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DTC codes / P00xx · Fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls / P007B

P007BCharge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1

P007B indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an out-of-range or performance fault in the charge air cooler temperature (CACT) sensor circuit for bank 1. The PCM compares the sensor signal against expected values during key-on and running conditions, and when the voltage or inferred temperature falls outside the calibrated window for a set time, it stores this code and illuminates the check engine light.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaFuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms.
  • Reduced engine power or limp mode under heavy load or during regeneration.
  • Poor fuel economy or increased turbo lag due to incorrect charge air temperature readings.
  • Intermittent rough running or hesitation during acceleration.
  • In rare cases, a noticeable loss of power accompanied by a burning smell from overheated intake air.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty charge air cooler temperature sensor or its internal thermistor drift.
  2. Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring or connector at the sensor or PCM.
  3. Charge air cooler (intercooler) restriction, such as debris, oil sludge, or internal blockage.
  4. Air leaks or boost leaks in the charge air cooler piping or hoses.
  5. Failed or stuck-open charge air cooler bypass valve or thermostat (where equipped).
  6. PCM software calibration issue or internal driver fault (less common).
  7. Extreme ambient temperature conditions exceeding sensor calibration range (rare).

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Perform a visual inspection of the CACT sensor, its connector, and the charge air cooler piping for obvious damage or leaks.
  2. Use a scan tool to read live data from the CACT sensor and compare it to ambient and intake air temperature sensors after a cold soak.
  3. Check the sensor's resistance or voltage output against the manufacturer's specification and verify the reference voltage and ground at the connector.
  4. Inspect the charge air cooler for physical restrictions or oil contamination and clean or replace as needed.
  5. Perform a smoke test or pressure test on the charge air cooler system to identify leaks.
  6. If the sensor and wiring test good, check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or PCM software updates related to the CACT circuit.
  7. Replace the CACT sensor only after confirming the circuit integrity and ruling out other causes, then clear codes and verify the repair.

Before replacing the charge air cooler sensor

  • A P007B code is frequently set by a simple loose or corroded connector at the CACT sensor, not by a failed sensor itself.
  • Oil contamination from a failing turbocharger can coat the CACT sensor and skew its readings, mimicking an electrical fault.
  • On some vehicles, the CACT sensor is integrated into the charge air cooler or intake manifold, making replacement more labor-intensive than expected.
  • The PCM may set P007B as a result of a boost leak that causes actual charge air temperature to deviate from the modeled value, so always pressure-test the system.
  • Do not overlook ambient temperature sensor faults, as the PCM cross-checks CACT against ambient and intake air temperatures during rationality tests.

Can I keep driving with P007B?

You can generally drive the vehicle with P007B, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing until the fault is repaired, as incorrect charge air temperature readings can lead to reduced power and increased emissions. If the engine enters limp mode or you notice severe power loss, have the vehicle inspected promptly.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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