AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 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) 5, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 5, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 circuit poor electrical connection.
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.

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Code Popularity 296

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 Jul 03, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 5
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2481 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 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 P2481 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 P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2481 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

P2481 indicates that the Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor 5 is detecting a low voltage issue, which could affect the vehicleâ€™s emissions system.

2. What are the symptoms of code P2481 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common symptoms include the Check Engine Light illuminating, poor fuel efficiency, reduced engine performance, and potential overheating of the exhaust system.

3. What causes the P2481 code to appear on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes include a faulty EGT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a poor electrical connection, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with the P2481 code active?

Itâ€™s not recommended, as driving with this code active can lead to further damage to the exhaust system or reduced engine efficiency.

5. How do I diagnose the P2481 code on my Silverado?

Diagnose the issue by using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, visually inspecting the EGT sensor and its wiring for damage, and testing the sensor's voltage with a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the P2481 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the EGT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or reflashing/updating the PCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P2481 code?

The cost can vary, but replacing an EGT sensor typically ranges from $150 to $300, including parts and labor.

8. Where is Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 located on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Sensor 5 is usually located near the exhaust system, often downstream of the turbocharger or catalytic converter, depending on the engine configuration.

9. Can a bad EGT sensor cause other problems in my Silverado?

Yes, a faulty EGT sensor can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the catalytic converter or other exhaust components.

10. How can I prevent the P2481 code from occurring again?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting the exhaust system and sensors for damage and ensuring proper electrical connections, can help prevent this code from recurring.