AutoCodes – GMC – P246C GMC

P246C GMC Code - Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction Forced Limited Power

Quick Answer

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is monitored for conditions where it may be overloaded. Common causes include Faulty Diesel Particulate Filter. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P246C GMC indicates Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction Forced Limited Power.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Diesel Particulate Filter.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

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

Code Popularity 1,578

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 15, 2019

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 P246C GMC Description

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is monitored for conditions where it may be overloaded. The monitor compares the calculated restriction of the DPF to two thresholds. By exceeding the first threshold for a sufficient period of time, a wrench light will be illuminated. By exceeding the second threshold for a sufficient period of time, a wrench light and a MIL will be illuminated and engine output will be limited and EGR is disabled.

OBDII Code P246C GMC - Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction Forced Limited Power - AutoCodes.com — P246C GMC Code - Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction Forced Limited Power

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P246C GMC?

Faulty Diesel Particulate Filter

How to Fix the DTC P246C 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

To resolve this, you have to change the Diesel Particulate Filter and reset the code with an OBDII scanner.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P246C 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 P246C GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P246C GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P246C GMC 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 P246C GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P246C GMC?

- Common symptoms of code P246C include reduced engine power, decreased fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P246C GMC indicate?

- The code P246C indicates a restriction in the diesel particulate filter, leading to limited power output to protect the engine from damage.

3. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P246C GMC?

- The potential causes of code P246C include a clogged diesel particulate filter, faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, or issues with the diesel oxidation catalyst.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P246C GMC?

- Diagnosis of code P246C typically involves scanning the vehicle's onboard computer with an OBDII scanner to retrieve the fault code and performing a visual inspection of the diesel particulate filter system.

5. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code P246C GMC?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P246C, as the limited power output can affect the engine's performance and lead to further damage if left unresolved.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P246C GMC?

- Repairing code P246C may involve cleaning or replacing the diesel particulate filter, checking and replacing the exhaust gas temperature sensor, or addressing any issues with the diesel oxidation catalyst.

7. Are there any DIY tips for resolving OBDII code P246C GMC?

- DIY tips for resolving code P246C include checking for any visible blockages in the diesel particulate filter, ensuring proper maintenance of the exhaust system, and following manufacturer-recommended service intervals.

8. Can resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P246C GMC?

- Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but it will not address the underlying issue causing code P246C. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

9. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P246C GMC?

- The cost of fixing code P246C can vary depending on the specific issue causing the restriction in the diesel particulate filter. Costs may include parts replacement, labor, and diagnostic fees.

10. Is it safe to ignore OBDII code P246C GMC?

- Ignoring code P246C can lead to further damage to the engine and emission control system. It is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent more serious problems.