AutoCodes – GMC – P2481 2016 GMC Sierra

P2481 2016 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra 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 179

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 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 P2481 2016 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P2481 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2481 2016 GMC Sierra?

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 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 P2481 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 P2481 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2481 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 P2481 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2481 in a 2016 GMC Sierra related to Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage?

The common symptoms include poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2481 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes of code P2481 include a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning PCM, or issues with the exhaust system.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code P2481 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing code P2481 involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the exhaust gas temperature sensor and related components for damage, and testing the wiring and connectors for proper connectivity.

4. Can I continue driving my 2016 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P2481 active?

It is not recommended to drive with code P2481 active, as it can lead to further damage to the engine and emissions system. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P2481 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repair tips for resolving code P2481 include replacing the faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the fault code with an OBDII scanner after the repairs are completed.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P2481 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairing code P2481 can vary depending on the extent of the issue and whether you perform the repairs yourself or take your vehicle to a mechanic. Costs may include parts and labor.

7. Can I reset OBDII code P2481 in my 2016 GMC Sierra without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the fault code with an OBDII scanner, it's crucial to address the root cause of the problem to prevent the code from reoccurring.

8. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code P2481 from appearing in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting and replacing sensors as needed, keeping the exhaust system in good condition, and addressing any engine performance issues promptly, can help prevent code P2481 from appearing.

9. How urgent is it to address OBDII code P2481 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

It is recommended to address code P2481 promptly to prevent potential damage to the engine or emissions system, as well as to ensure optimal vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

10. What should I do if OBDII code P2481 keeps coming back in my 2016 GMC Sierra after repairs?

If code P2481 keeps reappearing after repairs, it may indicate an unresolved issue or a more complex problem. In such cases, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or dealership may be necessary to diagnose and fix the issue effectively.