AutoCodesGMC – P2481 2018 GMC Sierra

P2481 2018 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 2018 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 194
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 03, 2022
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Code P2481 2018 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 2018 GMC Sierra - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P2481 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2481 2018 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 2018 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2481 2018 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 2018 GMC Sierra 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 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2481 mean on a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The P2481 code indicates a problem with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit, specifically that it is reading low voltage.

2. What are the symptoms of the P2481 code on a GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include a check engine light, poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and possible issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration process.

3. What causes the P2481 code to appear?

The most common causes are a faulty exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the EGT sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. Can I drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with the P2481 code?

While it may be possible to drive, ignoring the issue can lead to further damage, especially to the DPF system, and may cause reduced performance over time.

5. How do I diagnose the P2481 code?

Diagnosis involves checking the EGT Sensor 5 for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and using a multimeter to test voltage and resistance in the circuit.

6. How is the P2481 code fixed?

Repairs typically include replacing the faulty EGT Sensor 5, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming/updating the PCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P2481 code on a GMC Sierra?

The cost of repair depends on the issue, with EGT sensor replacement costing around $100-$300, plus labor. Wiring repairs or PCM reprogramming may vary.

8. What happens if I don’t fix the P2481 code?

If left unresolved, the P2481 code can prevent proper DPF regeneration, leading to clogged filters, decreased engine performance, and potential long-term engine damage.

9. Can a bad EGT sensor cause the P2481 code?

Yes, a bad or failing EGT Sensor 5 is one of the most common causes of the P2481 code.

10. Does clearing the P2481 code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code may resolve the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

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