What Codes Will This Page Cover?
This article will discuss the following diagnostic error codes as well as their causes and symptoms:
- P2184 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Low
- P2185 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High
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What Is the P2184 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The P2184 and 2185 codes activate when there is an issue with a car’s internal engine coolant system. The ECT (or engine coolant temperature) sensor is located in the coolant passage or in the engine block; high resistance and voltage levels indicate that the engine is cold, while low levels indicate a high temperature.
A P2184 code indicates that the sensor and circuit are recording signal voltage at lower than usual levels. This indicates unusually low resistance and shows that the engine is overheating. By contrast, the P2185 code indicates that voltage levels are higher than usual, which can imply that the engine is excessively cold.
What Are Some Causes of a P2184 Code?
The most obvious causes of these kinds of codes are the overheating or freezing of a car’s engine as a result of internal mechanical failures or extreme environmental conditions such as heat waves or snap freezes. Other possible causes include:
- Damaged or faulty #2 ECT Sensor
- Wiring harness damage
- Bad PCM
- Damaged or faulty connectors
What Are the Symptoms of a P2184 Code?
Beyond the initial activation of the check engine light, there is a range of symptoms associated with these diagnostic codes. The most notable, visible issues associated with these error codes are:
- Drivability issues
- Low fuel efficiency
- Engine running rough
- Stalling when idling
- Engine dying suddenly
- Low coolant levels
How Serious Is the P2184 Code?
These codes can be very serious for your vehicle’s drivability and safety. If the engine refuses to idle or is dying unexpectedly, then it could lead to an accident if the issues arise at the wrong time. Furthermore, a seriously overheated engine poses a fire risk to any vehicle (though older cars are more at risk in some cases).
Can I Still Drive with a P2184 Code?
While you should be able to drive a car displaying a P2185 code for a short while until the issue can be addressed, a P2184 code is something that requires quick action. The activation of the P2184 code indicates an overheating engine and poses a very serious risk to your safety, especially if you live in a hot climate.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P2184 Code?
Diagnosing an engine that is running too hot or too cold is very easy for a professional, but there are some common errors to look out for. For example, it is fairly common to overlook low coolant levels in favor of assumed mechanical issues when a P2184 code is showing consistently. Likewise, there is a tendency to assume that the sensor is at fault when it is far more common for the connectors to be damaged or misaligned in some way.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P2184 Code?
The difficulty of inspection and repair when a vehicle registers a P2184 or P2185 code depends on what components are faulty or damaged. Connectors and sensors are far easier to access and replace than circuits, for example, as is the thermostat. Likewise, the valves that allow for the refill of coolant liquid are very accessible.
Need Additional Help with Your P2184 Code?
If you want to know more about the diagnostic codes that cars display when experiencing electrical or mechanical faults, then the KBB OBD-II database is a great place to start! A comprehensive resource that provides information about diagnostic codes, their associated factors, and how they differ between different manufacturers. This easy-to-access pool of knowledge could make all the difference for owners looking to understand their vehicles better.
Damage to your car’s engine coolant system can be very serious and present issues with drivability in a very short period of time. Dealing with P2184 and P2185 codes as quickly as possible is recommended to prevent breakdown and safety issues. Depending on what the underlying causes and issues are, it may be possible to perform repairs yourself.
Professional repairs are often more effective (and can be safer) when the issues at work involve delicate components. If you require professional help in dealing with your car’s engine coolant sensor issues, then use the Kelley Blue Book repair center locator to find a repair shop near you. Many of the service centers listed here also offer tow truck services for situations where your car is undrivable.
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