AutoFixDB - Free OBD-II diagnostic trouble code lookup. Find causes, symptoms, diagnostic steps and repair solutions.

Overview

OBD‑II DTC P0182 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a low voltage signal from the fuel temperature sensor A circuit, suggesting wiring issues, sensor failure, or PCM faults; affects fuel system monitoring and engine management.

Common Symptoms

Check engine light illuminated
Reduced fuel efficiency
Rough idle or hesitation
Hard or rough starting

Most Common Causes

Faulty fuel temperature sensor high

Low voltage signal from sensor often due to internal failure.

Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors in sensor circuit high

Open circuits or shorts to ground reduce expected voltage, triggering code.

Poor ground connection medium

High resistance ground can mimic low voltage input signal.

ECM/PCM internal input circuit failure medium

Rare but documented case when wiring and sensor test good.

ECM software calibration error low

Software mis‑interpretation of sensor voltage possible after updates.

Diagnostic Steps

Retrieve P0182 and any related codes using an OBD‑II scan tool

Expected: P0182 present with fuel sensor voltage data

Interpretation: Confirms initial fault and gathers freeze frame data for conditions.
Visual inspection of fuel temperature sensor wiring and connector

Expected: Check for damage, corrosion, loose pins

Interpretation: Wiring/connectors common cause if abnormal.
Measure sensor voltage signal with ignition on

Expected: Voltage within manufacturer spec (e.g., ~0.5–4.5 V)

Interpretation: Consistently low voltage confirms circuit low condition.
Check sensor ground and continuity to PCM

Expected: Low resistance ground and continuity

Interpretation: High resistance indicates ground/wire fault.
Test or replace fuel temperature sensor if wiring good

Expected: Correct resistance/response after replacement

Interpretation: Sensor failure confirmed if code clears.
Evaluate ECM/PCM input circuit if all else checks good

Expected: Reference voltage at PCM terminal

Interpretation: No voltage suggests internal module fault.

Repair Solutions

Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors in fuel temperature sensor circuit medium

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200

Repair harness, clean connectors, secure grounds.

Replace fuel temperature sensor easy

Estimated Cost: $30 - $150

Typical resolution when sensor fails.

Repair or replace ECM/PCM if internal circuit faulty hard

Estimated Cost: $800 - $1500

Rare; confirm all external causes first.

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

Assuming fuel pressure sensor fault instead of fuel temperature sensor circuit

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of the P0182 engine code?

When your OBD-II scanner reads P0182, it means: Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input. This code is related to the vehicle's Fuel System.

Can P0182 cause engine damage?

This is a medium priority issue. Check engine light illumination, potential rough idle, reduced fuel economy, possible difficulty starting

What happens when the P0182 code is active?

Drivers often report: Check engine light illuminated, Reduced fuel efficiency, Rough idle or hesitation when this code is present.

What parts fail when P0182 is set?

The most common causes are: Faulty fuel temperature sensor, Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors in sensor circuit, Poor ground connection.

How much does it cost to fix P0182?

Repair costs depend on the specific failure. A simple Replace fuel temperature sensor replacement is relatively affordable ($30-$150), whereas a Repair or replace ECM/PCM if internal circuit faulty repair is more expensive, potentially reaching $1500.

Is the P0182 code specific to Dodge?

The P0182 code is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to almost all makes and models, such as Honda, Toyota, VW, Ford, and Chevy.

P0182: Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input