Quick Answer
P0112 means: P0112 indicates a low voltage signal from the intake air temperature sensor, affecting engine performance.
Can I drive with P0112? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent engine performance issues.
Common Questions
What does P0112 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0112 indicates that your vehicle's intake air temperature sensor is malfunctioning, which can lead to poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, and increased emissions. Addressing this problem promptly is essential to maintain optimal engine performance.
What are the most common causes of P0112 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of P0112 include a faulty IAT sensor, damaged wiring, or issues with the engine control module. Repair costs can range from $100 to $200 for sensor replacement, and $50 to $150 for wiring repairs.
Can I drive my car with P0112 or should I stop immediately?
While you may be able to drive your vehicle with a P0112 code, it is not advisable as it can lead to reduced engine performance and increased emissions. It’s best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose P0112 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P0112 using the GeekOBD APP, connect the device to your vehicle's OBD2 port, scan for codes, and review the freeze frame data to understand when the fault occurred. This helps in pinpointing the issue effectively.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0112?
The P0112 code is commonly seen in vehicles like the 2016 Ford F-150, 2018 Honda Accord, and various models from Chevrolet and Toyota from 2012-2020. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these issues.
How can I prevent P0112 from happening again?
To prevent P0112 from reoccurring, perform regular vehicle maintenance, keep the engine clean, and check wiring and connectors during routine inspections. Additionally, avoid exposing the sensor to harsh conditions.
What is P0112?
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0112 indicates a problem with the Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor circuit, which is crucial for the vehicle's engine management system. Specifically, this code signifies that the IAT sensor is reporting a voltage that is lower than the expected range, often indicating that the sensor is shorted to ground or that there is a wiring issue in the circuit. The IAT sensor plays a vital role by monitoring the temperature of the incoming air, which helps the engine control module (ECM) adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion. If the ECM detects a fault in the IAT sensor circuit, it can lead to poor fuel economy, increased emissions, and degraded engine performance. Common symptoms include the check engine light illuminating, poor acceleration, or a rough idle, particularly in vehicles like the 2016 Ford F-150 or 2018 Honda Accord. Ignoring this code can lead to more severe engine issues over time, making it essential for vehicle owners to address it promptly. In summary, P0112 indicates an issue with the intake air temperature sensor circuit, affecting engine performance and efficiency, and should be taken seriously to avoid further complications.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0112 is present:
- The check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a fault with the intake air temperature sensor circuit.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, leading to a noticeable decrease in responsiveness when pressing the gas pedal.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, as the engine struggles to maintain the correct air-fuel mixture.
- Rough idle or stalling, particularly when the engine is cold or during initial startup.
- Increased emissions, which could lead to failing an emissions test due to improper combustion.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0112 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a shorted or damaged intake air temperature sensor, with a likelihood of about 60%. This can happen due to exposure to extreme temperatures or physical damage.
- A wiring issue, such as frayed or corroded wires, can also trigger the P0112 code, accounting for approximately 25% of cases. Inspecting the wiring harness for any visible damage is crucial.
- A faulty engine control module (ECM) can lead to incorrect readings from the IAT sensor, though this is less common, making up about 10% of cases. Regular updates and checks on the ECM can prevent this.
- Less common but serious causes include a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which can impact overall engine performance.
- Rarely, software glitches in the vehicle's onboard computer may produce a false P0112 code, necessitating a software update or reset.
P0112 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
IAT Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty intake air temperature sensor with a new OEM part to restore proper functionality.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring in the IAT sensor circuit.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for P0112
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0112 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0112. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the intake air temperature sensor and wiring (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the intake air temperature sensor and wiring (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Failed IAT Sensor Replacement in 2016 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2016 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported a check engine light and poor acceleration.
Diagnosis: After scanning, the P0112 code was confirmed. The IAT sensor was found to be faulty during visual and functional tests.
Solution: Replaced the IAT sensor with an OEM part and cleared the code.
Cost: $150 (sensor cost + labor)
Result: Customer reported improved acceleration and no check engine light post-repair.
Case Study 2: Wiring Issue in 2018 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2018 Honda Accord, 30,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light illuminated, and vehicle experienced rough idling.
Diagnosis: The P0112 code was detected, and further inspection revealed frayed wiring near the IAT sensor.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and installed a new connector.
Cost: $100 (wiring repair + labor)
Result: Vehicle performance returned to normal, with no further issues reported.