The air intake system is an essential part of any engine. It’s directly responsible for introducing air into the engine, which is imperative for maintaining an optimal air to fuel ratio. If there are any issues with the air intake system, there’s a chance you’ll encounter a check engine light code such as the P0113 stored in the ECU.
In this article, we’ll be covering the P0113 code, what it means, its causes, symptoms, ways to diagnose it, and how to fix it.
What is the P0113 Code, and What Does It Mean?
The P0113 fault code stands for Air Intake Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input Problem. The air intake temperature sensor is used to measure air temperature and send important information to the ECU which determines the exact amount of fuel needed and the time of the spark for the engine to work perfectly.
The P0113 code in simple terms means that the ECU noticed a higher than normal voltage on the air intake sensor. In optimal conditions, the air intake sensor should have 4.91 volts, so the code is triggered if this value is exceeded for more than half a second.
When this happens, the ECU will get false readings, which can then cause all kinds of performance issues down the road.
What Causes a P0113 Fault Code?
When it comes to the most common causes of the P0113 fault code, they generally come down to a faulty air temperature sensor, a faulty mass air flow sensor, and faulty wiring/connectors.
Faulty Air Temperature Sensor
Out of the three, a faulty air temperature sensor is the most common cause. Debris, constant vibration, and continuous exposure to high temperatures can cause this critical sensor to fail or fall out of spec. The deterioration of the air temperature sensor isn’t always quick either, so you might experience intermittent issues.
Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass air flow sensor is less likely to be the cause of this fault code compared to a faulty air temperature sensor, but it’s still reported as a relatively common cause. When the MAF sensor isn’t working properly, it’s unable to properly measure the amount of air that is entering the intake. Without that data, the ECU can’t accurately adjust the air/fuel mixture, which in turn leads to all kinds of performance issues.
Faulty Wiring Or Broken Connectors
Wires and connectors located in the engine bay are exposed to frequent heat cycles that can lead to them becoming brittle over time. When that happens, any excess vibrations coming from the engine or the road could potentially compromise the integrity of these electrical circuits. That being said, this isn’t exclusive to intake sensors. Pretty much anything under the hood that’s close to the engine can suffer the same consequences given enough time, heat, and vibrations.
Can a Dirty Air Filter Cause a P0113 Code?
Yes, a dirty air filter is one of the possible causes for a P0113 code. The air filter is used to prevent dust and other particles from reaching the air intake manifold, and if the air filter is dirty, it’s a matter of time when debris will reach the internal parts of the engine.
Aside from causing the P0113 fault code, a dirty air filter can be a cause for many other issues, and that’s why it’s important to replace it with a quality filter as a part of regular maintenance.
What Are the Common Symptoms of P0113 Fault Code?
Only a few symptoms are considered common regarding the P0113 code. They include the check engine light, trouble starting the car, and various symptoms of an engine running lean.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light isn’t a specific symptom of a P0113 fault code, but for every issue detected by the car’s ECU. What this means is that you’ll see the check engine light every time the ECU detects an issue. Using an OBD II scanner will give you a detailed overview of which codes are stored and what problems your car has.
Car Won’t Start
Another symptom you may encounter after the P0113 fault code is triggered is a no-start condition. This happens due to the inability of the ECU to control the air to fuel ratio. In some vehicles, when the ECU can’t determine critical intake parameters, there are safeties in place which prevent the engine from starting.
Engine Running Lean
The last common symptom of the P0113 fault code includes the engine running lean. In other words, there is too much air in the air/fuel mix, causing the engine to perform poorly. A lean condition often carries a wide range of other issues along with it.
We’re talking engine misfire, rough idle, loss of power, engine hesitance, and more. While a lean condition isn’t necessarily always caused by a faulty air temperature sensor, a faulty air temperature sensor is known to cause a lean condition.
How to Diagnose the Cause of P0113 Code
Diagnosing the cause for the P0113 code is relatively easy if you have basic knowledge and the required tools. You’ll need to check the trouble code with your OBD II scanner, visually check the air temperature sensor and its connections/wiring, and use a multimeter to check the resistance.
Check The ECU For Fault Codes
The first thing is making sure that P0113 is the only fault code stored in the ECU. You can do this by connecting your OBD II scanner with the car and doing a complete check for DTCs. There are other codes that trigger similar symptoms so knowing which code is triggered will determine how you’ll need to diagnose the cause of the issue.
Visually Inspect Wiring And Connections
After making sure which code you’re dealing with, you’ll need to visually inspect the wiring and connectors for any exposed wires or other issues. Be thorough as faulty wiring can often be difficult to see and easy to overlook. Once you’re absolutely sure that everything is in good condition, move to the next point of interest.
Check The Intake Air Temperature Sensor
For this step, you’ll need to remove the air temperature sensor from the car. If you’re not sure where it’s located, consult your car’s service manual. Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the sensor. When the sensor is warm, the resistance should be low. If the reading is the same when you warm up the sensor, or you get an infinite resistance reading, the sensor is the one that’s causing the P0113 code!
How Do You Fix an IAT Sensor?
Fixing an intake air temperature sensor is only possible by replacing it. In most vehicles, it’s a straightforward process and requires carefully removing the intake air temperature sensor. The plastic connectors can get brittle and removing the sensor may break it. When removing the sensor, it’s easier if you leave the wiring connected because you’ll have more grip while wiggling it out of its housing. After the sensor is removed, disconnect the wiring.
When you get a new air temperature sensor, make sure to lubricate the plastic insulation for easier fitment. Gently push it into place while making sure you’re not damaging the sensor. After it fits in the housing, continue by connecting the wires and locking the electrical connector.
Does P0113 Clear Itself?
Most vehicles require manual fault code clearing after the issue is resolved. Some vehicles don’t require this step, but it’s recommended to clear the P0113 fault code after replacing faulty parts instead of driving the car and hoping the issue is resolved.
You’ll need to use an OBD II scanner to clear all stored codes in the ECU.
Can You Drive with P0113 Code?
When the P0113 fault code is triggered, most cars won’t be even able to start, but even if they do, the engine will have a rough idle, and it will most likely be misfiring. Although it’s possible to drive a car with the P0113 code, it’s not recommended because this issue can cause other internal parts to fail due to false information coming from the affected sensor.
To stay on the safe side and avoid thousands of dollars worth of fixes, it’s best to tow your car if the code appears while you’re on the road, and avoid driving until you’re certain the issue is fixed.
OEM Parts Offer The Best Performance
No matter if it’s a sensor, an internal part of the engine, or a simple mechanical part, choosing genuine or OEM replacement parts is the best way to go.
OEM parts offer high-quality materials and performance which will ensure your car will be reliable as long it was when it first left the factory. Because of that, we at eEuroparts offer one of the largest catalogs of genuine, OEM, and quality aftermarket parts for most European vehicles.
To find the parts you need, just select your car using our vehicle selection tool and pick the category of parts you need. You’ll get results based on your vehicle, so you won’t need to worry about the fitment.
