AutoCodes – GMC – P242C 2016 GMC Sierra

P242C 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 3, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature 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: P242C 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 3, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 174

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 Jul 03, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P242C 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Exhaust temperature sensor 1 is the first exhaust temperature sensor in the exhaust system, the following exhaust temperature sensors are counted upward from the engine outlet to the exhaust system end. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5 V to the exhaust gas temperature signal circuit and supplies a ground to the low reference circuit. The exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature information is used by the ECM during the exhaust gas particulate filter cleaning process. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will ve set when the ECM detects that the exhaust gas temperature sensor is less than 158 Ω for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P242C 2016 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P242C 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P242C 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 3
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P242C 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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

After starting the engine, the exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature should rise steadily, then stabilize after the engine reaches operating temperature. Exhaust gas temperature sensors may fail intermittently while operating under extreme temperatures. Review the Freeze Frame/Failure Records to verify the failure criteria.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P242C 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 P242C 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P242C 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P242C 2016 GMC Sierra 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 P242C 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P242C in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The common symptoms of code P242C include poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and illumination of the check engine light.

2. What can cause the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage error in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes of code P242C in a 2016 GMC Sierra include a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the sensor circuit.

3. How serious is the P242C code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

While the P242C code is not considered an emergency, it should be addressed promptly to prevent potential damage to the engine or catalytic converter.

4. Can I continue driving my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P242C code present?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the P242C code active, as it can lead to further issues and increased emissions.

5. How can I diagnose the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage error in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing code P242C typically requires a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code and inspecting the exhaust gas temperature sensor and related components.

6. Is it possible to repair the P242C code in a 2016 GMC Sierra myself?

While some may attempt DIY repairs, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic to properly diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing code P242C.

7. What are some general repair tips for fixing the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Low Voltage error in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repair tips for resolving code P242C may include checking and cleaning sensor connectors, replacing the exhaust gas temperature sensor, or repairing damaged wiring.

8. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the P242C code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing code P242C is not addressed, the error is likely to reappear.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the P242C code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairing code P242C can vary depending on the specific issue causing the error, the required parts, and labor costs. It is recommended to obtain quotes from different mechanics.

10. Can the P242C code in a 2016 GMC Sierra cause any long-term damage if left unaddressed?

Continued driving with the P242C code unresolved can potentially lead to increased emissions, reduced engine performance, and possible damage to the catalytic converter over time.