P0183 medium Severity

P0183: Fuel Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit High Input

May cause reduced fuel economy, rough idle, hard starting or reduced performance, but vehicle may remain drivable

Overview

P0183 indicates a high voltage or high signal from the fuel temperature sensor A circuit detected by the PCM/ECM, often due to sensor, wiring, or circuit faults.

Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Rough or uneven idle
  • Reduced engine performance
  • Hard starting

Most Common Causes

Faulty fuel temperature sensor high

Sensor may send abnormally high voltage due to internal failure or thermistor shorted/failed.

Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors high

Open, short, corrosion, or poor connector seating can cause high signals to PCM.

Short to voltage in sensor circuit medium

Wiring harness may contact power supply or be damaged near fuel tank or pump assembly.

PCM/ECM input circuit fault low

Rare internal ECM hardware or calibration fault causing misinterpretation of normal signals.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Use an OBD-II scanner to read and confirm the P0183 code and record freeze-frame data.
    Expected: Code P0183 present and no conflicting codes masking sensor circuit faults.
    Interpretation: Confirms active high input detection from fuel temperature sensor circuit.
  2. Visually inspect the fuel temperature sensor and wiring harness for damage, corrosion or loose connections.
    Expected: No visible damage, corrosion or disconnected terminals.
    Interpretation: Visible issues suggest circuit faults responsible for high voltage readings.
  3. With ignition ON, measure voltage at the sensor connector using a multimeter.
    Expected: Voltage within manufacturer specification (typically ~0.5–4.5V range).
    Interpretation: Voltage above expected range supports high input fault; normal value suggests wiring or ECM issues.
  4. Test sensor resistance with engine off and compare to service manual values.
    Expected: Resistance changes consistent with temperature.
    Interpretation: Out-of-range resistance indicates a faulty sensor.
  5. Check continuity and shorts in wiring harness between sensor and PCM.
    Expected: Continuous path with no shorts to power or ground.
    Interpretation: Breaks or shorts indicate wiring repair required.

Repair Solutions

Replace fuel temperature sensor medium
Estimated Cost: $100 - $500

Cost varies by vehicle and whether tank must be dropped; OEM sensors recommended.

Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors medium
Estimated Cost: $50 - $300

Includes connectors, harness repair, and corrosion cleaning.

PCM/ECM reprogramming or replacement hard
Estimated Cost: $500 - $1200

Only after sensor and wiring are confirmed good.

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

  • Confusing fuel temperature sensor issue with intake air or coolant temperature sensor faults
  • Replacing sensor without testing wiring leading to recurring codes
  • Assuming high fuel temperature rather than circuit fault

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the P0183 code mean?

Fuel Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit High Input is the standard definition for P0183. This diagnostic code is triggered when the ECU detects a problem in the Fuel System.

Reflecting on severity: How bad is P0183?

With a severity level of medium, may cause reduced fuel economy, rough idle, hard starting or reduced performance, but vehicle may remain drivable

How do I know if I have code P0183?

Drivers often report: Check Engine Light illuminated, Poor fuel economy, Rough or uneven idle when this code is present.

Common triggers for the P0183 error

This code is frequently triggered by: Faulty fuel temperature sensor, Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors, Short to voltage in sensor circuit.

How much does it cost to fix P0183?

The cost varies significantly based on the root cause. For example, replacing a Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors typically costs between $50 and $300, while fixing a PCM/ECM reprogramming or replacement can range from $500 to $1200.

Is the P0183 code specific to Nissan?

P0183 is not specific to any one brand. It can appear on Ford, Dodge, Toyota, Honda, Jeep, and other vehicles.

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or ask a question about this code.

Be the first to share your experience with P0183!