Fuel and air

P00AB — Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Range/Performance, Bank 2

Severity: low Safe to drive

What P00AB means

The engine control module sees a signal from the bank 2 intake air temperature (IAT) sensor that is outside the expected range or does not agree with other data, such as coolant temperature or the bank 1 IAT reading. The sensor is a thermistor whose resistance changes with temperature, and the module uses its voltage to estimate air density and adjust fuel and spark. The fault usually points to the sensor, its connector or its wiring.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Often no noticeable symptoms
  • Rough idle
  • Hesitation when accelerating
  • Slightly worse fuel economy
  • Harder starting in extreme heat or cold (rare)

Possible causes

  1. Failed bank 2 IAT sensor
  2. Open or shorted wiring in the sensor circuit
  3. Corroded or loose connector at the sensor or control module
  4. Chafed or damaged wiring harness
  5. Sensor contaminated with oil or dirt
  6. Control module fault or software issue (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze frame data, then clear the code and see if it returns
  2. Inspect the sensor, connector and harness for corrosion, cracks, chafing or moisture
  3. Compare bank 2 IAT with bank 1 IAT and ambient temperature on a cold engine; they should be close
  4. Measure sensor resistance with a multimeter and compare to the spec for that temperature
  5. Check the 5 V reference and ground at the sensor connector
  6. Wiggle the harness and connector with the engine running while watching the reading
  7. Test the wires from the sensor to the module for opens and shorts
  8. If wiring and sensor are good, check the module and look for software updates

Common fixes

  • Replace the bank 2 intake air temperature sensor
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring
  • Clean or replace a corroded connector
  • Reflash or replace the control module if confirmed faulty

Questions and answers

Can I drive with code P00AB?

Usually yes, because the module uses a default value. Engine performance and fuel economy may get worse, so diagnose it soon.

What does bank 2 mean in P00AB?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1. It applies to V-type and flat engines, or engines with separate intake paths.

How do I fix P00AB?

Start with the sensor connector and wiring, then test the sensor's resistance. Replacing the sensor or repairing a bad connection fixes it most of the time.

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.