P0196 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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P0196 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) Sensor low". This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles that have an engine oil temperature sensor. It indicates that the PCM has received a signal from the engine oil temperature sensor that the engine is overheating. Engine Oil Temperature Sensor informs the powertrain control module (PCM) the temperature of the engine oil. If the PCM discover an incorrect signal from the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor, it will set code P0196.

OBD-II Code P0196 is defined as a Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance. It means that there is a problem with the circuits of the Engine Oil Temperature system. The engine control module (ECM) uses the engine oil temperature (EOT) sensor to monitor oil temperature. The EOT signal is also utilized by the instrument cluster if the vehicle is equipped with an oil temperature gauge or oil temperature warning light. If the ECM detects a problem with the EOT signal, it will set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) in system memory and illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).

Any temperature reading that exceeds a predetermined number of degrees will cause a code P0196 to be stored in the PCM.

What causes this problem Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance?

• Open or shorted electrical circuits
• Engine oil temperature sensor failure
• Issues with engine cooling system
• Wiring issues
• PCM failure

1. Engine Oil Temperature Sensor - The oil temperature sensor is an important piece to know when your oil is warmed up when working properly. Malfunctioned engine oil temperature sensor is the main cause for storing this trouble code. Replace the faulty one as soon as possible.
2. Thermostat - It is a device to detect temperature changes for the purpose of maintaining the temperature of an enclosed area essentially constant. In a system including relays, valves, switches, etc., the thermostat generates signals, usually electrical, when the temperature exceeds or falls below the desired value. If it is faulty then it will provide you wrong information, so repair or replace it as required once you find it faulty.
3. Electrical Connector - Loose, corroded or broken connectors can become the main reason for storing any trouble code. Replace them immediately if you discover them damaged.
4. Engine Control Module - The Engine Control Module (also called the Powertrain Control Module or PCM) is the brains of the engine management system. It controls the fuel mixture, ignition timing, variable cam timing and emissions control. If you want your vehicle to run smoothly, make sure your engine control module is running smoothly.

Below mentioned are some common symptoms for the OBD code P0196. If you discover any of them then take your vehicle to a reputed repair facility and get it rectified to avoid any major issue in future.

• Lack of cabin heat
• Low oil level
• Engine oil sludge
• Overheating due to coolant problem
• Malfunction indicator lamp

Trouble code P0196 should be addressed at earliest because it is an alert to the driver about the conditions that could severely damage the motor. To avoid the possibility of engine damage this code has to be rectified on time. Following repairs or replacements may help you to fix this code:

• Inspect the engine oil temperature sensor carefully and replace it if found faulty.
• Check the wiring and connections, repair or replace the damaged one as required.
• Check thoroughly the engine oil temperature sensor connector; replace it if you discover it frayed.

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To avoid any mistakes while diagnosing this code, it is always recommended to have your vehicle diagnosed with the help of qualified technician. Steps to diagnose this code are as follows:

• Check electrical connectors and wire harness for obvious damage. Repair as necessary.
• Check that the engine is heating up properly and the thermostat is opening and closing properly. If the thermostat is stuck open, you will not get any cabin heating and the engine will not reach operating temperature.
• If the system wiring, connectors, and components appear to be in normal working order, connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector and record all stored trouble codes and freeze frame data
• After the codes are cleared, operate the vehicle to see if the code returns.
• Use a scan tool to monitor the engine oil temperature sensor data parameter.
• Disconnect the engine oil temperature sensor connector. Next, measure the resistance between the two sensor terminals using a digital multimeter set to ohms. Start the engine and watch the meter value; the values should decrease smoothly as the engine warms up. If engine temperature increases but EOT resistance does not decrease, the sensor is faulty and should be replaced.
• Check the circuits carefully and do the necessary repairs.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0196 Code

The most common mistake while diagnosing the P0196 code is start replacing the components without thoroughly diagnosing them. Usually people replace engine oil temperature sensor immediately when this code occurs wherein the actual problem is with some other part.