AutoCodesGMC – P257E 2015 GMC Sierra

P257E 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Engine Hood Switch Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) applies 5 V to the hood ajar signal circuit and monitors the voltage to determine the position of the hood. Common causes include Faulty Hood Ajar Switch, Hood Ajar Switch harness is open or shorted, Hood Ajar Switch 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
P257E 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Engine Hood Switch Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Hood Ajar Switch, Hood Ajar Switch harness is open or shorted, Hood Ajar Switch 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.
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Code Popularity 180
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 21, 2022
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Code P257E 2015 GMC Sierra Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) applies 5 V to the hood ajar signal circuit and monitors the voltage to determine the position of the hood. The hood ajar switch contains a multiplexed resistor. This resistor will vary the voltage seen by the Engine Control Module by pulling down the applied voltage based on the position of the switch. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Engine Control Module detects a short to ground in the hood ajar signal input to the Engine Control Module.
OBDII Code P257E 2015 GMC Sierra - Engine Hood Switch Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P257E 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Engine Hood Switch Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P257E 2015 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Hood Ajar Switch
  • Hood Ajar Switch harness is open or shorted
  • Hood Ajar Switch circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P257E 2015 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 P257E 2015 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 P257E 2015 GMC Sierra code?

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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 P257E 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P257E mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P257E indicates an issue with the engine hood switch circuit, specifically low voltage detected in the circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P257E code?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, hood ajar warning on the dashboard, or malfunctioning remote start.

3. What causes the P257E code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a faulty hood switch, corroded or damaged wiring, a disconnected connector, or a failing body control module (BCM).

4. Can a faulty hood switch cause the remote start to stop working?

Yes, if the hood switch circuit is malfunctioning, the vehicle may disable the remote start feature as a safety precaution.

5. How do you diagnose the P257E code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the hood switch for damage, checking the wiring and connectors for corrosion or breaks, and using a multimeter to test circuit voltage.

6. Is it safe to drive with the P257E code active?

Yes, but certain features like remote start may not function properly, and the check engine light may mask other potential issues.

7. How can you fix the P257E code?

Repairs may include replacing the hood switch, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming/repairing the BCM if necessary.

8. Where is the hood switch located on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The hood switch is typically located near the hood latch assembly under the hood of the vehicle.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P257E code?

Repair costs vary, but replacing the hood switch typically ranges from $50 to $150, while wiring repairs or BCM work may cost more.

10. Can clearing the P257E code solve the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the root cause is a temporary fix, and the code will likely return if the issue isn’t resolved.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P257E 2015 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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