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P0542 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

OBD Code P0542 - Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit High

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This code would mean that the input voltage reading has been found by the powertrain control module from intake air heater circuit is not normal when compared with the manufacturer’s specifications. There can be some cases where it might take up to three drive cycle failures before the illumination of the check engine light.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P0542

Want to learn more about P0542 error code? This fault code would start triggering up if there is an issue with the intake air heater “A” circuit high. The error code P0542 can be identified as Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit High.

 

What causes this problem with the Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit High?

 

  • The air duct might be restricted
  • Defaults in the wiring
  • There can be some issues in the blower motor
  • Faults in the heater element relay
  • There can be some defects in the heater element
  • Defective temperature sensor
  • The connector might be damaged or corroded
  • Defaults in the powertrain control module

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P0542

  1. Electronic Control Unit - Do you remember when was the last time you got your car Electronic Control Unit checked up? A defective Electronic Control Unit can cause a lot of issues like displaying P0542 code.
  2. Powertrain Control Module - Are there some faults in your Powertrain Control Module? Don’t waste time and get them replaced or else P0542 code can turn up.
  3. Engine Control Module - Everything is fine with Electronic Control Unit and still P0542 code triggering? Then you must get your Engine Control Module checked.
  4. Air Intake Temperature Sensor - There can be some issues with the Air Intake temperature Sensor due to which you may see P0542 code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality Air Intake temperature Sensor online.
  5. Engine Wiring Connectors - A lot of issues can arise do to defective Engine Wiring Connectors. Did you just see P0542 code flashing? Now you know the reason why it is appearing. Get it inspected and replaced on time.

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P0542

Our main motive is to achieve customer satisfaction and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P0542 code by mentioning some major symptoms below:

 

Common Symptoms

 

  • Issue of longer than normal cranking time
  • Check engine light might start illuminating
  • Engine might not start at all
  • Problem of rough idle during cold temperatures
  • Car engine might start stalling

How To Correct P0542 Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit High

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0542:

 

  • Replace the defective heater element
  • If there are some faults in the temperature sensor, then it should be replaced
  • Replacing the heater element relay
  • Make sure to clean corrosion from connectors
  • Repair or replace the wiring
  • The faulty air ducts should be replaced
  • Carefully restore the blower motor
  • The malfunctioning powertrain control module should be replaced

 

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Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P0542

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

 

The intake air heating circuit might not work automatically if the ambient air or engine temperature is above the limit set by the manufacturer. The circuit should activate if it is commanded "ON" with a scanner, or if power is applied manually. Here are some basic steps:

 

  • Carefully check the heater element, is it turning "ON"
  • Inspect the blower motor, is it turning "ON"
  • Visually inspect the circuit connections and wiring
  • The condition of the air ducts for obvious defects should be visually inspected
  • You must check the electrical connections for security and corrosion

 

Have A Look At Some Advanced Steps

 

  • Advanced steps become very vehicle specific and require the appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately
  • These procedures require a digital multimeter and the specific technical references for the vehicle
  • Voltage requirements will differ based of the specific year, model and the diesel engine in the vehicle

 

Specific Checks

 

  • On applications that have mass airflow sensors, the intake air temperature sensor is incorporated into the sensor body
  • Consult technical data to determine the correct pins associated with the sensor
  • Perform specific checks using the troubleshooting guidelines for the specific vehicle using the technical manual or online reference material
  • These steps will guide you through the process of checking the power and ground to each component within the intake air heater circuit in the proper sequence
  • If the voltage is correct to a component that is not functioning, that component is most likely defective and requires replacement
  • If power is not available to operate the circuit, continuity checks may be needed to identify faulty wiring or components

 

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0542 Code

 

  • A common mistake of not reconnecting the intake air temperatures while replacing an air filter or simply removing the air cleaner box to repair it
  • This can be a reason why the P0542 code appears, but the driver might believe that the problem is related to the air filter rather than the sensors

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0542

P0540 - Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit

P0541 - Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit Low

P0543 - Intake Air Heater "A" Circuit Open