Intake Manifold Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
The intake manifold temperature sensor is reporting a lower than expected temperature.
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What it means (plain English)
The intake manifold temperature sensor measures how hot the air is coming into the engine. If it's showing a temperature that’s too low, it might be indicating an issue with the sensor or its wiring.
What the computer is actually seeing
The Engine Control Module (ECM) is looking for a temperature reading within a specific range (generally between 20°C to 100°C). If the readings fall below the minimum threshold, it triggers a fault code.
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal intake manifold temperature should be within 20°C to 100°C during operation. Readings below 10°C may trigger this code.
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.
- 1Inspect the intake manifold temperature sensor wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.
- 2Verify the intake manifold temperature sensor's resistance using a multimeter. It should typically show resistance values that correspond to the temperature range expected.
- 3Check for coolant leaks in the intake area that might be cooling the air unnecessarily.
- 4Clear the code and conduct a test drive to see if the code returns.
Common causes
- Faulty intake manifold temperature sensor
- Wiring or connector issues in the sensor circuit
- Coolant leaks affecting the intake temperature
- ECM software issues
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
It's moderate severity. While you can drive, you should fix it soon to prevent performance issues.
Will this fault code come back after clearing it?
It may return if the underlying issue isn't fixed, like a bad sensor or wiring problem.
Why do I see this code alongside SPN 2159?
Both are related to intake or air temperature measurements and may indicate issues with the sensor or wiring.
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