ranges from $300 to $600 for parts and labor, depending on whether the NOx sensor or wiring needs replacement.

9. Can a failing NOx sensor damage other components in my GMC Sierra?

Yes, a malfunctioning NOx sensor can cause improper DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) dosing, which might lead to issues with the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system over time.

10. Will clearing the P22A3 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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