AutoCodes – GMC – P251E 2018 GMC Sierra

P251E 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Power Take-Off (PTO) is an upfitter integrated system that allows the user to create an auxiliary power source. Common causes include Faulty Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Module, Power Take-Off Control Module harness is open or shorted, Power Take-Off Control Module circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P251E 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Module, Power Take-Off Control Module harness is open or shorted, Power Take-Off Control Module circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

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

Code Popularity 137

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 21, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P251E 2018 GMC Sierra Description

The Power Take-Off (PTO) is an upfitter integrated system that allows the user to create an auxiliary power source. The PTO system specifically controls engine speed to values higher than normal base idle, PTO load relay engagement, and remote starting and shutdown of the engine. When the operator requests PTO using either the PTO switch or PTO remote, the engine RPM will increase to a default standby speed. The Engine Control Module (ECM) converts the data from the engine speed sensor to a 2 pulses/engine revolution signal. When PTO is engaged, the power take-off control module sends a serial data message to the ECM requesting engine speeds, in response to signals from the PTO switch or remote.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Power Take-Off Control Module detects a fault on the PTO engine shutdown control circuit that is above or below a predetermined voltage threshold.

OBDII Code P251E 2018 GMC Sierra - Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P251E 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P251E 2018 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Power Take-Off (PTO) Control Module
Power Take-Off Control Module harness is open or shorted
Power Take-Off Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P251E 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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P251E 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 P251E 2018 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P251E 2018 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P251E 2018 GMC Sierra 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 P251E 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P251E in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Common symptoms include the power take-off system not engaging properly, engine shutdown control issues, and an illuminated check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P251E "Power Take-Off Engine Shutdown Control Circuit Low Voltage" mean for a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- This code indicates that the power take-off engine shutdown control circuit is detecting a lower voltage than expected, potentially leading to operational issues.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P251E in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Possible causes include faulty power take-off components, damaged wiring or connectors, a failed engine shutdown control module, or low battery voltage.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P251E in my 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Diagnosing the code involves inspecting the power take-off system, checking the wiring for any damage, and using a diagnostic scanner to analyze the engine shutdown control circuit.

5. Can I still drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P251E present?

- It's not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it can lead to potential power take-off system malfunctions and engine shutdown issues.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P251E in my 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Repair options include fixing any damaged wiring, replacing faulty power take-off components, addressing issues with the engine shutdown control module, and clearing the trouble codes.

7. Is it safe to continue using the power take-off system in my 2018 GMC Sierra with code P251E?

- It's advisable to avoid using the power take-off system until the underlying cause of the code is diagnosed and repaired to prevent further damage.

8. What are the implications of ignoring OBDII code P251E in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- Ignoring this code can lead to unreliable operation of the power take-off system, potential engine shutdown problems, and decreased overall vehicle performance.

9. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code P251E in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve parts replacement, wiring repairs, and labor costs, which can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P251E in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by a DIY enthusiast, diagnosing and repairing this code may require specialized tools and expertise, so professional assistance is often recommended.