P0544 EGT Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1

OBD-II Trouble Code - P0544 - Data Sheet

P0544 - Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor Circuit (Malfunction) Bank 1 Sensor 1

Code P0544 means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a problem with the exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit.

What does trouble code P0544 mean?

This is a generic transmission code which means it covers all makes / models from 1996 onwards. However, specific troubleshooting steps may differ from vehicle to vehicle.

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0544 refers to the condition of the EGT (exhaust gas temperature) sensor located in the "upper" pipe before the catalytic converter. Its sole purpose in life is to protect the transducer from damage due to excessive heat.

Code P0544 denotes a common malfunction detected in the exhaust gas recirculation temperature sensor circuit at block 1, sensor # 1. This DTC P0544 applies to block # 1 (which is the side of the engine where cylinder # 1 is located). Associated codes: P0545 (signal low) and P0546 (signal high).

The EGT sensor is found on most recent models of gasoline or diesel engines. It is nothing more than a temperature-sensitive resistor that converts the temperature of the exhaust gases into a voltage signal for the computer. It receives a 5V signal from the computer over one wire and the other wire is grounded.

The higher the exhaust gas temperature, the lower the ground resistance, resulting in a higher voltage - conversely, the lower the temperature, the greater the resistance, resulting in a lower voltage. If the engine detects low voltage, the computer will change the engine timing or fuel ratio to keep the temperature within the acceptable range inside the converter.

In diesel, EGT is used to determine the PDF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration time based on the temperature rise.

If, when removing the catalytic converter, a pipe was installed without a catalytic converter, then, as a rule, the EGT is not provided, or, if it is, it will not work correctly without back pressure. This will install the code.

Symptoms

The check engine light will come on and the computer will set a code P0544. No other symptoms will be easy to recognize.

Possible Causes of Code P0544

Reasons for this DTC may include:

• Check for loose or corroded connectors or terminals, which is often the case
• Broken wires or lack of insulation can cause a short circuit directly to ground.
• The sensor may be out of order
• Catback exhaust system without EGT installation.
• It is possible, though unlikely, that the computer is out of order.
• Wiring, connectors, or terminals that are loose, broken, corroded, or even burned
• Short circuit of the sensor inside or to ground
• Defective sensor
• Use an aftermarket exhaust system, usually off-road systems that cause pressure problems
• Major leak upstream of the sensor in the exhaust system.

Repair procedures

• Raise the car and find the sensor. For this code, it refers to the bank 1 sensor, which is the side of the engine that contains cylinder # 1. It is located between the exhaust manifold and the converter or, in the case of a diesel engine, upstream of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). It differs from oxygen sensors in that it is a two-wire plug. On a turbocharged vehicle, the sensor will be located next to the turbocharged exhaust gas inlet.
• Check the connectors for any abnormalities such as corrosion or loose terminals. Trace the pigtail to the connector and check it.
• Look for signs of missing insulation or exposed wires that may short to ground.
• Disconnect the top connector and remove the EGT sensor. Check resistance with an ohmmeter. Check both connector terminals. A good EGT will have about 150 ohms. If the resistance is very low - below 50 ohms, replace the sensor.
• Use a hair dryer or heat gun and heat the sensor while observing an ohmmeter. The resistance should drop as the sensor heats up and rise as it cools. If not, replace it.
• If everything was good at this point, turn on the key and measure the voltage on the cable from the motor side. The connector should have 5 volts. If not, replace the computer.

Another reason for setting this code is that the catalytic converter has been replaced with a return system. In most states, this is an illegal procedure that, if discovered, is punishable by a large fine. It is recommended to check local and national laws regarding the disposal of this system as it allows uncontrolled emissions to the atmosphere. It might work, but everyone has a responsibility to do their part to keep our atmosphere clean for future generations.

Until this is repaired, the code can be reset by purchasing a 2.2 ohm change resistor from any electronics store. Just dispose of the EGT sensor and connect the resistor to the electrical connector on the motor side. Wrap it with tape and the computer will verify that the EGT is working properly.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing Code P0544

The main mistake made when diagnosing code P0544 is that the technician believes that the oxygen sensor is an exhaust gas temperature sensor or that they are integrated into each other as one unit. This is incorrect and replacing the oxygen sensor does not clear the code or fix the problem.

How serious is the P0544 code?

P0544 does not interfere with the operation of the vehicle or prevent the safe operation of the vehicle, but it can lead to voltage and electrical problems because the PCM relies on the sensor to provide optimal functionality. It regulates the ignition timing and air/fuel ratio, which protects the vehicle's catalytic converter.

What repairs can fix code P0544?

General repairs used for code P0544:

• Checking the code with a code scanner and then resetting the codes before a road test. If code P0544 returns, the exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit needs to be tested.
• If it is in good condition, especially in the areas closest to the hottest components of the exhaust system, proceed with the diagnosis. If there are signs of damage, burning, corrosion, or other signs requiring repair, repair and retest the scanner.
• If there is no damage, disconnect the sensor connector and physically remove it. Using an ohmmeter, measure the resistance of the sensor and verify that it is within manufacturer's specifications.
• If it is not within specifications, replace the sensor. If it meets the standards, test it manually with a heat gun while monitoring the resistance on an ohmmeter to determine if it decreases accordingly. If not, replace the sensor.
• If this repair does not resolve the problem, check the voltage at the sensor connector with the vehicle ignition on. If it shows adequate voltage, it's a PCM problem.

Additional comments to consider regarding code P0544

PCM failure is a rare event, but it can be the cause of this code and should be resolved if the diagnostic and repair steps fail to resolve the code.

How to fix P0544 Sensor 1 for Exhaust Temp Bank 1 G235 Passat B6 2009 Senzor temp. gaze evacuare

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