Active Exhaust Temperature Sensor Fault
The active exhaust temperature sensor is reporting an out-of-range value.
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What it means (plain English)
The computer is getting a temperature reading from the exhaust sensor that’s way too high or too low compared to what it expects, which can mess with the engine's performance and emissions.
What the computer is actually seeing
The ECM reads the active exhaust temperature sensor voltage, expecting a range between 0.5V to 4.5V based on exhaust temperatures of about 100°F to 1800°F. If it sees values outside of this range, it throws the SPN 6130 fault.
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal operation should show voltage between 0.5V (around 100°F) and 4.5V (up to 1800°F). Values above 4.5V or below 0.5V indicate a fault.
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 sensor and connector for physical damage or corrosion.
- 2Verify the wiring for shorts or open circuits using a multimeter (look for around 0.5V to 4.5V).
- 3Monitor sensor voltage while engine warms up; it should change with exhaust temperature.
- 4Replace the active exhaust temperature sensor if voltage is out of range, but only after confirming wiring integrity.
Common causes
- Faulty active exhaust temperature sensor
- Damaged wiring or connector to the sensor
- Exhaust gas leak affecting temperature readings
- Faulty ECM programming or software issue
Typical repair cost
$$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
It’s moderate severity; you can drive, but resolve it soon to avoid emissions issues.
Will the code come back after clearing it?
If the sensor or wiring is faulty, yes, it will come back.
Why do I also see SPN 6131 with this code?
SPN 6131 often indicates another related fault in the same temperature reading circuit.
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