The air intake temperature sensor (IAT) is either located within the air filter duct hose or integrated into some vehicles’ mass airflow sensor (MAF). Using a thermistor, this sensor measures the temperature of the intake air.
Honda’s engine management computer detects P0113 as an OBDII error code when it detects a problem with the Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor, specifically a High Input Problem. The IAT sensor measures air temperature and density to achieve an optimal air/fuel mixture.
The computer throws P0113 when the Intake Air Temperature Sensor sees 4.91 volts for more than half a second. The P0113 is only thrown if there is excessive voltage, not if there are irregularities in the voltage.
P0113 Honda Meaning
During air intake temperature monitoring, a steady 5-volt current is sent from your car’s powertrain control module (PCM). When the temperature rises, the thermistor’s resistance decreases, while when the temperature drops, it becomes more resistant.
Temperature determines the resistance in the thermistor, which determines the voltage the PCM receives as feedback. For example, the thermistor will resist if the air intake temperature is normal, and the PCM feedback voltage will be below five volts.
The PCM will trigger code P0113 if the feedback voltage is at 5 volts, which means there is low resistance in the air intake.
Honda P0113 Symptoms
It is possible to experience symptoms associated with P0113. Issues with IAT sensors can vary depending on the season. For example, your car’s engine may have difficulty starting when it’s cold outside.
The air temperature is lower when there is a lean condition. P0113/IAT issues typically cause the following symptoms:
- Fuel Efficiency Is Decreased
As long as the engine runs lean, it will not be able to produce the optimal power for good fuel economy due to poor power.
- Lean Condition
P0113 will result in a lean engine. If your engine is running lean, you shouldn’t drive around for a long time.
It is recommended that you have it repaired as soon as possible. However, the engine shouldn’t leave you stranded once it’s warmed up.
- Having A Difficult Start
As a result of the IAT issue, the air-fuel mixture may be leaner, which can cause the engine to have difficulty starting. In cold weather, the engine requires more choke to start, causing this problem to be magnified.
- Start-Up Problems In Cold Temperatures
A malfunctioning air intake system, leading to overheating, will prevent the car from balancing its engine’s air-to-fuel ratio. In this case, it refers to the ignition system’s efficiency. As a result, starting the engine may require multiple attempts.
- Misfires In Engines
A misfire occurs when the engine is unable to complete its entire combustion cycle, meaning that it skips steps such as intake, compression, combustion and power stroke, and/or exhaust.
- The Service Engine Soon Light Is On
It is common for the service engine light to be the only symptom of P0113.
Code P0113 Honda: What Are The Possible Causes?
There are several reasons why engine code P0113 may occur, including faulty sensors or wiring. Follow the steps below for proper diagnosis if you want to fix code P0113 at home without spending money on parts.
It is not recommended for beginners to attempt this diagnosis and repair because it is intermediate level. In addition, inexperienced DIYers may have trouble diagnosing the problem using a code sensor, which requires more specialized equipment.
Diagnosing The Code P0113
The IAT sensor is usually replaced after this trouble code is detected. However, replacing the sensor immediately is often a mistake. Usually, there will be a problem with the wiring.
The wiring around the sensor should be checked for obvious signs of damage, and you should make sure that it is even plugged in. Then, make sure it receives the correct voltage using a multimeter.
You can find out a lot about what is causing the P0113 with a good scan tool. The IAT sensor will most likely need to be replaced if you have examined the harness and found no obvious problems.
There is a possibility that your IAT sensor needs to be cleaned, adjusted, or replaced. The most common cause of a P0113 code is a faulty IAT sensor. P0113 error codes are usually caused by dirty air filters.
Air intake systems have to work harder or receive inadequate airflow if their air filters are dirty enough to hinder airflow. As a result, the air intake temperature will be higher in both cases.
The following are some of the most common causes of P0113, presented (somewhat) in order of likelihood:
- An error occurred in the PCM.
- Intake manifold backfiring has occurred. Sensors can be fried/contaminated by this process.
- There is a damage/short in the wiring harness
- The IAT is good, but it has been contaminated by oil
- There is a problem with the IAT, and it needs to be replaced
What Is The Fix For The P0113 Honda Code?
Taking a temperature reading is your first step in determining whether the sensor is bad, or the intake is too hot. Let the engine warm up before starting the vehicle. Then, make sure the air intake and engine coolant are at the right temperature by using an infrared thermometer.
Your sensor is fine if they are the same temperature or if the air intake temperature is higher than the exhaust temperature. Check the wiring to the IAT sensor and clean the connections; if the air intake temperature is lower than the coolant temperature, then clear the error code and drive the vehicle.
Replace the IAT sensor if the code reappears. The next step is to check your air filter to see if your sensor is working correctly. It needs to be cleaned, the error code cleared, and the vehicle is driven if it appears dirty. It may be necessary to replace your MAF sensor or PCM if the code returns after changing your air filter.
How Much Does It Cost To Diagnose Honda Code P0113?
There are many causes of P0113, ranging from faulty wiring to bad sensors. However, without properly diagnosing the problem, it’s impossible to provide an accurate estimate.
Depending on the underlying problem, one or more of these repairs may be needed for error code P0113. Therefore, in addition to the cost of the relevant parts, the estimated cost of each possible repair includes the cost of labor.
- Diagnosis of electrical systems cost between $88 and $111
- Sensors for IAT range from 87 to 96 dollars
Most shops will begin by spending an hour diagnosing your specific issue if you bring your car in for a diagnosis. A typical price range for this is $75-$150, depending on the labor rate at the shop.
If you have them perform the repair for you, most shops will charge you this diagnosis fee. An accurate estimate of repairs for your P0113 code can then be given by a shop.
Is Code P0113 A Serious Error?
The code P0113 itself is considered a common issue. You and your vehicle are not at immediate risk from the two most common causes of this code. Nevertheless, if the problem isn’t addressed, it could worsen.
The air-to-fuel ratio in your vehicle can be affected by a high air intake temperature, faulty MAF sensor, or PCM. This can lead to other parts of the engine being damaged.
It is, therefore, important to pay attention to code P0113 as soon as possible, even though it is not serious enough to warrant immediate attention.
The Bottom Line
Even though the P0113 code won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road, you should not ignore it, as it can be very dangerous. When you let your Honda run lean for too long of a period, the engine will develop other problems as a result of being run lean for too long a time.
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