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P0113

Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High

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By
KBB Service Advisor
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Reviewed by
Gary Hardesty

Which Codes Will This Page Cover?

  • P0110 Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit
  • P0111 Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance
  • P0112 Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
  • P0113 Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High
  • P0114 Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent

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What Is the P0113 Code?

Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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Error Code P0113 is a specific extension of the OBD II code P0. P0 codes are displayed as P0XXX and the third numeral in the code sequence signifies where the system has encountered a problem. The number one indicates an issue with fuel and air metering, which may indicate that your vehicle has a faulty sensor, according to code P0113.

You may also be interested in P0070 Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit A.

More About Error Code P0113

Error code P0113 is indicative of an issue with your vehicle’s intake air temperature sensor. Some vehicles have an air intake temperature sensor or IAT sensor. This will either be mounted inside the air filter duct housing or built into the mass airflow sensor (MAF).

The IAF sensor measures the intake air temperature using what is known as a thermistor. A thermistor can measure temperature based on electrical resistance. The drop in resistance equates to a rise in temperature. The error code signifies a decrease in resistance.

The resistance level on the thermistor is a result of internal temperature. This regularly determines the voltage of the feedback received by the PCM. If the air intake temperature is at an adequate level, there will be some resistance with the thermistor, and the feedback voltage will be under five volts. Whenever the feedback voltage is at five volts, it lets the PCM know there is low resistance. This means that the air intake temperature is too high, thus error code P0113 will not be triggered.

What Are the Symptoms of a P0113 Code?

There are several symptoms associated with a P0113 error code. The most common sign is a car that is unable or hesitant to start, especially in colder weather conditions. When you have an issue with your air intake system, it causes the car to overheat and the air to fuel ratio inevitably becomes out of balance. This affects the efficiency of your ignition system, resulting in the driver having to turn the ignition switch multiple times before the car starts.

Another symptom of a P0113 error code is increased fuel consumption. If you suspect that your fuel usage is higher than normal, you should check the condition of your spark plugs for confirmation. If you are using more fuel with error code P0113 present, your spark plugs will be covered in a black coating and have a fuel-like odor to them. If the coating on your spark plugs is not treated, it will become difficult for your car to start and combust the mixture of air and fuel properly.

Misfires are another symptom of error code P0113. Misfires occur when the engine cannot complete the combustion cycle. This means that it skips the intake, compression, combustion, power stroke, or exhaust steps that are necessities for the adequate functioning of your vehicle.

What Are Some Causes of a P0113 Code?

There are several causes for the triggering of error code P0113. You may experience an issue with your IAT or MAF sensors, or they may cease working altogether. These sensors may need to be cleaned and adjusted. A dirty air filter can also cause said code to appear. In addition, complications with damaged or corroded wiring will also result in a P0113 error code. A faulty PCM has also been known to cause the code to show up. Even though it is the most uncommon factor, a faulty PCM is the most expensive cause to repair.

How Serious Is the P0113 Code?

Error code P0113 is recognized as a minor issue. The causes that trigger this code may not result in immediate danger to your vehicle, but if the problem is not addressed within a reasonable time, the issue can become more serious and result in misfires. If your vehicle is misfiring, it should not be driven under any circumstances. To avoid this, your vehicle should be taken to a mechanic for immediate diagnosis and repairs.

Many other codes are similar in both symptoms and causes to those of a P0113 error code. Codes ranging from P0110-P0114 all warrant similar symptoms and causes. With this in mind, many of these codes will appear in tandem with one another, making the root cause even more difficult to diagnose. That is why it is crucial to have a qualified mechanic scan your vehicle for these similar codes to determine the root cause of their display.

Can I Still Drive with a P0113 Code?

This error code indicates that your vehicle’s sensor circuit is high. This is not to be confused with an actual sensor reading of a high temperature in air intake. For instance, an IAT with a high circuit of 5 volts is actually communicating to the engine control module that the air intake temperature is negative 40 degrees fahrenheit. So, while error codes P0110-P0114 are not serious enough to stop you from using your vehicle, they are something you should investigate immediately. This is especially the case because all of these codes have common root causes, all of which may lead to engine misfires.

How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0113 Code?

The first step when diagnosing any error code ranging from P0110-P0114, especially error code P0113, is to determine the functionality of your vehicle’s sensor. This process can prove to be a daunting and confusing task, so it is recommended to seek the aid of a professional mechanic for a sufficient diagnosis, especially because this particular code is often accompanied by others with similar causes and symptoms.

How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0113 Code?

If the air intake temperature is lower than the coolant, all connections must be cleaned and the wiring of the IAT sensor must be inspected. If this or any other similar codes persist, the IAT sensor must be changed. If your IAT sensor is operating efficiently, the next step is to check if your air filter is dirty and needs to be replaced. If the code shows up again after the filter has been changed, you may need to replace either your MAF sensor or your PCM. These processes are very complex and servicing these components of a vehicle properly is crucial in resolving the issue. It is best to leave repairs to experienced mechanics.

Need Additional Help with Your P0113 Code?

If you need additional assistance diagnosing or repairing your vehicle after receiving a P0113 error code, or any other similar codes that normally accompany it, you should take your vehicle to a service center in your area. A qualified mechanic can assess the problem and have your vehicle repaired quickly, so you can get back on the road sooner rather than later. Visit KBB.com and check out the full list of service center locations near you!

P0113 Q&A

Common Error Codes

P0128 - Coolant Thermostat (Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature)

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