Air Temperature Sensor 1 Average
Indicates the average intake air temperature.
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What it means (plain English)
The intake air temperature sensor measures how hot or cold the air entering the engine is, which affects combustion efficiency.
What the computer is actually seeing
The ECM sees a temperature signal from the air temperature sensor, typically ranging from -40°C to +125°C (-40°F to +257°F). If the signal is outside this range or fails to respond correctly, a fault is logged.
What a healthy reading looks like
Expected operating range for the air temperature should be between -10°C and 50°C (14°F to 122°F) under normal conditions.
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 the wiring and connector at the air temperature sensor for any visible damage or corrosion. Repair as necessary.
- 22. Measure the voltage at the air temperature sensor with the key on and engine off. You should see around 0.5V to 4.5V based on temperature. If out of range, replace the sensor.
- 33. Start the engine and monitor the air temperature sensor data with a scan tool. Ensure it responds dynamically with engine temperature changes. If it’s static, replace the sensor.
- 44. Check for any related codes. If still present after replacing the sensor, inspect the wiring and connectors further back towards the ECM.
Common causes
- Faulty air temperature sensor
- Open or short in wiring harness
- Connector corrosion or damage
- ECM calibration issue
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code active?
It’s generally drivable but can lead to reduced engine performance or fuel efficiency. Fix it as soon as you can.
Will this code come back after I clear it?
If the underlying issue is resolved, it should not return; otherwise, it may come back indicating a persistent problem.
Why does this code sometimes pair with SPN 29?
SPN 29 relates to air temperature sensor 1, and if there's a failure, both will often trigger, indicating problems in the intake air temperature monitoring.
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