Engine Exhaust Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
Engine Exhaust Temperature Sensor 1 is reporting a low voltage.
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What it means (plain English)
The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses the exhaust temp sensor to monitor the temperature of the exhaust gases. If the voltage from this sensor drops below a threshold (typically below 0.2 volts), it triggers the fault code indicating a possible open circuit or a faulty sensor.
What the computer is actually seeing
The ECM monitors the data from the exhaust temperature sensor. It expects the voltage to be in a range of about 0.5 to 4.5 volts based on the temperature. A fall below 0.2 volts is considered a fault.
What a healthy reading looks like
Expected voltage from the sensor should be between 0.5 and 4.5 volts, correlating to temperature ranges typically between 100°F to 1800°F (38°C to 982°C).
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 11. Visually inspect the wiring and connectors of the Exhaust Temperature Sensor 1. Look for frays, shorts, or corrosion. If damaged, repair or replace as necessary. Decision: Is wiring and connector intact? → If yes, proceed to step 2. If no, fix and retest.
Common causes
- Faulty Exhaust Temperature Sensor 1
- Open or shorted wiring to the sensor
- Bad connector or corroded pins
- Faulty ECM
- Exhaust leaks affecting sensor readings
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with SPN 3013 active?
Yes, but it is recommended to address this issue soon to avoid potential overheating and damage.
Will this code come back after clearing it?
If the underlying issue is not fixed, the code is likely to return.
Does this fault pair with other codes?
Yes, codes related to other exhaust temperature sensors often accompany this one due to similar circuit checks.
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