P0113 OBD-II Trouble Code: IAT Sensor Circuit High Input Problem

P0113 code definition

Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor circuit high input problem

What the P0113 code means

P0113 is the OBD-II generic code that the engine control module (ECM) has recorded the IAT sensor output above expected sensor range.

What causes the P0113 code?

If the sensor output voltage is more than 4.91 V for 0.5 seconds or more, the ECM determines that there is an open circuit in the IAT sensor circuit, and sets trouble code P0113.

What are the symptoms of the P0113 code?

• The ECM will turn on the Check Engine Light and go into a failsafe mode.
• Engine may not start as usual
• Engine may run extra lean
• Engine may have pre-ignition problems from lean burn conditions

Note: The symptoms are determined by the manufacturer failsafe ECM strategy for the vehicle during a failure and may vary between manufacturers and vehicles.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0113 code?

• Scans the ECM, documents the codes received, and views the freeze frame data to see the conditions present when the code was set

• Clears the vehicle of fault codes and the retests the vehicle to see if the code comes back

• Performs a visual inspection to check for shorting harness or connector to sensor

• Observes the sensor’s live data on the scanner while disconnecting the IAT sensor connector to see if the sensor reading goes to -40°F indicating the sensor is shorted

If the sensor is disconnected and input is still 240°F then the short is in the connector or harness.

If no problems are noted, the mechanic performs the manufacturer's specific pinpoint tests for the code and repair as needed.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0113 code

• Not performing a visual inspection of connections and wiring

• Not following the manufacturer pinpoint test procedure step-by-step and skipping steps

• Not replacing an IAT sensor only when tests indicate a problem

• Not connecting a new or known good sensor to the harness and viewing the ECM data to see if the temperature output from the sensor is as expected

How serious is the P0113 code?

• The P0113 code will cause the engine ECM to go into a failsafe mode.

• The failsafe mode, depending on the manufacturer failsafe mode strategy, may cause lean condition drivability symptoms.

• Driving the vehicle for an extended time running too lean can cause internal engine problems with rings and valves.

What repairs can fix the P0113 code?

• Repairing or replacing the IAT connector short
• Repairing or replacing the wiring short as necessary
• Replacing the IAT with a new sensor

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0113 code

• The P0113 code is often associated with P0111, P0112, and P0114 codes.

• Most intake air temperature sensor problems for code P0113 are failures from damaged shorted harnesses or from sensors shorted internally to power.

Need help with a P0113 code?

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