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Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Intermittent Circuit Issue with Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 on Bank 2
What does that signify?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that is applicable to all vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later (including Ford, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, etc.). While it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
A stored code P00AE indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an intermittent input signal from the intake air temperature (IAT) sensor circuit on bank 2. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain the number one cylinder.
The PCM utilizes the IAT input signal and the mass airflow (MAF) sensor input signal to calculate the fuel delivery and ignition timing strategy. Since maintaining the correct air/fuel ratio (typically 14:1) is crucial for engine performance and fuel efficiency, the input from the IAT sensor is highly important.
The IAT sensor is usually threaded directly into the intake manifold, but it is more commonly inserted into the air inlet pipe or air cleaner box. Some manufacturers also integrate the IAT sensor into the MAF sensor housing. Regardless of its location, it must be positioned in a way that allows ambient air, drawn into the intake manifold through the throttle body, to continuously and consistently flow across it while the engine is running.
The IAT sensor typically consists of a two-wire thermistor sensor. The sensor resistance varies based on the temperature of the air flowing across the cold wire element. Most OBD II equipped vehicles use a reference voltage (usually five volts) and a ground signal to complete the IAT sensor circuit. The varying resistance levels in the IAT sensor element cause voltage fluctuations in the input circuit. The PCM interprets these fluctuations as changes in intake air temperature.
If the PCM detects a certain number of intermittent signals from the bank 2 IAT sensor over a specific period of time, it will store a code P00AE and may illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp.
Related trouble codes for the bank 2 IAT sensor circuit:
Severity & Symptoms
The IAT sensor signal is crucial for the PCM to calculate the fuel delivery strategy. Therefore, a code P00AE should be considered severe.
Symptoms of a P00AE code may include:
Causes
Possible causes for this engine code include:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A good starting point is to check for any technical service bulletins (TSB) specific to your vehicle. There may be a known issue with a known fix provided by the manufacturer, which can save time and money during diagnosis.
When dealing with a code P00AE, it is recommended to have a suitable diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), an infrared thermometer, and a reliable vehicle information source (such as All Data DIY) at your disposal.
Connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector and retrieve the stored trouble codes and applicable freeze frame data. It is advisable to write down this information in case it is needed later. Clear the codes and test drive the vehicle. If the code is immediately reset, proceed with the diagnostic process.
Most professional technicians begin by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the IAT sensor (don’t forget to check the air filter and air inlet pipe). Pay close attention to the sensor connector, as it is prone to corrosion due to its proximity to the battery and coolant reservoir.
If the system wiring, connectors, and components appear to be in working order, proceed by connecting the scanner to the diagnostic connector and opening the data stream. By narrowing down the data stream to include only relevant data, you can receive a faster response. Use the infrared thermometer to ensure that the IAT reading on the scanner accurately reflects the actual intake air temperature.
If the reading is incorrect, consult your vehicle information source for IAT sensor testing recommendations. Use the DVOM to test the sensor and compare the results with the vehicle specifications. Replace the sensor if it fails to meet the specifications.
If the sensor passes the resistance test, check for a sensor reference voltage and ground. If either of these signals is absent, repair the open or shorted circuit and retest the system. If the reference and ground signals are present, obtain an IAT sensor voltage to temperature chart from your vehicle information source and use the DVOM to test the sensor’s output voltage. Compare the voltage with the voltage to temperature chart and replace the sensor if the actual findings deviate from the maximum recommended tolerances.
If the actual IAT input voltage falls within the specifications, disconnect the electrical connectors from all related controllers and use the DVOM to test the resistance and continuity of all system circuits. Repair or replace any circuits that are found to be open or shorted, and retest the system.
If the IAT sensor and all system circuits are within the recommended specifications, suspect a defective PCM or a PCM programming error.
Additional diagnostic notes:
Professional Service
While we always recommend resolving this issue through mechanical means, if for some reason that is not possible, we offer the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. All other codes will continue to function normally. If you are interested in this option, please upload your ECU file to our portal.
