Intake Air Temperature Sensor
Problem with the intake air temperature sensor reading.
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What it means (plain English)
The intake air temperature sensor measures how hot the air entering the engine is. If it reads too high or too low, the engine control module (ECM) can’t adjust the air-fuel mixture correctly, leading to power loss or bad fuel economy.
What the computer is actually seeing
The ECM expects the intake air temperature to be between 25°F (-4°C) and 150°F (65°C) during operation. A reading outside this range triggers a fault code.
What a healthy reading looks like
Should read between 25°F (-4°C) and 150°F (65°C). An open or short circuit will result in 0V or very high voltage (5V).
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. Inspect the wiring and connectors of the intake air temperature sensor. Check for shorts, opens, or corrosion.
- 22. Measure the voltage at the sensor connector with the key on, engine off. Expected voltage: around 5V. If voltage is absent or above 5V, investigate the wiring harness.
- 33. Disconnect the sensor and check its resistance. Expected resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specifications, usually between 2kΩ to 10kΩ based on temperature.
- 44. Reconnect the sensor and check for proper operation by monitoring the intake air temperature with a scan tool while running the engine. Should match ambient temperature. If readings are erratic or incorrect, replace the sensor.
Common causes
- Faulty intake air temperature sensor
- Wiring issues (shorts or opens)
- Corrosion in connectors
- Faulty engine control module (ECM)
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
It's moderate; you might experience reduced power and poor fuel economy, but it’s drivable. Fix it soon.
Will the code come back after I fix it?
If the sensor and wiring are corrected, the code shouldn't return. Clear the code after repairs.
Why does this code pair with other codes?
These often relate to air intake issues; electrical faults can affect multiple sensors.
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