P0182 Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input
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P0182 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Fuel temperature sensor A circuit low input
What does trouble code P0182 mean?
Code P0182 in the OBD-II system indicates that the fuel temperature sensor circuit "A" voltage has decreased during a self test.
The fuel temperature sensor detects the temperature in the tank and transmits this information to the engine control module (ECM) by varying the voltage. It uses a thermistor that changes its resistance depending on the temperature.
This DTC is applicable to various OBD-II equipped vehicles (Nissan, Ford, Fiat, Chevrolet, Toyota, Dodge, etc.). It indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a voltage signal from the fuel temperature sensor that is not as expected. The fuel composition sensor usually also includes a fuel temperature detection function. Incorrect voltage may cause the P0182 code to set and activate the MIL.
This sensor is important for accurately analyzing fuel composition and temperature, which affects engine performance. Temperature and ethanol content can vary and the sensor helps the ECM regulate how the fuel burns.
Causes of DTC P0182
The engine control module (ECM) detects the fuel temperature sensor circuit voltage is below normal during startup or operation.
Possible reasons include:
- Faulty fuel temperature sensor.
- Open or shorted fuel temperature sensor wires.
- Poor electrical connection in the sensor circuit.
- Intermittent short circuit in wiring or connections to the ECM.
- Fuel tank or fuel rail temperature sensor out of range due to dirty connector.
- The engine control unit or the sensor itself is faulty.
- Exhaust gas leaks near the fuel line, which can cause overheating and fuel temperature beyond acceptable limits.
- Malfunction of other sensors, such as the intake air temperature sensor, ambient temperature sensor or fuel composition sensor.
- PCM (engine control module) wiring or connectors are in poor condition or there is a PCM programming error.
The main symptoms of error P0182
Flex-fuel vehicles carefully use fuel temperature for fuel delivery strategy, making the P0182 code serious. Symptoms may include:
- Possible activation of the MIL (Check Engine) indicator.
- Some vehicles may not show obvious symptoms.
- It is possible that other codes related to the fuel composition may appear.
If the fuel temperature is high, the car may not start, lose power and stall. It is also important to note that too much additives in the fuel can cause them to evaporate at low temperatures, resulting in incorrect sensor readings. When the P0182 code is triggered, the ECM records it and turns on the Check Engine light.
How a Mechanic Diagnoses Code P0182
Follow these steps to diagnose code P0182:
- Scan the codes and save the freeze frame data, then reset the codes to see if they come back.
- Visually inspect the sensor wiring and connections, looking for breaks or loose connections.
- Disconnect the connection to the sensor and check that the test is within specifications.
- To compare the fuel temperature with the sensor input, use a fuel sample.
- Check the diesel fuel heater to ensure it is operating and heating the fuel without overheating.
- Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle to see if your problem may already be known and have a known solution.
- Check the reference voltage and ground at the fuel temperature sensor connector using a DVOM.
- Use an oscilloscope to monitor real-time data by comparing actual fuel temperature with data from the fuel temperature sensor.
- Check the resistance of the fuel temperature sensor according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
These steps will help you diagnose and resolve the P0182 code problem.
How serious is trouble code P0182?
Leaking exhaust gases that heat fuel lines pose a fire hazard.
Increased fuel temperature due to overheating of the fuel rail can lead to misfire, hesitation and engine stalling.
Code P0182 may cause the ECM to change fuel pressure or fuel injection on some vehicles.
What repairs can fix P0182?
- Check the fuel temperature sensor and, if it is not within specifications, replace it.
- Consider repairing or replacing faulty sensor connectors or wiring.
- Replace the ECM if it is faulty.
- Repair exhaust gas leak in the fuel line.
- Consider replacing the diesel fuel heater assembly with temperature sensor.
P0182 – information for specific car brands
- P0182 FORD Engine Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit A Circuit Low Input
- P0182 HONDAP0182 INFINITI Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Input Low Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Input Low
- P0182 KIA Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
- P0182 MAZDA Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
- P0182 MERCEDES-BENZ Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
- P0182 MITSUBISHI Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
- P0182 NISSAN Fuel Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
- P0182 SUBARU Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input
- P0182 VOLKSWAGEN Fuel Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit Low Input
