The manifold air temperature (MAT) sensor is a variable resistor, sometimes called a thermistor. The MAT sensor measures the temperature of the air entering the engine. The engine control module (ECM) supplies 5 volts to the MAT signal circuit. When the MAT sensor is cold, the sensor resistance is high. When the air temperature increases, the sensor resistance lowers. With high sensor resistance, the ECM detects a high voltage on the MAT signal circuit. With lower sensor resistance, the ECM detects a lower voltage on the MAT signal circuit. If the ECM detects an excessively high MAT signal voltage, indicating a low temperature, this DTC will set.
The ignition is ON.
The MAT is less than -39°C (-38°F) for more than 2 seconds.
• | The control module stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails. |
• | The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will not illuminate. |
• | The driver information center, if equipped, may display a message. |
• | A current DTC Last Test Failed clears when the diagnostic runs and passes. |
• | Clear the DTC with a scan tool. |
• | When the vehicle is at ambient temperature the MAT sensor and engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor temperatures should be relatively close to each other. Refer to Engine Controls Schematics . |
• | If a short to a separate 5-volt source occurs this DTC may set. If this condition exists, a continuity test to all other ECM 5-volt reference circuits will be necessary. |
• | If an intermittent condition is suspected, refer to Intermittent Conditions . |
The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No |
---|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics | ||||
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls? | -- | Go to Step 2 | |
2 |
Is the manifold air temperature (MAT) sensor temperature less than the specified value? | -38°C (-36°F) | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 3 |
3 |
Does the DTC reset? | Go to Step 4 | Go to Diagnostic Aids | |
Does the MAT sensor temperature measure more than the specified value? | 128°C (262°F) | Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 5 | |
5 |
Does the MAT sensor temperature measure more than the specified value? | 128°C (262°F) | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 6 |
6 | Test the signal circuit of the MAT sensor for an open circuit or high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 9 |
7 | Test the MAT sensor low reference circuit for high resistance or an open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 9 |
8 |
Important: A sensor signal circuit shorted to a separate 5-volt source may cause this DTC to set. Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the MAT sensor. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 10 |
9 |
Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 11 |
10 | Replace the MAT sensor. Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 12 | -- |
11 | Replace the ECM. Refer to Engine Control Module Replacement/Restore Fuel Rate Data . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 12 | -- |
12 |
Does the DTC run and pass? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 2 |
13 | With a scan tool, observe the stored information, Capture Info. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | -- | System OK |