P0114 Code – What Does It Mean & How To Fix It

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.

Causes

Common causes for this code include:

• Short to ground, open circuit, or short to power on IAT sensor
• Open or short in wiring from ECM to IAT sensor
• Short to the voltage on the IAT sensor signal wire

Symptoms

The symptoms of a P0114 code are:

• The Check Engine Light will illuminate
• Intermittent hard starting
• On acceleration, the exhaust emits black smoke from the tailpipe.
• Pre-ignition and running lean are possible
• Depending on the sensor readings, gasoline mileage can range from excellent to awful.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a P0114 DTC code, an automotive technician would:

1. Use a scan tool to clear all codes
2. Monitor the IAT voltage (5V) during run conditions
3. Test the signal wire for short to power or ground using an approved tester 
4. Use an oscilloscope to monitor IAT voltage at intake manifold 
5. If there is no erratic IAT reading, test source of VREF on ECM relay circuit for proper resistor value
6. If any of these tests reveal problems with IAT sensor signal, the problem will be the faulty IAT sensor 
7. If all tests are operating properly, check wiring harness between ECM and IAT sensor for intermittent open/short
8. If the problem is due to a faulty sensor, replace IAT sensor and retest vehicle; then monitor K-line with a scan tool to see if the code reappears.
9. If the problem is intermittent, test the system with a spare ECM to verify that there are no other problems before replacing parts.

Common mistakes

The following are common mistakes when diagnosing the trouble code P0114:

• Replacing IAT Sensor instead of testing it.
• Assuming the ECM or wiring harness is faulty when all tests point to a bad IAT Sensor.

How serious is this?

A car with a P0114 trouble code will likely need a new IAT sensor.

The severity of a P0114 code depends on the vehicle, how it is used, and environmental conditions. As with all codes, if you have two or more codes being thrown together that have the same meaning, the priority goes to the first one(s) listed regardless of what trouble code reader says. In other words: If you have P0114 and P0336 as OBD-II trouble codes in your car, they both indicate Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor Circuit Problem - however, since there is no order of priority for OBD-II Codes - P0336 takes precedence over P0114 regardless of which troubleshooting guide tells you otherwise.

What repairs can fix the code?

The following are solutions that may fix this problem:

• Replacing a Faulty IAT Sensor
• Replacing a Faulty ECM or Wiring Harness

Related codes

A P0114is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:

• P0115 – Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Problem
• P0116 – Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Circuit Low Input
• P0117 – Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Circuit High input
• P0118 – Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Problem

How much does it cost to fix the P0148 code?

The repair cost of a P0114 code is relative to the cost of a new IAT sensor. On average, this repair costs $50 - $200 depending on your car's make and model. A shop would likely charge $100-$150 for labor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the P0114 code is a DTC that is most likely caused by a faulty IAT Sensor. It can be diagnosed and repaired with relative ease. While this code is usually not serious, it is still advisable to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as they arise so your car runs smoothly for a long time.