Exhaust Gas Temperature Circuit Low
The exhaust gas temperature reading is lower than expected.
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What it means (plain English)
The exhaust gas temperature sensor is reporting a temperature that is below what the engine control unit expects, indicating a potential issue with the sensor or wiring.
What the computer is actually seeing
The ECM sees the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensor output voltage below a threshold, typically around 0.5 volts when it should be higher, especially during operation when the exhaust is hot.
What a healthy reading looks like
Exhaust gas temperature should generally be between 500°F to 1,500°F (260°C to 800°C) in operation; voltage from the sensor should be above 0.5 volts under load.
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.
- 1Check the exhaust gas temperature sensor wiring for damage or corrosion. Ensure all connectors are secure and free of debris.
- 2Measure the voltage at the exhaust gas temperature sensor connector while the engine is running. You should see a voltage above 0.5 volts. If not, check for shorts to ground or power.
- 3Inspect the exhaust gas temperature sensor itself for signs of failure. Replace the sensor if it does not respond correctly or the readings are inaccurate.
- 4Check for exhaust leaks upstream of the sensor that could affect readings; fix as necessary.
Common causes
- Faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor
- Wiring short or open circuit
- Bad connector or corroded terminals
- Exhaust leaks affecting sensor readings
Typical repair cost
$$ - $$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
Yes, it's drivable, but it may affect emissions and engine performance. Address it soon.
Will this code come back after clearing?
If the underlying issue isn't fixed, the code will likely return after some driving.
Why does this code pair with other SPNs?
Codes for exhaust gas temperature issues often appear together due to common wiring or sensor problems.
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