Code P0113: IAT Sensor 1 Circuit High Input
Your vehicle has a number of sensors that monitor your engine and report to your powertrain control module. These sensors ensure any unusual performance issue is promptly identified and repaired. One of these sensors is your intake air temperature, or IAT, sensor. A high input on the IAT sensor circuit results in trouble code P0113. If you’re wondering how do I fix trouble code P0113? Look for possible causes and successful solutions for most makes and models of vehicles.
What Does P0113 Mean?
Trouble code P0113 is triggered when your powertrain control module registered a signal voltage over five volts. So, what does the code P0113 mean? It’s essential to understand how your IAT sensor works to find the solution to this malfunction.
Your IAT sensor is a thermistor, meaning it changes resistance depending on the surrounding temperature. An increase in temperature creates a decrease in resistance. Your powertrain control module has a five-volt circuit as a reference for the current resistance of the IAT sensor. When the temperature of the air entering your engine is low, your IAT sensor sends a five-volt signal.
Under normal operations, your IAT sensor will never send a signal over five volts. So when your powertrain control module received a signal over five volts, it triggered error code P0113. This signal is the result of a high input registered at your powertrain control module. It isn’t the result of a high or low temperature of airflow, but is instead an electrical issue with your IAT sensor.
Common Symptoms
Because this trouble code refers to an issue with the circuit of a sensor, it won’t affect the performance of your vehicle. Your malfunction indicator lamp will be illuminated and your OBD-II scanner will read trouble code P0113. It’s still important to restore functionality of this sensor so your powertrain control module can monitor the air intake temperature.
Possible Causes
This error code is caused by an electrical issue with your IAT sensor. This narrows the possible causes to a few systems:
- IAT sensor
- Wiring harness
- Electrical connectors
- Powertrain control module
The most common cause is a damaged sensor. An internal failure is typically the result of impact, moisture or extreme temperature. However, any of these issues could also damage wiring outside the sensor.
Inspect all the wiring and IAT harness for any signs of damage, particularly if the wiring is routed near a high-temperature or high-voltage hazard. These hazards could include the alternator or spark plug cables.
Finally, although unlikely, there could be an issue within your powertrain control module. An issue with this module will likely cause multiple error codes and extensive failure of electrical systems, so this is an unlikely cause if you’re only experiencing error code P0113.
Repair Solutions
Because the most common cause is your IAT sensor, use a scan tool to check the reading. Check the resting rating as well as the high rating. The resting rating should be similar to the current temperature, while the maximum temperature should be at least 280 degrees Fahrenheit. You can achieve a maximum temperature reading by installing a jumper wire between the ground circuit and harness connector signal.
If the readings are acceptable, this means there’s a wiring issue between the IAT sensor and your powertrain control module. Carefully inspect the entire length of wiring, including the ground circuit. Repair any damaged length or wiring or connector and test again.
Your OBD-II scanner error code P0113 problem can vary depending on your specific vehicle. Always check any technical service bulletins and your service manual for the location of your IAT sensor and other essential components before attempting a repair. This general error code is related to P0095, P0096 and other error codes.
