A P0113 engine code warns the driver that their air intake temperature circuitry has received too much power and may overheat. If left unchecked, this issue can cause abnormal fuel efficiency, difficulty cold-starting, and engine damage.

In the world of automotive repairs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are valuable tools for identifying engine troubles. While an OBD-II code reader can explain what a code means—helping you pinpoint the source—you’ll often need professional help when faced with a severe issue.

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What does the engine code P0113 mean?

Definition: Intake air temperature high input

A P0113 code means too much power has been sent to your vehicle’s intake air temperature (IAT) sensor. This component works with your engine’s powertrain control module (PCM) to maintain optimal performance despite fluctuating temperatures.

How much will it cost to fix?

While labor and diagnosis rates vary by shop, repair should cost between $75-$150 per hour for about two hours.

What can cause the P0113 engine code?

A P0113 engine code usually results from an overheated air intake sensor, which receives power from your PCM and helps it to regulate airflow in your vehicle.

High resistance signals cooler air temperatures to the PCM, while low resistance means the air intake is too hot and will trigger a P0113 code.

Excess heat can result from numerous problems with your air intake system. Here are a few reasons you may be experiencing a P0113 code:

Faulty intake air temperature (IAT) sensor

Faulty powertrain control module (PCM)

Intake air temperature sensor harness is open or shorted

Intake air temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection

P0113 error codes are also commonly caused by dirty air filters, where debris can limit airflow and overheat the system. You can fix this problem by thoroughly cleaning the air filter or installing a replacement air filter.

MORE:

The cold truth about warming your car up in the winter

Common symptoms of the P0113 engine code

The obvious symptom of this code is your check engine light—which will switch on after the issue occurs. You should also watch out for the following:

Needing multiple attempts to start in cold temperatures

Irregular fuel efficiency

Engine misfiring

A P0113 code can affect fuel usage in different ways: high and low consumption. If you notice a black coating around your spark plugs, your vehicle is likely using more fuel than it needs. Unusually clean spark plugs mean lower fuel consumption—and slower pickup.

How serious is the P0113 engine code?

While it can require an expensive fix, code P0113 should never be ignored. When your air intake receives too much power, it can overheat—essentially cooking the air temperature sensors. If left unchecked, an overheated air intake can damage other engine parts.

To prevent further damage, drivers should have this code looked at as soon as their

check engine light comes on

Can I fix the P0113 engine code myself?

Depending on the problem’s source, you may be able to fix a P0113 code on your own.

In any case, you’ll need to figure out if a faulty sensor has caused the code. Here’s how:

Run your vehicle until the engine is warm

Use an infrared thermometer to compare the temperature or your air intake to the engine coolant

If your air intake temperature is lower than the coolant, you have a problem with the IAT sensor. Inspect the IAT sensor and look for damaged, broken, or corroded wiring. If it’s severely damaged, the sensor may need replacement.

A similar or slightly higher reading temperature than your coolant means the IAT is working fine—and the problem lies elsewhere. The next step is to check your air filter, which will likely need cleaning or changing.

Replacing an air filter

Before replacing more expensive parts, you should check if a new air filter makes any difference. Here’s how you can do it at home:

Check to see if the air filter appears dirty

Identify the correct filter and order a replacement

Change the air filter

Clean the MAF sensor using a dry microfiber towel

Reset the code

Test-drive the vehicle

If the code reappears or you continue to experience issues when driving, you may need to replace the MAF sensor or PCM.

MORE:

My check engine light is on—what does it mean?

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