Engine-CodesChevrolet – P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The P2160 code for a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a problem with the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage. Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor: The VSS itself may be defective or damaged, causing low voltage readings, Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the wiring harness connected to the VSS can lead to low voltage signals, ECM Malfunction: A malfunctioning ECM may not be able to properly interpret the speed sensor data, leading to low voltage readings. 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
P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor: The VSS itself may be defective or damaged, causing low voltage readings, Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the wiring harness connected to the VSS can lead to low voltage signals, ECM Malfunction: A malfunctioning ECM may not be able to properly interpret the speed sensor data, leading to low voltage readings.
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.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 09, 2024
💬 Need more help? Ask Auto Expert for instant answers — it's free!
AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play

Code P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The P2160 code for a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a problem with the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage. The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is a crucial component that monitors the speed of the vehicle and sends this information to the engine control module (ECM). The ECM uses this data to make adjustments to various systems such as fuel injection, transmission shifting, and ABS braking.

OBDII Code P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage
P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Common Causes of P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor: The VSS itself may be defective or damaged, causing low voltage readings.
  2. Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the wiring harness connected to the VSS can lead to low voltage signals.
  3. ECM Malfunction: A malfunctioning ECM may not be able to properly interpret the speed sensor data, leading to low voltage readings.
  4. Sensor Alignment: Improper alignment or installation of the VSS can also cause low voltage issues.
  5. Electrical Problems: Issues with the vehicle's electrical system, such as a weak battery or alternator, can impact the VSS circuit.

Symptoms of P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Check Engine Light: The most obvious symptom of the P2160 code is the illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard.
  2. Inaccurate Speedometer: The speedometer may fluctuate or show incorrect speed readings due to the VSS issue.
  3. Rough Shifting: The transmission may experience rough or delayed shifting as a result of incorrect speed data.
  4. Poor Fuel Efficiency: The vehicle may exhibit decreased fuel efficiency due to inaccurate fuel injection adjustments.
  5. Stalling: In severe cases, the vehicle may stall or have difficulty starting due to incorrect speed sensor readings.

How to Fix P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

  1. Diagnose the Issue: Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the trouble code and verify the low voltage reading from the VSS.
  2. Inspect Wiring: Check the wiring harness for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace as needed.
  3. Test Vehicle Speed Sensor: Test the VSS using a multimeter to check for proper voltage output. Replace the sensor if it is faulty.
  4. Reset ECM: Clear the trouble code and reset the ECM to see if the issue persists after repairs have been made.
  5. Road Test: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the VSS is now functioning correctly and that the symptoms have been resolved.

Cost to Fix P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

The cost of repairing a Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage issue can vary depending on the cause of the problem and the specific components that need to be replaced. In general, the cost of a new VSS can range from $50 to $150, depending on the vehicle make and model. Labor costs for this type of repair can range from $100 to $300, depending on the shop's hourly rates and the complexity of the repair.

Need more information about the P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2160 on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, inoperative cruise control, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What does the OBDII code P2160 "Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage" indicate on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- This code indicates that the vehicle speed sensor 2 is sending a signal to the engine control module (ECM) with a voltage lower than expected.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2160 on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The common causes of this code include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the speed sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning ECM.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P2160 on my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Diagnosing this code involves checking the vehicle speed sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, testing the sensor's output voltage, and scanning the ECM for related fault codes.

5. Can I continue driving my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code P2160?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can affect the proper operation of the vehicle's speed-related systems.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P2160 on my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Repairing this code typically involves replacing the faulty vehicle speed sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the code with a diagnostic tool.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P2160 on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is recommended to address the root cause to prevent the issue from reoccurring.

8. Are there any tips for preventing OBDII code P2160 on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing sensors as needed, inspecting wiring for damage, and addressing any related issues promptly, can help prevent this code.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast without extensive automotive experience fix OBDII code P2160 on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, replacing a vehicle speed sensor or repairing wiring may be manageable for a DIY enthusiast.

10. How much can I expect to pay to repair OBDII code P2160 on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado at a professional mechanic?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the specific issue, but replacing a vehicle speed sensor or repairing wiring typically ranges from $100 to $300 at a professional mechanic.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado OBDII Code

Code P2160 2018 Chevrolet Silverado comments

No comments found for this page.