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Error Code P0180: What It Means & What To Do?

OBD Code P0180 - Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Malfunction

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The P0180 fault code can be described as fuel temperature sensor ‘A’ circuit malfunction. This fault code can start appearing by a malfunctioning fuel temperature sensor ‘A’. This would indicate that the sensor is not within specification or that the fuel temperature or fuel rail is extremely hot or cold.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P0180

The fuel temperature which is inside the fuel tank is detected with the help of fuel tank temperature. The voltage signal is modified by the sensor from the engine control module. The modified signal would return to the engine control module as the fuel temperature input. A thermistor is used by the sensor which is sensitive to the change in the temperature.The electrical resistance of the thermistor would start decreasing with an increase in the temperature.


What causes this problem with the Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Malfunction?


  • There can be some defects in the fuel temperature/consumption sensor "A"
  • A bad ambient temperature sensor
  • The intake air temperature sensor might appear to be faulty
  • Issue of open, shorted, or damaged wiring or connectors
  • A pcm programming error

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P0180

  1. Fuel Temperature Sensor - Faulty/damaged Fuel Temperature Sensor can be a reason why P0180 fault code is triggering. Thus, it is important to replace it immediately.
  2. Oil Pressure Sensor - Problematic Oil Pressure sensor would give rise to P0180 trouble code. Replace faulty Oil Pressure sensor immediately.
  3. Powertrain Control Module - Faulty Powertrain Control Module can cause a lot of issues. Thus, replace it immediately.
  4. Diagnostic Tools - Willing to purchase new diagnostic tools? Visit us and buy best quality auto diagnostic tools online!

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P0180

Our main motive is to achieve customer satisfaction and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P0180 code by mentioning some major symptoms below:


Common Symptoms


  • The car won’t be able to start if the fuel is frozen from extreme cold, or if there is water in the fuel
  • The vehicle will not start, or may lose power and stall, if the fuel gets too hot and boils off
  • Erratic sensor readings can cause excessive additives in the fuel and cause the fuel to boil off at lower temperatures, causing the sensor to malfunction

How To Correct P0180 Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Malfunction

We have listed out some ways which would help you to correct the occurrence of OBD Code P0180. They are mentioned here as follows:


  • You must test the fuel temperature sensor and replacing it if it is out of specifications
  • A defective connector or wiring to the sensor should be carefully repaired or replaced
  • Make sure that you replace the diesel fuel heater assembly with the temperature sensor

However, if you face any issue then we have stocked a wide range of best priced coolant temperature sensor, fuel tank pressure sensor, fuel sensor and more to help you out in fixing your car.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P0180

A digital voltmeter should be used as well as an electrical wiring diagram, and a repair manual which would help in diagnosing the troubles in the FTS circuit and FTS.


The FTS is situated in the fuel tank, as part of the fuel sending unit, or practically anywhere else, before the fuel injectors, in the fuel system. If you want to know the exact location of the FTS, then you must check the manual carefully


It all depend upon the location of the ECM and FTS you may have to work to get at their connectors, such as if located in the fuel tank under the seat. One can start this diagnosis from the ECM or from the FTS, depending on which is easier to access.


  • You must scan the codes and documents the freeze frame data, then clears the codes to verify code returns
  • Then do a visual check of all the wiring and connections to the sensor, checking for breaks in the wiring or loose connections
  • The connection to the sensor should be disconnected and checks to see if the sensor is testing within specifications
  • A fuel sample is taken to compare the actual temperature of fuel to the sensor input
  • The diesel fuel heater should be tested for proper operation to make sure it is working to heat the fuel, without overheating the fuel

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0180 Code


Here are some simple guidelines which would help you to prevent misdiagnosis:


  • A visual check for the connections should be performed to be sure that they are in a good contact with the fuel heater as well as fuel temperature sensor
  • The fuel should be checked for excessive additives which can cause malfunctioning of the sensors

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0180

P0181 - Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

P0182 - Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input

P0183 - Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit High Input

P0184 - Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Intermittent