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lukassmith25

Silverado diesel PTC heater problem

I'm having trouble with my 2021 Chevrolet Silverado diesel, which has 239100 km on it. I think the PTC heater is faulty. It starts poorly when cold, has an error code for the heater circuit, and burns more fuel. Considering these things, especially the error code, it seems like the electric auxiliary heater is bad. Has anyone else had this?

Summary of the thread

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado diesel experienced poor cold starts, an error code for the heater circuit, and increased fuel consumption, indicating a potential issue with the PTC heater. The problem was confirmed by a professional diagnosis, revealing a defective electric auxiliary heater. Replacing the PTC heater resolved the issues, improving cold starts and fuel efficiency.

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4 comment(s)

rudolf_fischer6

Sounds familiar! I had a similar problem with my older BMW 3 Series – different brand, same headache. Cold starts were rough, and the fuel consumption went up noticeably, especially in winter. It wasn't a PTC heater issue (it was the glow plugs), but the symptoms sound really similar. Did you check the heating element's resistance? An open circuit would definitely throw a code and mess with the engine's cold start strategy.

lukassmith25 (community.author)

Thanks! When you say check the heating element's resistance, do you mean the auxiliary heater element itself? If so, where would I find the connector to test this resistance? I want to be sure I'm testing the right thing.

rudolf_fischer6

Yes, I meant the auxiliary heater element itself. On my BMW, it was hard to get to, near the blower motor. Since it's a PTC heater, it should be between the main heater core and the ventilation system. Honestly, with the error code and symptoms, it might be easier to take it to a shop. My problem cost me around 250€ to diagnose and fix (glow plugs and labor), so it might be worth getting a professional opinion before you start tearing things apart.

lukassmith25 (community.author)

Understood. I took the Silverado to a shop, as you suggested. The electric auxiliary heater was defective, as suspected. The repair cost, including parts and labor, was 350€. Replacing the PTC heater fixed everything. Thanks again!

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CHEVROLET

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SILVERADO