Engine-CodesGMC – B051B 2016 GMC Sierra

B051B 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The B051B diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2016 GMC Sierra relates to the right side assist step motor control circuit. Common causes include Faulty wiring or connectors in the right side assist step motor control circuit, Defective right side assist step motor, Corrosion or damage to electrical components in the circuit. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means
B051B 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty wiring or connectors in the right side assist step motor control circuit, Defective right side assist step motor, Corrosion or damage to electrical components in the circuit.
Severity
Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?
The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 17, 2024
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Code B051B 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The B051B diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2016 GMC Sierra relates to the right side assist step motor control circuit. This code indicates that there is a malfunction in the circuit responsible for controlling the motor that operates the right side assist step on the vehicle. The assist step motor is a component that extends and retracts the step to assist passengers in entering and exiting the vehicle easily. When this circuit malfunctions, it can lead to issues with the proper operation of the assist step, potentially causing inconvenience and safety concerns for passengers.

OBDII Code B051B 2016 GMC Sierra - Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051B 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

Common Causes of B051B 2016 GMC Sierra

  1. Faulty wiring or connectors in the right side assist step motor control circuit.
  2. Defective right side assist step motor.
  3. Corrosion or damage to electrical components in the circuit.
  4. Water intrusion causing shorts in the circuit.
  5. Issues with the PCM or other control modules related to the assist step system.

Symptoms of B051B 2016 GMC Sierra

  1. Right side assist step not extending or retracting properly.
  2. Unusual noises coming from the assist step motor.
  3. Warning light on the dashboard related to the assist step system.
  4. Difficulty entering or exiting the vehicle due to a malfunctioning assist step.
  5. In some cases, the vehicle may go into a limp mode to prevent further damage.

How to Fix B051B 2016 GMC Sierra

  1. Begin by conducting a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors in the right side assist step motor control circuit to check for any visible damage or corrosion.
  2. Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance in the circuit to pinpoint the source of the issue.
  3. If a fault is found in the wiring or connectors, repair or replace the damaged components as needed.
  4. If the assist step motor is determined to be faulty, it will need to be replaced with a new unit.
  5. Clear the DTC from the PCM's memory and test the assist step system to ensure proper functionality after the repair.

Cost to Fix B051B 2016 GMC Sierra

The cost of repairing the right side assist step motor control circuit can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the specific components that need to be replaced. In general, the cost of parts for this repair can range from $100 to $300, while labor costs can add another $100 to $200 to the total bill. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary based on factors such as location, vehicle make and model, and the rates charged by the auto repair shop. It's recommended to obtain quotes from local shops to get a more accurate cost estimate for this repair.

Tech Notes for B051B 2016 GMC Sierra

B051B:0B Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Current Above Threshold

B051B:01 Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Short to Battery

B051B:02 Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Short to Ground

B051B:04 Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Open Circuit

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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 B051B 2016 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code B051B mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The B051B code indicates an issue with the Right Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit, which refers to a fault in the electronic control for the motor that moves the right-side assist step.

What are common symptoms of the B051B code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms include the right-side assist step not deploying or retracting properly, unusual noises from the motor, or the assist step being stuck in one position.

What causes the B051B code to appear on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty assist step motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the motor control circuit, or a malfunction in the control module.

Can the B051B code be triggered by a blown fuse?

Yes, a blown fuse in the assist step motor circuit can interrupt power and trigger the B051B code.

How do you diagnose the B051B code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the assist step motor, checking the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the circuit for continuity, and scanning for additional trouble codes.

Can the B051B code affect other vehicle functions?

No, this code is specific to the assist step motor and typically does not affect other vehicle systems.

Is the right-side assist step still safe to use with the B051B code present?

If the step is stuck in an extended or retracted position, it may still be usable but could pose a safety hazard if it doesn’t function as intended.

How do you fix the B051B code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the assist step motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or addressing a fault in the control module.

Can the B051B code be cleared without repairs?

Clearing the code without fixing the underlying issue is not recommended, as the problem will likely persist and the code will reappear.

Should the assist step motor be replaced immediately if the B051B code is present?

Not necessarily; the motor should be tested first to confirm it is the cause of the fault, as the issue could also stem from wiring or the control module.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B051B 2016 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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