Engine Temperature Sensor 2 - Faulty Signal
The engine temperature sensor 2 is reporting a problematic signal to the engine control module.
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What it means (plain English)
Engine temperature sensor 2 helps the computer figure out how hot the engine is. If it sends weird data, the computer can't manage engine performance right.
What the computer is actually seeing
The Engine Control Module (ECM) is expecting a voltage signal between 0.5V (cold) to 4.5V (hot). If the reading is outside of this range, it triggers the fault code SPN 5163.
What a healthy reading looks like
Voltage should be between 0.5V to 4.5V, with typically around 2.5V at normal operating temperature.
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. Check wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Repair as needed. If connections are solid, proceed to step 2.
- 22. Measure the voltage at the engine temperature sensor 2 connector. It should read between 0.5V and 4.5V. If it's outside this range, go to step 3. If it’s within range, sensor or ECU may be faulty.
- 33. If voltage is faulty, replace the engine temperature sensor 2 and retest. If the issue persists, test the ECM for faults.
Common causes
- Wiring issues such as frayed or broken wires
- Bad ECU connection or corrosion
- Faulty engine temperature sensor 2
- Coolant leaks causing erroneous readings
Typical repair cost
$$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Can I still drive the vehicle with this code?
Yes, but drivability may be affected, and engine performance could be compromised.
Will this code come back after clearing it?
If the underlying issue isn't resolved, yes, it will likely reappear.
Why does this code sometimes pair with SPN 157?
SPN 157 indicates possible issues with the primary engine temperature sensor, often leading to multiple temperature-related codes.
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