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P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The P20BC diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a problem with the Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit High Voltage. Common causes include Faulty Reductant Heater: The reductant heater itself may be malfunctioning, leading to the high voltage condition, Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connections to the reductant heater can cause electrical problems, Defective Control Module: The control module responsible for regulating the reductant heater may be faulty. 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
P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Reductant Heater: The reductant heater itself may be malfunctioning, leading to the high voltage condition, Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connections to the reductant heater can cause electrical problems, Defective Control Module: The control module responsible for regulating the reductant heater may be faulty.
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.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 16, 2024
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Code P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The P20BC diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a problem with the Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit High Voltage. In modern diesel vehicles, a reductant heater is used to warm up the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) before it is injected into the exhaust stream. This helps reduce harmful emissions by converting nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water vapor through a process called selective catalytic reduction (SCR).

OBDII Code P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit High Voltage
P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit High Voltage

Common Causes of P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Faulty Reductant Heater: The reductant heater itself may be malfunctioning, leading to the high voltage condition.
  2. Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connections to the reductant heater can cause electrical problems.
  3. Defective Control Module: The control module responsible for regulating the reductant heater may be faulty.
  4. Blown Fuse: A blown fuse in the circuit that controls the reductant heater can also trigger this code.
  5. Software Glitch: Occasionally, a software glitch in the vehicle's engine control module (ECM) can cause erroneous high voltage readings.

Symptoms of P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with this code is the illumination of the check engine light on the vehicle's dashboard.
  2. Reduced DEF Consumption: The vehicle may start consuming DEF at a faster rate than usual due to the reductant heater not operating efficiently.
  3. Poor Engine Performance: In some cases, the engine may experience reduced power or rough idling due to the impact on the SCR system.
  4. Failed Emissions Test: If the issue is not resolved, the vehicle may fail emissions tests due to increased nitrogen oxide emissions.

How to Fix P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Diagnose the Issue: Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code and perform a thorough inspection of the reductant heater system.
  2. Test the Reductant Heater: Check the resistance of the reductant heater to determine if it is functioning properly.
  3. Inspect Wiring: Examine the wiring harness for any damage or corrosion, and repair or replace as necessary.
  4. Check Control Module: Test the control module for proper operation and replace if found to be faulty.
  5. Reset the Code: After completing the repairs, clear the DTC and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

The cost of repairing a P20BC code on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. In general, the cost of parts for a reductant heater repair can range from $200 to $500, while labor costs can add another $100 to $300. Overall, the total repair cost for this issue typically falls in the range of $300 to $800. It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary based on factors such as location, shop rates, and the extent of the repairs needed. It's recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic or repair shop for a more accurate cost estimate.

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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 P20BC 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado include the check engine light illuminating, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with the exhaust system.

2. What does the OBDII code P20BC indicate on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a fault in the Reductant Heater 1 Control Circuit, specifically high voltage detected.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes of OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado include a faulty reductant heater 1, issues with the control circuit wiring, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosing OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado involves performing a thorough inspection of the reductant heater 1, checking the control circuit wiring for any damage, and using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve specific fault codes.

5. Can I continue driving my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code P20BC?

It is not recommended to continue driving your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code P20BC as it can lead to reduced engine performance and potential damage to the exhaust system. It is advisable to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

To repair OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, you may need to replace the faulty reductant heater 1, repair any damaged control circuit wiring, or reprogram the PCM if necessary. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.

7. Are there any DIY tips for addressing OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

While diagnosing and repairing OBDII code P20BC may require specialized tools and expertise, you can perform basic visual inspections of the wiring and connectors associated with the reductant heater 1. However, for proper repair, it is best to seek professional assistance.

8. Will OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado affect fuel efficiency?

OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado may affect fuel efficiency due to potential issues with the reductant heater 1 control circuit. It is advisable to address the code promptly to ensure optimal vehicle performance and fuel economy.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost to repair OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, parts required for replacement, and labor costs. It is recommended to obtain a professional diagnosis to determine the exact repair expenses.

10. Can resetting the check engine light clear OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear OBDII code P20BC on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, but the underlying issue causing the fault will still need to be addressed. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause to prevent the code from reappearing.

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