What Is the P0197 Code?
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The P0197 code definition is “Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low.” In some vehicles, Engine Oil Temperature may be defined as EOT. This generic powertrain code means that the sensor circuit itself is not functioning properly, not necessarily that the engine oil temperature is out of normal range. This code simply indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has received an incorrect signal from the sensor, indicating that there’s an issue with your vehicle’s ability to identify the oil temperature.
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More About the P0197 Code
It’s important that your vehicle is able to keep the engine oil temperature at the correct level. If the engine oil is too cold, it won’t be able to flow properly, which can leave various engine parts unlubricated, leading to excessive friction. If it’s too hot, especially over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, the oil will run especially thin. This can cause poor film strength, which means the oil won’t be strong enough to actually perform its lubricant duties, leading to increased internal resistance. Diagnostic code P0197 indicates that the sensor that reads the oil temperature has malfunctioned, which means the PCM might not be able to accurately determine the typical engine oil temperature.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0197 Code?
Most of the time, the P0197 code doesn’t have any symptoms outside of an illuminated check engine light, although in some vehicles, you may see an oil temperature warning light in addition to the check engine light. That’s because this code, by itself, only indicates a problem with your engine oil temperature sensor. Suppose your engine oil becomes too hot. In that case, other codes may be stored, especially because engine oil overheating will often happen in tandem with general engine temperature increases, which can also cause engine coolant temperature codes and an increase in your engine temperature gauge. If there are other codes present, you might see other symptoms.
What Are Some Causes of a P0197 Code?
Oftentimes, the P0197 engine code just has to do with a faulty engine oil temperature sensor; it’s common for the solution to this code to be simply replacing the EOT sensor or checking the oil temperature sensor connector wiring. However, if the engine oil temperature sensor is still working or you’ve replaced the sensor with no fix, there could also be issues with your engine cooling system. In very rare cases, this code can also be due to a faulty PCM.
How Serious Is the P0197 Code?
The P0197 code is pretty serious, primarily because without this EOT sensor, there’s no way for your engine to determine the temperature of the engine oil. Additionally, in some cases, these codes can indicate an engine overheating condition, which is definitely something you need to address as soon as possible. Even though there are rarely any symptoms, especially with just the P0197 code, it’s still an important code to address.
Can I Still Drive with a P0197 Code?
You can usually physically drive with the P0197 code active; this code rarely leads to an issue like Limp Home Mode or Limp Mode, as the code by itself may not end up creating a severe issue. However, it’s not a great idea to continue to drive when this code is active. If you do, the inability to maintain proper cooling system operation could lead to a more serious issue — problems with oil flow can easily create excessive friction, which could permanently damage pieces of your vehicle.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0197 Code?
The diagnosis process of the P0197 code can sometimes be difficult. In certain situations, it may just be that your vehicle’s oil temperature sensor isn’t working correctly, but this isn’t the case in every situation. In other cases, it may be that there’s a problem with your vehicle’s engine cooling system, which is a much more difficult fix. You need to know how to rule out problems with your engine cooling system and determine the actual issue, which may require access to sensor signal voltage, reference voltage, oil temperature sensor data, and more. Plus, diagnostic purposes often require access to technical service bulletins and other tools that many DIYers don’t have access to. That’s why an expert is often the better choice.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0197 Code?
Inspecting the P0197 code can be just as difficult as diagnosing it. If you don’t know much about your engine oil temperature sensor, you may not know how to inspect the components within your engine that could contribute to it. The necessary repair steps will vary depending on other sensor data parameters and your vehicle’s make and model. If you’re planning to handle the P0197 engine code on your own, you need to know a lot about your engine cooling system. If you don’t, it’s best to talk to a professional for quick answers instead.
Need Additional Help with Your P0197 Code?
If you’re looking for help with the P0197 diagnostic trouble code, there’s plenty of help available — an expert can help you get your vehicle ready to go quickly, easily, and effectively.
Your first step when seeking assistance with your P0197 code should be to find a local auto repair shop. When you can find a local shop, you’ll be able to find a fix more easily — you won’t need to go out of your way too far to fix the problem.
The OBD-II database at KBB.com can also be an extremely helpful tool for DIYers. Especially if you’re seeing more than one code on your scan tool, the OBD-II database can help you understand what these codes mean and what services you may be looking for.
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