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2006 GMC Yukon P0172 and P0175 Codes After Battery Replacement and E15 Fuel Use

Model: 2006 GMC Yukon Fault Code: P0172 Posted: 2018-08-17 10:28

After replacing the battery on my 2006 GMC Yukon, the previously stored OBD-II codes P0172 (Rich Condition Bank 1) and P0175 (Rich Condition Bank 2) cleared. However, new codes have appeared: P015B and P015D. P015B indicates an oxygen sensor delayed response in lean-to-rich mode for Bank 1 Sensor 1, while P015D shows a similar issue on Bank 2 Sensor 1. I recently filled the tank with E15 fuel (66.7% alcohol), which dropped to 45% during driving and returned to 71.6% upon arrival home. This fluctuation may have triggered the sensor errors. I am now also seeing pending codes including P0101 (Mass Airflow Sensor Range/Performance) alongside active codes P015B, P015D, P0172, and P0175. The recurring nature of these codes suggests a potential underlying issue rather than a simple fuel percentage error. I suspect the vehicle's engine control module (ECM) may be misinterpreting alcohol content due to inconsistent readings or outdated calibration. Some users recommend re-flashing the ECM to correct the virtual flex sensor algorithm, which is known to malfunction under variable ethanol levels—especially in older GM models like this one. This issue appears more common in vehicles with pre-2010 model years and may require a professional diagnostic tool for accurate resolution. I have also observed that my I/M Ready Test shows a red 'X' for EVAP, despite all other onboard tests being green. This inconsistency has prompted me to consider purchasing a new OBD-II scanner (such as a Snap-on or Tech2) to ensure reliable diagnostics and proper fuel trim calibration.

Related fault codes
P0172P0175
Comments (14)
Anonymous 2018-08-17 12:12

I do not see these codes in my vehicle's diagnostic system. This may indicate a model-specific issue or a difference in software version between vehicles.

Anonymous 2018-08-19 00:04

P015B and P015D both refer to oxygen sensor delayed response in lean-to-rich conditions, specifically for Bank 1 Sensor 1 and Bank 2 Sensor 1. These codes suggest the ECM is not responding properly to air-fuel ratio changes.

Anonymous 2018-08-19 06:55

The fuel alcohol percentage must be manually reset when using non-E85 fuels like E15, especially in older GM vehicles. If you don’t use E85, failing to reset the alcohol % setting can cause misfires and incorrect fuel trim calculations.

Anonymous 2018-08-19 09:49

I do not have E85 in my tank. I will need to purchase a new OBD-II scanner to properly reset the alcohol percentage setting in the vehicle's system.

Anonymous 2018-08-23 09:58

Currently experiencing P0101, P015B, and P015D as active codes. Additionally, P0172 and P0175 are pending. This pattern suggests a root cause issue rather than isolated sensor failure.

Anonymous 2018-08-23 10:19

A reflash of the ECM is recommended to correct the virtual flex fuel sensor algorithm. While clearing codes may temporarily hide issues, without addressing the underlying software logic, the system will eventually revert to faulty calculations—leading to recurring problems.

Anonymous 2018-08-23 18:01

No recall has been issued for 2012 models; however, earlier model years (pre-2011) had known issues related to oxygen sensor response and fuel trim calibration. This may explain the recurring codes in older GM trucks.

Anonymous 2018-08-23 21:39

I noticed this thread switched vehicles mid-discussion—this caused confusion initially, but it's a common issue when users transition between models. While this vehicle is a 2012 model, the PIP4792D service bulletin covers up to 2011; future updates may introduce PIP4792E to cover more years. If negative trim values remain steady during closed-loop operation, it suggests the virtual flex sensor algorithm is stuck and requires a reflash for accurate calculations. This issue should be addressed by a qualified technician using proper diagnostic equipment.

Anonymous 2018-08-24 00:25

My I/M Ready Test now shows a red 'X' under EVAP, while all other tests are green. This inconsistency is puzzling. I am planning to order a new OBD-II scanner—such as the Snap-on model—to ensure accurate diagnostics and fuel trim readings.

Anonymous 2018-08-26 08:56

A used Snap-on OBD-II scanner is available on eBay, but be cautious of counterfeit or aftermarket 'Tech2' devices from China—they often lack accuracy and reliability.

Anonymous 2018-08-26 08:59

GM began using MDI (Multi-Device Interface) software after 2010 for vehicle diagnostics. This may affect how fuel trim and sensor data are interpreted in later model years.

Anonymous 2018-08-27 06:48

The transition to MDI likely started around 2008. After that, users need a subscription with AC Delco Online to access full diagnostics. While some knock-off devices exist, they do not match the performance of OEM tools like Snap-on.

Anonymous 2018-08-30 13:11

I filled my tank with 25 gallons of E15. The alcohol percentage was initially 75.3% before filling; it fluctuated between 69% and 80% during the drive, settling at 78.4%. Before the appearance of P0172 and P0175, I had zero DTCs. Key readings: - Short Term Fuel Trim (Bank 1): -7.0%, Long Term: -25.0% - Short Term Fuel Trim (Bank 2): -7.0%, Long Term: -24.2% - Alcohol Fuel Percentage: 78.4% - Oxygen Sensor Output Voltage (B1S1): 0.065V, B2S1: 0.070V - Bank 2 Sensor 2 Trim: 99.2% (indicating rich condition) - Catalyst Temperature: 1034°F for both banks - Engine Coolant Temp: 195°F - Intake Air Temp: 116°F - Commanded Equivalence Ratio: 0.999 These values suggest a persistent lean-to-rich fuel trim imbalance, likely triggered by incorrect alcohol percentage input or faulty sensor response.

Anonymous 2018-09-18 21:32

I had the dealer reset the alcohol percentage and fuel trims. While this resolves the immediate warning light, it does not address the root cause of the underlying fuel control issue.