Intake air temperature (IAT) sensor codes

The IAT sensor measures the temperature of the air entering the engine so the computer can adjust fuel and ignition timing for air density. On many engines it is built into the MAF sensor housing.

How its codes differ

  • P0113 means the IAT signal is at the high-voltage end, which the computer reads as impossibly cold air: usually an open circuit, unplugged connector or failed sensor rather than a real temperature.
  • When the IAT is built into the MAF housing, P0113 together with P0101 or P0102 points to a shared connector or wiring fault.

Codes

  • P0113

    The intake air temperature signal is stuck at a reading colder than any real air could be

    Severity: Monitor
  • P0101

    Airflow sensor reading doesn't match what the engine computer expects for the throttle opening

    Severity: Inspect soon
  • P0102

    The airflow sensor's signal is lower than the engine computer will accept

    Severity: Inspect soon

Signs it's failing

  • Check engine light with P0113
  • Hard starting, especially in the cold
  • Reduced power or hesitation
  • Higher fuel use

How to test it

  1. With the engine cold, compare the IAT reading on a scan tool with the outside air temperature; a reading far below any real temperature fits P0113. (Low risk)

  2. With the engine off, check the sensor connector for corrosion, damage or a loose fit. (Low risk)

  3. Resistance and supply-voltage tests against specification need a meter and service information; have a shop do them if unsure. (Use caution)

    Warning: Work with the ignition off when probing connectors unless the test calls for it, and avoid shorting terminals.

After the repair

  • Check that the IAT reading matches outside air on a cold engine.
  • Clear codes only after the repair, then drive normally over several days with both city and highway driving so the readiness monitors can complete; clearing codes or disconnecting the battery resets them to not ready, which fails an emissions test.

Sources and review

  1. Intake-air temperature sensor: function, fault symptoms and testing — HELLA TechWorld
  2. Saab 9-3 (2008) WIS DTC P0113 00 (ME9): Intake air temperature sensor circuit short to B+ / open circuit — Saab Automobile (Saab WIS service information, hosted by Saab Club of North America)
  3. Saab 9-2X 2.5i (2005) WIS DTC P0113: Intake air temperature circuit high input — Saab Automobile (Saab WIS service information, hosted by Saab Club of North America)
  4. Saab 9-2X 2.5i (2005) WIS DTC P0101: Mass or volume air flow circuit range/performance — Saab Automobile (Saab WIS service information, hosted by Saab Club of North America)
  5. OBD Vehicle 'Readiness' Fact Sheet (E-Check) — Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
Last reviewed
Written by
Saurabh K.
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