Fuel and air

P007C — Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Circuit Low, Bank 1

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P007C means

The engine control unit monitors the temperature of the boosted air leaving the intercooler using a thermistor-type sensor. P007C sets when the signal voltage in the Bank 1 circuit falls below the expected range. That usually points to a short to ground or a faulty sensor. Without a reliable reading, the ECU cannot fine-tune boost and fueling accurately.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Limp mode
  • Possible interference with DPF regeneration on diesels

Possible causes

  1. Failed charge air temperature sensor
  2. Signal wire shorted to ground or damaged harness insulation
  3. Corroded or loose connector at the sensor or ECU
  4. Moisture or oil in the sensor connector
  5. Faulty ECU (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze frame data, clear the code and see if it returns
  2. Compare the live charge air temperature reading with intake air temperature on a cold engine
  3. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion, moisture, oil and a secure fit
  4. Unplug the sensor: if the reading jumps to maximum or the code changes to a high-circuit code, the wiring is likely fine and the sensor is bad
  5. Measure sensor resistance and compare to the spec at a known temperature
  6. Check the signal wire for a short to ground or an open, and inspect the harness along the intercooler and hoses
  7. Verify the 5 V reference at the connector
  8. If wiring and sensor are good, test the ECU

Common fixes

  • Replace the charge air temperature sensor
  • Repair the damaged harness section or replace the connector
  • Clean the terminals and secure the connectors
  • Reflash or replace the ECU, only after ruling out everything else

Questions and answers

Can I drive with P007C?

For a short time, yes, but the engine may lose power or go into limp mode. Have the sensor and wiring checked soon.

What does a low circuit signal mean?

The ECU is receiving less voltage than expected, most often from a short to ground or a bad sensor. The actual air temperature may be perfectly normal.

Is replacing the sensor enough?

Often it is, but check the connector and harness first. If a wiring short is the cause, a new sensor won't fix it.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.