Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
The DURAMAX-P0545 (Duramax) diesel fault code means: Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, with caution
- DIY difficulty
- intermediate
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What Are the Symptoms of DURAMAX-P0545?
- Check Engine Light on
- Possible reduced power or rough running
- Possible hard starting
What Causes DURAMAX-P0545? (Most Likely First)
- Signal wire shorted to ground High
- Failed sensor High
- Corroded or damaged connector Moderate
- Engine computer input fault Low
Can I Still Drive with DURAMAX-P0545?
Yes, with caution. DURAMAX-P0545 is rated moderate severity. Keep trips short and get it diagnosed soon rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing DURAMAX-P0545 on specific platforms — tap a platform for the fix and the exact part:
2001-2016 GM 2500HD/3500HD 6.6L Duramax Moderate DIY
Pre-turbo EGT sensor low voltage. Sensor sits in the exhaust manifold or turbo inlet and bakes. Unplug and measure - should be 300+ ohms cold. Replace with OEM; aftermarket EGTs on Duramax often read wrong and cause regen issues.
Labor: 0.8 hrFrequently Asked Questions
What does P0545 mean on a Duramax?
P0545 means Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1). The exhaust gas temperature sensor signal is below its normal range, which usually points to a short to ground or a failed sensor.
Is P0545 a Duramax-specific code?
No. P0545 is a generic OBD-II code defined by SAE J2012, so it means the same thing on any vehicle that sets it. The exact conditions GM uses to set it on its diesels are in GM service information.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose DURAMAX-P0545?
Inspect the exhaust gas temperature sensor connector and harness.
Check the exhaust gas temperature sensor reference voltage, ground and signal against the service specification.
Check for other codes that share the same sensor reference voltage or ground.
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines P0545 as a generic OBD-II code)
P0545 on Other Platforms
The same code ID appears across other engines, vehicles, and equipment. Diagnostic flow varies by platform — see the matching breakdown:
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