Fuel and air

P0182 — Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input

Severity: low Safe to drive

What P0182 means

The engine control module detected a voltage from the fuel temperature sensor that is lower than expected. The sensor is a thermistor, and the module uses its signal to adjust fueling for fuel temperature and density. A low reading usually points to a signal wire shorted to ground or a failed sensor.

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Rough idle or hesitation
  • Hard or long cranking, especially when hot
  • Skewed fuel trims

Possible causes

  1. Failed fuel temperature sensor
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the sensor
  3. Signal wire shorted to ground
  4. Poor ground connection
  5. Internal PCM input circuit fault
  6. PCM software calibration issue (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for codes and freeze frame data, clear the code and see if it returns
  2. Check the fuel temperature reading in live data; an unrealistic or stuck value points to the circuit or sensor
  3. Inspect the sensor connector and harness for chafing, melting, moisture and corrosion
  4. Unplug the sensor: if the scan tool reading goes to the opposite extreme, the sensor is likely bad
  5. Measure sensor resistance and compare it to the spec for that engine
  6. Check for 5 V reference and a good ground at the connector
  7. Test the signal wire for a short to ground or an open circuit
  8. If wiring and sensor are fine, check the PCM and look for software updates

Common fixes

  • Repair the wiring or replace the damaged connector
  • Replace the fuel temperature sensor
  • Restore the ground connection
  • Repair, replace or reflash the PCM if confirmed faulty

Questions and answers

What does P0182 mean?

It means the fuel temperature sensor A circuit is reporting a low signal. The PCM sees voltage below normal, most often from a short to ground or a bad sensor.

Can I drive with code P0182?

Usually yes, but you may notice worse fuel economy and rougher running. Get it diagnosed soon.

How do I fix P0182?

Start by inspecting the sensor connector and wiring, then test the sensor itself. Consider the PCM only after ruling out everything else.

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.