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Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Correlation between Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Bank1/Bank2
What does that signify?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is commonly found in many OBD-II vehicles, including Ford, Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and others.
A stored code P007F indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a discrepancy in the correlating signals between the charge air temperature (CAT) sensors for the separate banks of the engine. Bank 1 refers to the engine bank that contains the number one cylinder.
As indicated by the code description, a P007F is applicable only to vehicles equipped with forced air induction systems and multiple intake air inlet sources. These intake air inlet sources include throttle bodies, and the forced air induction systems are configured around turbochargers and superchargers.
CAT sensors are typically composed of a thermal resistor in a plastic housing. The CAT sensor is inserted through the air inlet tube (from outside to inside) with the resistor suspended on a two-wire pedestal. It is positioned so that ambient air entering the turbocharger inlet pipe (after leaving the air charge cooler/intercooler) can flow across it. The CAT sensor is usually designed to thread or bolt into the turbocharger/supercharger inlet pipe, near the intercooler.
The level of resistance in the CAT sensor resistor decreases as the actual charge air temperature increases. This causes the circuit voltage to move towards the reference maximum. The PCM recognizes these variations in CAT sensor voltage as changes in charge air temperature and reacts accordingly.
The CAT sensors provide data to the PCM for boost pressure solenoid operation and boost pressure release valve operation, as well as certain aspects of fuel delivery and ignition timing calibration.
If the PCM detects voltage signals from the CAT sensors (for engine banks one and two) that reflect a difference exceeding the maximum allowable parameters, a code P007F will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated. Multiple drive cycles with a detected failure may be required for MIL illumination.
What is the severity of this DTC?
The conditions contributing to a stored code P007F will undoubtedly adversely affect engine performance and fuel efficiency. Therefore, it should be categorized as severe.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P007F engine code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this engine code may include:
What are some P007F troubleshooting steps?
When diagnosing CAT sensor related codes, it is advisable to begin by ensuring that there are no obstructions in the airflow across the intercooler.
If there are no intercooler obstructions and the air filter is relatively clean, a visual inspection of all CAT sensor system wiring and connectors is necessary.
If the vehicle has been equipped with an aftermarket methanol injection system, PCM reprogramming may be required for optimum performance gains. The PCM will typically continue to store a code until reprogramming occurs.
To diagnose a code P007F, a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information are needed.
The diagnostic process begins by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. Freeze frame data provides a snapshot of the exact circumstances that were occurring at the time of the malfunction that led to the stored code P007F. This information should be recorded as it may be helpful during the diagnostic process. Next, the codes should be cleared and the vehicle should be test-driven to see if the code is reset.
If the P007F is immediately reset:
If the appropriate reference voltage and ground are discovered:
If the correct degree of voltage is exhibited by the sensor signal circuit:
Individual system circuits can be tested using the DVOM only after the PCM (and all related controllers) have been disconnected. Connector pin-out charts and wiring diagrams should be followed to effectively test individual circuit resistance and/or continuity.
If all system circuits appear to be functioning as intended, the individual CAT sensors can be tested using the DVOM (and the reliable source of vehicle information). The DVOM should be set to the ohms setting, and the sensors should be tested while they are unplugged. CAT sensors that fail to comply with manufacturer’s specifications should be considered defective.
PCM failure or a PCM programming error should only be suspected if all CAT sensors and circuits are within specifications.
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While we always recommend seeking mechanical solutions for this issue, if it is not possible, we offer the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. All other codes will continue to function. If you are interested in this option, please upload your ECU file to our portal.
