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The P0098 code definition is “Intake Air Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High Bank 1.” This code indicates that the circuit related to the intake air temperature sensor (IAT sensor), which calculates the amount of air coming into your car’s intake, as well as its density, has a higher input than the normal sensor range. This code is similar to P0097, which indicates that the circuit is low, while this code indicates that the circuit is high. This generic powertrain code can show up in many vehicles equipped with an OBD-II system.
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More About the P0098 Code
Your vehicle needs an intake air temperature sensor to ensure that your powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) is able to calculate important components of the air/fuel ratio. This sensor calculates the amount and density of the air coming into your car’s intake by monitoring the temperature, which has an impact on how much air your vehicle needs to start correctly. The signal voltage should be a 5-volt reference signal, which may change based on the intake air temperature, allowing the voltage range to fluctuate between zero and five volts. If the signal voltage is higher than this, your vehicle will set code P0098.
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There are almost never any symptoms of the P0098 code outside of the check engine light or other malfunction indicator lamps turning on. However, if this code has to do with other problems occurring within the engine, you may see symptoms having to do with those problems or codes. Because this code just has to do with a high circuit, it’s important that you check for other engine problems before you assume that there would be no issues associated with it.
While this is a very simple problem, there are actually multiple possible causes related to the code P0098. If you see code P0098, it could mean that any of these are true:
The P0098 diagnostic trouble code can have many causes, so you’ll need to put in serious diagnostic work to ensure that you find the core problem.
The P0098 code may not seem like a very big deal, but being able to determine air temperature is extremely important. Although the P0098 code doesn’t necessarily mean that temperature readings are incorrect, the presence of a sensor circuit issue can also create an issue that eventually results in unpredictable temperature readings, leading to bigger problems with the engine’s performance. Even though the sensor signal is the only issue here, it’s still a good idea to fix it as soon as possible.
You will physically be able to drive if the P0098 code is the only problem you’re experiencing. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a great idea to do so. Again, the sensor connector is a small problem now, but it can easily become a much more serious problem in the future. One common mistake that many car owners make is only fixing problems once they cause severe drivability issues. If you fix the problem earlier, you’re more likely to be able to fix it cheaply and with less time required for the fix.
Diagnosing the P0098 code can be a bit difficult. If the problem is just that the sensor itself is no longer outputting the correct voltage signal, it could be as easy as replacing that sensor. However, it’s also possible that you could be dealing with a loose connection or other fault in the electrical connection. If these are the problems, it’s likely to be much more difficult to diagnose and fix the problem. This is why many DIYers choose to get help from an expert instead.
The inspection process for the P0098 code can be difficult, as you’ll probably need to inspect the sensor itself, including measuring sensor resistance, check the wiring harness, and possibly even check out the repair manual for your specific vehicle make and model, as repair steps aren’t always the same between any two different vehicles. If you’re not confident in your ability to do this, you might want to talk to a professional mechanic instead of trying to fix the problem on your own.
It’s quite common for people to need extra help with the P0098 code, from the diagnostic procedures to the process of actually fixing the problem. If you’re one of those, there are plenty of ways to fix your problem.
To start, you’ll likely want to find an auto repair shop in your area. This ensures that you get the fixes you’re looking for without having to go too far out of your way.
Additionally, especially if you’re seeing other error codes in your vehicle, you could also check out the OBD-II database at KBB.com. This database will give you insight into all sorts of codes, giving you an idea of the fixes you could be looking at as part of the repair job.
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.