Circuit Description
The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor is a thermistor. A thermistor is a resistor whose value varies with temperature. The IAT sensor's resistance is high if the air temperature is cold, and the IAT sensor's resistance is low if the air temperature is warm. The IAT sensor is wired in series with a fixed resistor in the powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM applies 5 volts to the IAT sensor. The PCM monitors the voltage across the IAT sensor and converts the voltage into a temperature reading. The PCM will receive a high voltage input if the air temperature is cold. The PCM will receive a low voltage input if the air temperature is warm.
Conditions for Running the DTC
The ignition is ON.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
| • | The IAT sensor signal voltage indicates that the intake air temperature is above 119°C (246°F). |
| • | The above condition is present for at least 0.5 seconds. |
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The PCM illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). |
| • | The PCM records the operating conditions at the time that the diagnostic fails. This information is stored in the Freeze Frame buffer. |
| • | The PCM enters the Fail-Safe mode and assumes the intake air temperature is 20°C (68°F) and stops the idle speed feedback control. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | The MIL turns OFF after 3 consecutive trips during which the diagnostic runs, and a fault is not detected. |
| • | A History DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles without a fault. |
| • | Use the Clear DTC Information function of the scan tool, or disconnect the PCM battery feed in order to clear the DTC. |
Diagnostic Aids
Check for a faulty electrical connection to the PCM.
Use the Temperature vs Resistance table in order to check the IAT sensor at various temperature levels, and evaluate the possibility of a shifted sensor. A shifted sensor could result in a driveability complaint. Refer to Temperature Versus Resistance .
An intermittent malfunction may be caused by a fault in the IAT sensor electrical circuit. Inspect the wiring harness and the components for any of the following conditions:
| • | Backed out terminals. |
| • | Incorrect mating of terminals. |
| • | Broken electrical connector locks. |
| • | Incorrectly formed terminals or damaged terminals. |
| • | Faulty terminal-to-wire connections. |
| • | Physical damage to the wiring harness. |
| • | A broken wire inside the insulation. |
| • | Corrosion of electrical connections, of splices, or of terminals. |
If DTC P0112 cannot be duplicated, the Freeze Frame data can be useful in determining the vehicle operating conditions when the DTC first set.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers in the diagnostic table.
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The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete basic checks and to store the freeze frame data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data that was taken when the fault occurred. The information is stored in the scan tool for later reference.
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This step checks the current IAT sensor reading.
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This step determines if the fault is present.
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This step determines if the fault is caused by a shorted signal return circuit or by a malfunctioning IAT sensor.
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check? | -- | |||
Is the IAT display at or greater than the specified value? | 119°C (246°F) | |||
Is a DTC P0112 set? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Aids | ||
Is the IAT display less than or equal to the specified value? | -40°C (-40°F) | |||
5 |
Is the IAT sensor signal circuit shorted to ground? | -- | ||
6 |
Was a repair necessary? | -- | ||
7 | Replace the IAT sensor. Refer to Intake Air Temperature Sensor Replacement . Is the action complete? | -- | ||
8 | Repair the IAT sensor input circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
9 |
Important: The replacement PCM must be programmed. Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement . Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
10 |
Are any DTCs displayed on the scan tool? | -- | Go to the applicable DTC table | System OK |
