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P0542 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit High". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P0542 Trouble Code indicates that there is an issue with the intake air heater “A” circuit high.
The code means that the powertrain control module has found that the input voltage reading from the intake air heater circuit is not normal when compared with the manufacturer’s guidelines. In some cases, it might take up to three drive cycle failures before the Check Engine lamp comes on.
The following are some of the most common causes of the P0542 code:
Drivers will not notice that there is any issue with the vehicle when this code is present. However, it becomes a stored code. The only indication that there is anything wrong with the vehicle would be the Check Engine Light that comes on and stays on.
When there is a P0542 code, the mechanic will utilize an OBD-II scanner and connect it to the vehicle’s computer system. It will then gather data that the computer has stored, which can make the diagnosis easier for the mechanic. The mechanic will then want to reset the codes. They then take the vehicle for a test drive and see if the light returns. If it does, they know that there is an issue they need to repair. If it doesn’t, then it generally means there is nothing wrong with the vehicle.
Sometimes, after replacing an air filter, or when removing the air cleaner box to repair it, the intake air temperatures are not reconnected. If this happens, it can cause the code to appear, but the driver might believe that the problem is related to the air filter rather than the sensors.
When you have the P0542 code appear on your vehicle, it doesn’t tend to be very serious. Your vehicle will still drive fine, and you will not likely notice any difference in the performance. The only indication that something is wrong is the Check Engine Light. This doesn’t mean that you should ignore the problem though. You will still want to have the sensors fixed so that the vehicle can continue to run properly.
Just because the vehicle is still driving well doesn’t mean that you can ignore the warning lights that come on. They are there to tell you that something is wrong with the vehicle so you can take it to a mechanic and have it repaired properly.
YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.
Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.
