Car temperature sensor

How to identify a faulty intake air temperature sensor

Diagnostics of the intake air temperature sensor is performed in two stages. First, measure the inner resistance of the component in various temperature modes. To do so, disassemble the component, and connect two wires to the ohmmeter. The temperature may be changed with a heat gun, or a tank with warm water. The ohmmeter readings should change proportionally to the temperature. The exact correspondence between the values are available in the manual to the component.

The next stage of diagnostics is aimed at visual inspection of the component and connecting wires. Carefully inspect the connector pins for oxidation. Make sure that the wires are connected correctly and are not damaged. If you are unable to detect the fault yourself, ask competent specialists at a service station for help.

You may notice that the intake air temperature sensor requires diagnostics by the following symptoms:

• the engine operates erratically at idle speed;
• problems with starting the engine;
• reduced power of the engine;
• excessive fuel consumption;
• Check Engine indicator lights up on the instrument panel.

The reasons of the intake air temperature sensor malfunctions

Damage of the component may be caused by high pressure in the intake manifold. Ingress of abrasive particles and oil on the component results in the loss of indicator sensitivity, and the sensor will provide incorrect data. Often the reason of premature wear is poor quality of the component, or a manufacturing defect.

Corrosion on the terminals and wiring is due to moisture and frequent temperature variations. Incorrect connection of the wires may affect internal resistance of the component.

Repairing and replacing the intake air temperature sensor

The only possible way to restore the component functionality is cleaning. Carbon deposits and corrosive bloom may be removed from the terminals with a special cleaner for electronic devices. This manipulation makes sense if the component is not damaged, and it is only fouling that prevents its operation. In all other cases, the component is to be replaced.

To replace the sensor, follow the below procedure:

1. Unscrew the bolts that fasten the component.
2. Carefully disconnect the wires.
3. Extract the sensor from the air intake duct.
4. Install the new component.