What Is the P0198 Code?
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The P0198 code, a generic powertrain code, indicates “Engine Oil Temperature Sensor High.” This doesn’t mean that the oil engine temperature is impacted. Instead, it means the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a voltage in the Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) sensor circuit that is higher than the expected return voltage signal from the reference voltage. This usually means that the circuit is open. While the oil temperature sensor signal issue doesn’t immediately mean that there’s a problem with temperature increases, the longer the engine oil temperature input is absent, the more likely you’ll experience these issues.
You may also be interested in P0197 Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) Sensor Circuit Low.
More About Error Code P0198
The EOT sensor is an important part of your vehicle’s function. The PCM uses the signal from the EOT sensor to calculate several critical functions, including injection timing and glow plug operation. It also uses this sensor to calculate fuel quality, which your vehicle needs to know for more efficient function. Additionally, diesel engines use compression to ignite fuel charges. If the oil temperature is low, the ECM will command the glow plugs to activate, warming the combustion chamber so that fuel can ignite. While most common in diesel engine vehicles, you can also find the EOT sensor in some gasoline engines. This code indicates that the sensor signal for the EOT sensor is too high.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0198 Code?
The P0198 error code doesn’t frequently have many symptoms, especially at the beginning. You’ll likely only see the check engine light turn on, indicating that the PCM has noticed a problem. Over time, however, you might see other symptoms pop up, including various drivability symptoms, as the engine oil temperature sensor is an important part of multiple processes in the vehicle.
What Are Some Causes of a P0198 Code?
Code P0198 usually involves a faulty electrical connection in the wiring. This may include loose connections, corroded connector pins, problems in the temperature sensor harness, and more. However, there may also be a larger problem with the engine cooling system overall. You’ll likely see other trouble codes or a faulty engine oil temperature sensor if this occurs. Sometimes, sensor malfunctions can also happen from a low oil level. In some extremely rare cases, you might see this code due to a faulty engine PCM, which is uncommon.
How Serious Is the P0198 Code?
This is a moderate to severe code. Even though you likely won’t experience any drivability symptoms for the P0198 code initially, the EOT sensor helps the vehicle function smoothly. It’s an important part of a vehicle that works well. The longer you allow the P0198 code to stay active in your vehicle, the more likely you’ll start experiencing secondary problems. Getting an expert to look at your vehicle when you see the P0198 code is always a good idea.
Can I Still Drive with a P0198 Code?
You can drive for a short period of time with the P0198 code active. It won’t usually impact your drivability until it’s been active for a while. This means it’s almost always safe to drive home and to the repair shop, even if your vehicle indicates a P0198 code. However, it’s not safe to just ignore the code. If you don’t fix this code, it will inevitably lead to other problems.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0198 Code?
The P0198 diagnostic process is sometimes easy. For example, if the problem is a visible corrosion issue, you just have to replace the wires that have corroded, and the problem is fixed. However, diagnosis may be more difficult if the problem isn’t visible. You may need to go through other systems to see where the problem is and what’s truly wrong. If you’re not a strong DIYer or you’ve gone through the first few steps with no luck, an expert can help you figure out the problem.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0198 Code?
The inspection process for the P0198 code is similar to the diagnostic process. If it’s an obvious problem, inspection might be extremely easy. However, it might be much more difficult if it’s less obvious or the problem is in an unexpected location. As always, if you have a problem with determining the underlying issue or you’re uncertain about whether you’re approaching the code correctly, contact an expert for help.
Need Additional Help with Your P0198 Code?
The P0198 code is a type of code that doesn’t seem like a big problem initially but can quickly spiral out of control. If you need assistance with this code, plenty of experts can safely determine the problem and help you solve it.
To start, you should find an auto repair shop in your area. Many local repair shops can help you with the problem, whether it’s extremely simple to fix or more complex.
Additionally, your scan tool may show other codes alongside the P0198 code, such as coolant temperature codes or codes relating to the correct engine temperature. In that case, you’ll also need to check these codes for diagnostic purposes. At KBB.com, you can find an OBD-II database that will give you more insight into the definitions and solutions for these codes.
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