Fuel and air

P007E — Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Signal Erratic (Bank 1)

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P007E means

The engine control module detected an unstable signal from the bank 1 charge air cooler (intercooler) temperature sensor, with voltage jumping or dropping out. The ECM uses this temperature to adjust boost, fueling and spark timing, and to protect the engine from hot intake air. If the signal can't be trusted, it may limit power.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Reduced power or sluggish throttle response
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Rough idle or hesitation under acceleration
  • Possible limp mode
  • Code that comes and goes

Possible causes

  1. Failing charge air temperature sensor
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the sensor
  3. Intermittent open circuit or poor ground in the sensor harness
  4. Moisture or oil in the sensor connector
  5. Rarely, a faulty ECM

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for codes and freeze frame data, noting any boost or intake related codes
  2. Inspect the sensor, connector and harness for chafing, corrosion, oil and heat damage
  3. Wiggle the harness and connector with the engine running while watching the live temperature reading
  4. Compare the sensor reading on a cold engine with intake air and ambient temperature
  5. Check reference voltage and ground at the connector with a multimeter
  6. Measure sensor resistance and compare it with the manufacturer's spec
  7. Test the wires to the ECM for opens and shorts
  8. If everything checks out, test the ECM and its power supply

Common fixes

  • Replace the charge air temperature sensor
  • Repair the harness or replace a damaged connector
  • Repair the ground circuit and clean the terminals
  • Diagnose, reprogram or replace the ECM if confirmed faulty

Questions and answers

What does P007E mean?

It means the bank 1 charge air cooler temperature sensor signal is intermittent or erratic. The ECM can't rely on the reading and may reduce engine power.

Can I drive with P007E?

For a short time, yes, but don't put it off. You may get lost power, worse fuel economy or limp mode, so check the sensor and wiring soon.

How do I fix P007E?

Start by inspecting the sensor connector and wiring, then test the sensor itself. Most often the fix is a new sensor or a repaired harness.

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.