1. What Are Aptiv Delphi Connectors?
Aptiv (formerly Delphi Automotive) is one of the world's largest automotive connector manufacturers. Its connector families — GT, Metri-Pack, CTS, and APEX — are specified in millions of vehicles globally, from entry-level economy cars to heavy-duty commercial trucks. Aptiv connectors are particularly common in engine management, powertrain sensors, and body electronics applications.
All trademarks and connector family names are used for identification and compatibility reference only. Veycord is an independent wire harness manufacturer.
2. GT 150 Connector Series
The GT 150 series uses 1.50 mm wide terminals and is one of the most common automotive connector families for sensors and low-to-medium power applications.
| Feature | GT 150 Sealed | GT 150 Unsealed |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal width | 1.50 mm | 1.50 mm |
| Wire range | 0.35 – 1.5 mm² (22-16 AWG) | 0.35 – 1.5 mm² |
| Max current | Up to 15 A | Up to 15 A |
| Temperature | -40°C to +125°C | -40°C to +125°C |
| IP rating | IP67 (with seals) | None (interior only) |
| Pin configurations | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16 | 2 to 20+ |
| Common applications | Engine sensors (MAP, MAF, cam/crank position), fuel injectors, ABS sensors | Interior body electronics, HVAC, instrument panel |
3. GT 280 Connector Series
The GT 280 series uses 2.80 mm wide terminals for higher current applications up to 25 A — commonly found on fuel injectors, ignition coils, solenoids, and small motors.
| Feature | GT 280 |
|---|---|
| Terminal width | 2.80 mm |
| Wire range | 0.5 – 2.5 mm² (20-14 AWG) |
| Max current | Up to 25 A |
| Temperature | -40°C to +125°C |
| Sealed option | Yes (GT 280 sealed variant) |
| Pin configurations | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 |
| Common applications | Fuel injectors, ignition coils, VVT solenoids, EGR valves, cooling fans |
4. Metri-Pack Series: 150, 280, 480, 630
Metri-Pack is Aptiv's metric-pitch sealed connector family, widely used in engine and under-hood applications. The number indicates the terminal width in hundredths of a millimeter — e.g., Metri-Pack 150 = 1.50 mm terminal width.
| Series | Terminal Width | Wire Range | Max Current | Common Pin Counts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 1.50 mm | 0.35 – 1.5 mm² | 14 A | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 |
| 280 | 2.80 mm | 0.5 – 2.5 mm² | 25 A | 2, 3, 4, 6 |
| 480 | 4.80 mm | 1.0 – 4.0 mm² | 40 A | 2, 3 |
| 630 | 6.30 mm | 2.5 – 6.0 mm² | 60 A | 1, 2 |
All Metri-Pack connectors feature individual wire seals and an interface seal, providing IP67 protection. They are specified for engine bay, transmission, chassis, and under-body applications where water, oil, and road salt exposure is expected.
5. Aptiv Sealed vs Unsealed: When to Use Which
| Feature | Sealed | Unsealed |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | IP67 (dust-tight, immersion) | None — relies on enclosure protection |
| Wire seal | Individual silicone seal per cavity | None |
| Interface seal | Yes — between mated halves | No |
| Cost | Moderate — seals add ~20-30% | Lower — simpler assembly |
| Installation zone | Engine bay, chassis, exterior, under-body | Cabin interior, behind dashboard |
| Assembly complexity | Higher — seals must be properly seated | Lower — push-to-seat terminals |
6. Application Selection by Industry
| Application | Recommended Series | Sealed? | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine sensors (MAP, MAF, cam/crank) | GT 150 Sealed, Metri-Pack 150 | Yes | Engine bay exposure to heat, oil, vibration |
| Fuel injectors | GT 280, Metri-Pack 280 | Yes | Higher current, fuel exposure |
| Ignition coils | GT 280, Metri-Pack 280 | Yes | High voltage pulses, heat |
| Cooling fan, fuel pump | Metri-Pack 480, 630 | Yes | High current (20-60 A) |
| Interior HVAC, instrument panel | GT 150 Unsealed, GT 280 Unsealed | No | Protected cabin environment |
| Body control module (BCM) | CTS, Micro-Pack | No (inside module) | High pin count, density |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main Aptiv Delphi connector families?
A: GT series (150, 280), Metri-Pack (150, 280, 480, 630), CTS (modular), and APEX (high-power EV). Each targets different current ranges, pin densities, and environmental requirements. Always confirm the exact part number from the Aptiv catalog or customer drawing.
Q: What is the difference between GT 150 and GT 280?
A: Terminal width — GT 150 = 1.50 mm (up to 15 A), GT 280 = 2.80 mm (up to 25 A). GT 280 is for higher-current applications (injectors, solenoids, small motors). Wire range and pin configurations also differ.
Q: What does 'sealed' mean for Aptiv connectors?
A: Sealed = individual wire seals at each cavity + interface seal between connector halves. Provides IP67 protection for engine bay and exterior use. Unsealed connectors are for interior/protected locations only.
Q: How do I identify an Aptiv connector?
A: Look for the series name and part number molded into the housing. Key features: terminal width, connector shape, lock type, and color. When in doubt, send us a photo for identification and compatible connector options.
Q: Can I mix Aptiv and Tyco AMP terminals?
A: No. Different terminal designs, different crimp specs. Even if a terminal physically fits, electrical contact and retention force may be compromised. Always use the terminal specified for the connector housing.
Need a Wire Harness with Aptiv Connectors?
Send us your connector part numbers, pin assignment, wire types, and application requirements. We build custom harnesses with GT 150, GT 280, Metri-Pack, and other Aptiv connector families.
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