Fuel and air

P00A6 — Intake Air Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 2)

Severity: low Safe to drive

What P00A6 means

The engine control unit constantly compares the signal from intake air temperature sensor 2 on bank 2 with expected values and with other temperature sensors. P00A6 is set when that signal is out of range, stuck, or does not make sense for current conditions. Air temperature helps the computer adjust fueling and other settings, so a bad reading can skew the air-fuel mixture.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Slightly reduced performance or uneven running
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Unrealistic or jumping air temperature readings on a scan tool

Possible causes

  1. Failed intake air temperature sensor 2
  2. Open or shorted wiring in the sensor circuit
  3. Poor connection at the sensor or PCM connector (corrosion, moisture)
  4. Signal wire shorted to ground or to voltage
  5. Rarely, an internal PCM fault or software issue

How to diagnose

  1. Read all codes and freeze frame data, and look for other air or temperature sensor codes
  2. On a cold engine, compare sensor 2 with the bank 1 sensor and with ambient temperature on a scan tool
  3. Inspect the sensor, connector and harness for chafing, corrosion, oil and moisture
  4. Unplug the connector and check for reference voltage, and continuity of the signal and ground wires
  5. Measure sensor resistance and compare it with the manufacturer's chart at a known temperature
  6. Check the wiring for shorts to ground or to voltage
  7. Swap in a known-good sensor, clear the code and see if it returns

Common fixes

  • Replace intake air temperature sensor 2
  • Repair the wiring or replace a damaged connector
  • Clean the terminals and eliminate moisture entry
  • Update software or replace the PCM only if everything else tests good

Questions and answers

Can I drive with a P00A6 code?

Usually yes. The computer uses a backup value, but fuel economy and drivability may suffer. Have it checked soon.

What does bank 2 mean in P00A6?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1, as on V-type and flat engines. Sensor 2 belongs to that side or to a second intake path.

How do I fix P00A6?

Start with the sensor connector and wiring, then test the sensor itself. Replacing the sensor or repairing a bad connection fixes most cases. Clear the code afterward and confirm it stays off.

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.