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P2185 - OBD Trouble Code

OBD Code P2185 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor #2 Circuit High Input

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The trouble code P2185 can be elucidated as Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor #2 Circuit High Input. The engine coolant temperature sensor is a thermistor which is attached to a radiator. It is the powertrain control module which applies voltage of about 5 V to the engine coolant temperature sensor 2 signal circuit with a pull up resistor. When the engine coolant temperature would cool down, then the resistance of the ECT sensor 2 would increase and the powertrain control module would detect a high signal voltage. On the other hand when the engine coolant would warm up, then the resistance in the sensor would decrease. Then the powertrain control module would detect a less ECT2 signal voltage. If the ECT sensor 2 output voltage would be less than the value which has been set, then a malfunction would be detected by the powertrain control module and P2185 fault code would be stored.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P2185

Are you tensed because the P2185 fault code is flashing? We have got everything which you might need and at equitable prices. We promise that you will never regret your decision. Here is some more information about this fault code. This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. The engine coolant temperature sensor 2 is being monitored by the engine control module. This trouble code would be set by the ECM when the engine coolant temperature sensor 2 circuit would not be as per the specifications set by the manufacturer.


What causes this problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor #2 Circuit High Input?


  • Poor connection at the #2 ECT sensor
  • There might be an open in the ground circuit between the #2 ECT sensor and the powertrain control module
  • There might be a short in the voltage feed between the sensor and the PCM
  • There can be distorted PCM
  • Defective temperature sensor

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix Code P2185

  1. Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor - One major symptom of defective engine coolant temperature sensor is an overheating car engine. This can also cause engine misfiring. Take care of your car engine coolant temperature sensor and replace it if needed.
  2. Engine Control Module - Dead cells in batteries can cause a failure in the engine control module. Many times a battery is left in the rig long after a cell has died. This would affect the grounding in the car battery.
  3. Powertrain Control Module - If there are some faults in the PCM, then it may throw off the timing and fuel settings of the engine, which can negatively affect the performance. A flawed PCM may cause the vehicle to experience a reduction in fuel efficiency, power as well as acceleration.
  4. Electronic Control Unit - Do you know that the poor performance or unexplained drops in fuel economy or efficiency are often associated to onboard car computer problems, or defective ECU issues?
  5. Diagnostic Tools - Use factory grade diagnostic tools to resolve OBD code P2185 error. Buy new diagnostic tools and equipment for us.

Symptoms Of The OBD Error Code P2185

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.


Common Symptoms


  • Visibility in the check engine light
  • Inferior fuel economy
  • Issues related to no start condition
  • Automobile might start, but run very poorly, blowing black smoke, running irregularly and misfiring

How To Correct P2185 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor #2 Circuit High Input

Looking out for some ways with the help of which you can correct this fault code? Then you have arrived at the correct place. We are here to help you out, so you must check out the steps mentioned below as follows:


  • You must fix the leakage in the cooling system.
  • Make sure to mend the faulty ECT sensor.
  • Rehabilitate the defaults in the ECT connector or harness.
  • The malfunctioning PCM/ECM should be repaired or replaced as per the need.
  • Carefully adjust the faults in the thermostat.

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of ECT sensor, wiring, connectors, PCM, ECM, air fuel ratio sensor, battery connectors, spark plug, distributor coil, fuel injection system, auto ignition system and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P2185

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


  • After verifying the P2185 code with an OBD-II scanner, the mechanic should begin with a visual inspection of all electrical components.
  • Then a scan tool should be connected and mechanic should read the scan tool properly to conduct a quick diagnosis. The mechanic should compare the reading of the sensor 2 and then it should be matched with what the technician actually knows is true.
  • Now if the vehicle is cold, then the sensor should display how much and vice versa. There might be some cases where the sensor can be out of specification with the expectations of the PCM.
  • In this situation, it is important for the mechanic to remove the sensor carefully and then it should be bench tested.
  • A multimeter which can set to ohms and something to heat the sensor up with would be required for bench testing. Generally a tiny butane torch can also prove to be helpful.
  • The resistance of the sensor is measured with the help of a multimeter and then the torch is utilized to gently warm up the sensor. Keep one thing in mind that there should be proportionate change in resistance as the sensor is heated.
  • It all depends upon the manufacturer that every sensor would have unlike temperature to resistance curve. These details would be supplied by the manufacturer.

 Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P2185 Code


  • Many a times the mechanic might fail to inspect the coolant level. If the level of coolant is low, then it might lead to a lot of unpredictable symptoms as well as codes. Make sure that the level of coolant is full and the thermostat should be in good working condition before this code might be diagnosed. Just don’t forget that it is the cooling system which prevents your car engine from overheating.
  • When there are 2 sensors, it can be very confusing as to which is sensor 1 and which one is sensor 2. Due to this the mistake of replacing the wrong sensor might be made. It is not at all easy to determine which sensor is sensor 1. There are some manufacturers which might provide better details than others. Now if the mechanic is not sure which sensor is which, depending on their cost as well as difficulty to restore, then it is advisable to replace both of them.
  • Many a times the issue may not with the sensor, but there might be some defaults with connector or wiring to the sensor. It is advisable to take proper time and then check the connector as well as associated harness. Now if the sensor bench tests are up to the mark, then it is important to inspect for continuity through the harness to the powertrain control module.

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P2185

P2182 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit

P2183 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Range/Performance

P2184 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Low

P2186 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic