AutoCodes – GMC – P242A GMC

P242A GMC Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 3

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) for proper circuit continuity and out of range high values. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 3, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 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: P242A GMC indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 3.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 3, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 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 1,853

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 Jan 15, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P242A GMC Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) for proper circuit continuity and out of range high values. The EGTS is located in front of the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and/or in front of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The EGTS detects exhaust gas temperature and converts it into a voltage and feeds back to the PCM with the voltage signal in order to control engine conditions to effectively reduce emissions. The PCM sets the P242A OBDII code when the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor is out of factory specifications.

OBDII Code P242A GMC - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 3 - AutoCodes.com — P242A GMC Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 3

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P242A GMC?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 3
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection
Exhaust leaks
Excessive particulate matter buildup on sensor

How to Fix the DTC P242A 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P242A 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.

Need more information about the P242A GMC 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 P242A GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P242A GMC?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine power, poor fuel efficiency, illuminated Check Engine Light, and possible rough idle.

2. What does the OBDII code P242A GMC mean?

- This code indicates a problem with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit for Bank 1 Sensor 3, which monitors the temperature of exhaust gases.

3. What can cause the OBDII code P242A GMC to trigger?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, wiring issues, sensor circuit malfunction, or a problem with the sensor's signal.

4. How serious is the OBDII code P242A GMC?

- While the vehicle may still be driveable with this code, it is important to address it promptly to prevent potential damage to the engine or emissions system.

5. Can I continue to drive my vehicle with the OBDII code P242A GMC present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to poor engine performance and potential long-term damage.

6. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P242A GMC?

- A proper diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the exhaust gas temperature sensor and its wiring, and testing the sensor's functionality.

7. What are some repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P242A GMC?

- Repair tips include checking and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, and clearing the code with an OBDII scanner after the repair.

8. Can I reset the OBDII code P242A GMC without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is important to address the underlying issue to prevent the code from reoccurring and causing further problems.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P242A GMC?

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

10. Is it possible to prevent the OBDII code P242A GMC from appearing again in the future?

- Regular maintenance, such as keeping up with sensor inspections and ensuring proper wiring connections, can help prevent the recurrence of this code.