This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.
Definition
This code can be defined as “Intake Air Temperature Circuit High Input”. This information is given by the Intake Air Temperature Sensor which measures air temperature inside the Intake Manifold.
This is important because it provides data for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) which then controls the Air Fuel Ratio and the Ignition Spark Timing.
Meaning
P0113 is the OBD-II generic code that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has recorded the IAT sensor output above expected sensor range.
Code P0113 sets when the voltage signal to the PCM from the Intake Air Temperature Sensor Circuit stays above 4.5 volts while the Coolant Temperature Voltage readings are rising and falling within an appropriate range.
Causes
If the sensor output voltage is more than 4.91 V for 0.5 seconds or more, the ECM determines that there is an open circuit in the IAT sensor circuit, and sets trouble code P0113.
Other potential causes for the code are:
- Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor.
- Dirty air filter.
- Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor.
- Faulty or corroded Intake Air Temperature Sensor wiring or connections.
Symptoms
- The ECM will turn on the Check Engine - Light and go into a failsafe mode.
- Engine may not start as usual.
- Engine may run extra lean.
- Engine may have pre-ignition problems from lean burn conditions.
- Check Engine Light will illuminate.
- In some cases, the engine may be hard starting and/or get poor fuel economy.
- Poor engine performance/hesitation on acceleration.
Diagnosis
- Scan the ECM, documents the codes received, and views the freeze frame data to see the conditions present when the code was set.
- Clears the vehicle of fault codes and retests the vehicle to see if the code comes back.
- Performs a visual inspection to check for shorting harness or connector to sensor.
- Observes the sensor’s live data on the scanner while disconnecting the IAT sensor connector to see if the sensor reading goes to -40°F indicating the sensor is shorted.
Common mistakes
- Intake Air Temperature Sensor is replaced when the real cause is a dirty air filter.
- Intake Air Temperature Sensor is replaced when the real cause is a poor connection or chafed wiring.
- Intake Air Temperature Sensor is replaced when the real problem is in the Mass Air Flow Sensor.
- Not performing a visual inspection of connections and wiring.
- Not following the manufacturer pinpoint test procedure step-by-step and skipping steps.
- Not replacing an IAT sensor only when tests indicate a problem.
- Not connecting a new or known good sensor to the harness and viewing the ECM data to see if the temperature output from the sensor is as expected.
How serious is this?
The P0113 code will cause the engine ECM to go into a failsafe mode. The failsafe mode, depending on the manufacturer failsafe mode strategy, may cause lean condition drivability symptoms.Driving the vehicle for an extended time running too lean can cause internal engine problems with rings and valves.
What repairs can fix the code?
Check the IAT sensor connector with the key on and the engine off. There needs to be a steady 5 volt reference voltage and a very good ground. Find and use the proper engine performance wiring diagram to discern the proper color and position of these wires in the connector.
Related codes
Any P0110 code.
Conclusion
Any P0110 code should be fixed immediately. If ignored for too long, it can cause damage to the engine which may or may not be permanent.
If permanent damage does occur, then your costs will be higher to fix the engine entirely when compared to if you had just paid more attention to your P0113 code.
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