How to replace intake manifold temperature sensor
Auto repair

How to replace intake manifold temperature sensor

09.11.2022 /

Symptoms of a manifold temperature sensor failure include rough idle and rough engine operation, which can result in a failed emissions test.

The manifold temperature sensor is an electronic sensor that measures the air temperature in the vehicle's intake manifold. This information is used by the vehicle's ECU in conjunction with Mass Air Flow (MAF) and Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) data to achieve the most efficient combustion in a fuel-injected engine. A bad or defective manifold temperature sensor will cause problems such as rough idle and rough engine operation and may result in an emissions test failure.

Part 1 of 1: Replacing the Manifold Temperature Sensor

Necessary materials

  • Gloves
  • needle nose pliers
  • open end wrench
  • Replacing the manifold temperature sensor
  • thread tape

Step 1: Locate the manifold temperature sensor and disconnect the electrical connector.. To find the manifold temperature sensor, narrow your search to the surface of the intake manifold. You are looking for an electrical connector that goes to a screw type sensor.

  • Functions: On most vehicles, it is located on the top side of the intake manifold and is very easily accessible.

Step 2: Disconnect the electrical connector. There will be a section of the wiring harness going to the electrical connector. This connector is connected to the sensor. You will need to press down on the tab on one side of the connector while firmly pulling the connector away from the sensor.

Once it is disabled, move it to the side.

Step 3: Remove the failed manifold temperature sensor from the intake manifold.. Use an open end wrench to loosen your car's manifold temperature sensor.

Once it is loose enough, finish unscrewing it by hand.

Step 4: Prepare the new sensor for installation. Use adhesive tape to wrap the threads of the new sensor counterclockwise with no more than 2 layers of tape.

  • Functions: Wrap in this direction so that when the sensor is screwed in clockwise, the edge of the tape does not snag or come off. If you install it in reverse order and notice that the tape is bunched up, simply remove it and start over with a new tape.

Step 5: Install a new temperature sensor. Insert the new sensor and hand-tighten the sensor first to avoid stripping the threads.

Once the sensor is hand-tight, tighten it all the way with a short handle wrench.

  • A warning: Most intake manifolds are made of aluminum or plastic so it is very important to be careful not to overtighten the sensor.

Step 6: Connect the electrical connector to the new manifold temperature sensor.. Take the female end of the electrical connector that was disconnected in step 2 and slide it onto the male end of the sensor. Press firmly until you hear the connector click.

If you prefer to entrust this work to a professional, AvtoTachki has mobile technicians who can come to your home or office to replace the collector temperature sensor at a convenient time for you.

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