AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P2481 Chevrolet

P2481 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 4,061

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P2481 Chevrolet Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2481 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2481 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2481 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

P2481 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage
P2481 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage
P2481 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage
P2481 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage
P2481 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage

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 Chevrolet Code

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

- Common symptoms include poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What are possible causes of OBDII code P2481 in a Chevrolet?

- Possible causes include a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, wiring issues, a damaged sensor connector, or a malfunctioning PCM.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2481 in my Chevrolet?

- Diagnose the issue by checking the exhaust gas temperature sensor 5 and its wiring for any visible damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and inspecting the sensor connector for corrosion or loose connections.

4. Can OBDII code P2481 in a Chevrolet be fixed by simply resetting the Check Engine Light?

- Resetting the Check Engine Light may temporarily clear the code, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the code to trigger. It is essential to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

5. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P2481 related to Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 5 Circuit Low Voltage?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle for an extended period with this code as it can lead to further damage and potential engine issues. It is best to address the problem promptly.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P2481 in a Chevrolet themselves?

- Depending on your experience level and access to tools, you may be able to replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor and repair the wiring yourself. However, if you are unsure, it is recommended to seek professional help.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P2481 in a Chevrolet at a repair shop?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the labor rates of the repair shop. Generally, the cost can range from $150 to $400, including parts and labor.

8. Can a malfunctioning exhaust gas temperature sensor affect the overall performance of my Chevrolet?

- Yes, a malfunctioning exhaust gas temperature sensor can affect the engine's performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions output. It is crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage.

9. Are there any preventative measures I can take to avoid OBDII code P2481 in my Chevrolet?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing worn-out sensors and inspecting wiring harnesses for damage, can help prevent issues like OBDII code P2481 from occurring.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P2481 in a Chevrolet?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, the availability of parts, and the repair shop's workload. Generally, it can take a few hours to half a day to diagnose and fix the problem.